Avenue Cafe & Restaurant , Maynooth

We had a group booking of 20 people on a Saturday night in the Avenue and while the food was good, the service was not great. The table wasn't ready when we arrived and we were left standing waiting in the crowded hallway for over 20 minutes. The service was slow and half of the group were served first and had finished main courses before the other half of the table even received theirs. We were there for a birthday and the staff forgot to bring out the birthday cake after dessert and we had to eventually ask for them to bring it out. The food was good in general, with a good selection to choose from on the set menu. All starters and desserts were very good. The rib eye steaks had a good flavour but were a bit too grizzly. Prices were reasonable.

Four of us went without reservation - we were given a table upstairs - no problem. welcome by staff supberb, one had starter twice cooked pork with prawns beautifully presented and taste supberb Two had fish pie, one had shank of lamb and one had chicken. No fault here lamb beautifully presented fell off the bone and melted in the mouth. Girls said their fish pie was "To Die for" Chicken dish faultless also. The three girls shared a sticky toffee pudding which they throughly enjoyed - definetly a restaurant to recommend and visit again - well done to all concerned

I have visited this restaurant on numerous occasions (probably around 10-12 times) so thought that I'd submit a review. Firstly, book your table as this place is always busy and can be difficult to just walk in and expect a table. Myself and my friends like to meet here on a Tuesday evening and eat from the "Ladies Menu" It offers good value for money and you get a free glass of vino.The standard evening menu is also very nice so I sometimes order from that one even though it works out more expensive. My favourite starters have been the deep fried brie and the spinach salad. Both very tasty and generously sized. I've also had their risotto, lovely but very filling. Their fish pie is amazing, piping hot and very tasty, this is probably my favourite dish. I have also had their veggi burger, nice but slightly on the dry side I thought. Their merigune mess is to die for. Its just an Eton mess but is light and very tasty. In relation to the restaurant, I've sat both upstairs and downstairs. If you are going as a couple or a very small group downstairs in generally quieter and hence it's easier to talk. Upstairs can be noisy as its usually full of large groups. The decor is basic enough but warm and modern. Staff are attentive and friendly and I will definitely return.