The Unicorn

Yes, The Unicorn is often recommended for date night thanks to its intimate, romantic atmosphere, attentive staff and strong Italian menu. Many guests praise the food, wine list and the terrace for sunny lunches. Be aware some guests report inconsistent service, occasional loud music or chilly tables near doors, so ask for a cozy table and mention any preferences when booking to get the best experience.

Portions at The Unicorn tend to be moderate and typical of contemporary Italian dining, satisfying but not overly large. Guests often mention generous pastas, well-portioned mains like filletto di manzo and risottos, while some highlighted smaller items (a small burrata) or shared plates for lighter lunches. If you’re especially hungry, consider adding a side or sharing a starter and main.

Yes, The Unicorn has a wine list and serves cocktails. Guests frequently praise the wine selection and mention Bellinis, Prosecco and after-dinner drinks, though a few guests found some wines or sparkling options temporarily unavailable. If a specific bottle or cocktail matters to you, call ahead to confirm availability.

Guests frequently praise the pasta and seafood dishes, highlights mentioned include the wild mushroom and truffle risotto, prawn linguine, scallops (capesante) and hake dishes. The fillet of Irish dry-aged beef and the ragu (including Wicklow lamb ragu) also get strong mentions. If you’re unsure, ask staff for their nightly specials or the manager’s recommendation.

The Unicorn welcomes families and accommodates larger parties, and guests often celebrate birthdays and family lunches there. Seating includes an intimate dining room and the popular terrace for al fresco dining. There’s no specific public detail about wheelchair access or dedicated family seating, so if accessibility needs are important, call ahead to confirm accessible tables or arrangements.

For a relaxed experience try weekday lunch or an early weekday evening, many guests praise quieter midweek lunches and leisurely terrace dining. Weekend evenings and match days can be buzzy and busier; if you prefer calmer dining, avoid peak weekend nights or major rugby match times and request a quieter table when booking.

The atmosphere is generally intimate and buzzy with a warm Italian feel, many guests praise the friendly staff and romantic music. Experiences vary: some guests note loud, club-like music or pounding bass on certain nights, chilly spots near doors, or unfinished décor. Overall it’s a charming spot with lively energy; specify preferences (music level, table location) when booking for your ideal experience.

The dress code is smart casual. Guests typically come in neat, relaxed attire suitable for an elegant-casual Italian restaurant on Merrion Square.

Yes, the restaurant encourages guests to call if their preferred time isn't available and offers an online waitlist. Guests commonly add booking notes (for celebrations, seating preferences), though one review noted a note had been missed, so calling ahead to confirm special requests (birthday candles, dietary needs, seating) is recommended for peace of mind.

Yes, the Unicorn offers an online waitlist and asks guests to call if their preferred time isn't available. This makes it easy to join the next available table during busy periods.

Busiest: weekend evenings and rugby match days (guests often mention a lively, packed room on match days). Quietest: weekday lunches and early weekday evenings tend to be calmer, many guests recommend a midweek lunch for a relaxed experience. If you prefer quiet, avoid match days and peak weekend dinner times.

Midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) is often the best choice: lunch or early evening visits receive consistently positive feedback for relaxed service and quieter atmosphere. Weekend evenings can be lively and buzzy if you want energy, but they’re more likely to be busy or noisier.

Yes, The Unicorn has a much‑loved terrace for al fresco dining, often highlighted for sunny lunches and relaxed outdoor meals. Guests enjoyed dining on the terrace and opening patio doors on warm days; mention terrace seating when booking if you prefer outdoor tables.

Yes, guests mention good-value set lunch options and the restaurant offers a Set Dinner Menu (starter, main, dessert). Reviews frequently praise set lunch value and occasional special touches for celebrations (complimentary desserts or coffee). For seasonal promotions or special events, call the restaurant or check their site.

The Unicorn is rated 3.9 stars by 120 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.