02/09/2025: The Castel Hostel's evening restaurant. Live music from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Hearty traditional Irish meals with decent wines.
31/07/2025: We booked an afternoon tea for two at 3 PM at The Old Music Shop in Dublin, and from the moment we arrived, we felt genuinely welcomed and cared for.
While booking online, I requested a window table if possible — not only did they accommodate this, but they went above and beyond. We were greeted with a big smile and such a joyful attitude that it set the tone for the entire experience. I had called earlier to say we might be running late, and instead of any stress, they completely reassured us — no pressure, no problem.
The staff was outstanding. They created a warm, personal atmosphere, always making sure we were comfortable and enjoying ourselves. I wish I had caught the names of the team (two hostesses and a host), because they absolutely deserve to be recognized. At one point, the owner, Finn, came over to check on us 🤯 — and we made sure to tell him just how fantastic the team had been.
The room itself, part of The Castle Hotel, is beautifully decorated and has that quiet, timeless charm that makes you want to stay for hours. Natural sunlight poured in through the windows, adding to the peaceful and elegant vibe.
The menu matched exactly what was shown online and exceeded our expectations. We started with a generous selection of flavorful sandwiches, moved on to fresh scones (oh god 😍), and ended with a delightful variety of desserts — chocolate mousse, macarons, and more. The tea and coffee selection was great, and we were even offered free refills after the first round, which was a lovely touch.
We’re not experts, but we’ve had our share of visiting cafes, restaurants, etc. — and this place gave us far more than we expected for the price. Honestly, I’m worried I won’t have such a good experience again for a long, long time. My mother was beyond happy, and I know she’ll treasure this day for years.
A heartfelt thank you to the entire staff for such a memorable evening ❤️ — and to Finn for checking in and making us feel like more than just customers.
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