Brunch or lunch? On The Pig's Back is perfect!
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| Croque |
Ar muin na muice
Last Tuesday, I was ar muin na muice! If you’re Irish, you’ve probably guessed it, maybe even remembered it from your schooldays. Ar muin na muice translates literally to on the pig’s back and that is usually taken to mean the rider is doing very well indeed. And as it happens, On The Pig’s Back, in both the English Market and at the Douglas restaurant cum shop, is indeed doing very well.
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| Top of the Croque |
Step into On The Pig's Back and be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The high-ceilinged dining room is filled with natural light and adorned with charming décor including a changing selection of paintings by local artists. Whether you're seeking brunch or lunch, On the Pig’s Back provides the perfect setting.
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| Oeufs Pochés à la Bretonne. Oh la la! |
A Culinary Journey
The menu at On The Pig's Back is a feast for the senses. From classic French dishes to innovative creations, there's something to tempt every palate. Choices galore then and we settled on the
- Croque Madame: with Arbutus brioche, ham, Emmental cheese, Mornay sauce, and a fried egg. A superb version of French classic.
- Oeufs Pochés à la Bretonne: Poached Eggs served over Artichoke Hearts and Fried Ham with Toasted Arbutus Sourdough Bread & Topped with Butter and Cais na Tire cheese. A very satisfying plateful indeed.
Among others that tempted us and that may well draw us back were:
- Quiche au Saumon: A flaky quiche filled with salmon and leeks, served with lemon aioli and crisp leaves.
- Peppered Smoked Mackerel Nicoise Salad: A refreshing salad packed with flavour, featuring mixed leaves, boiled eggs, olives, French beans, tomato, and Ballycotton peppered smoked mackerel.
Specials on the day were
Salad: Hot Spanish Chorizo and Roasted Potato Salad with Mixed Leaves, Red Onions, Fried Almonds and Tossed in a Roast Garlic Dressing.
Hot Special: Flaked Natural Smoked Haddock with Poached Eggs on Sourdough Toast, Topped with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Beyond the Food
On The Pig's Back is more than just a restaurant. It's a destination for food lovers and those seeking a taste of French cuisine in Cork. The café and deli offer a wide range of artisan food products, including cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh bread and, on the way out, we bought a couple of mini-quiches (Chorizo, Sweet Potato, Tomato & Emmental Cheese, in savoury free range egg custard shortcrust pastry) and enjoyed the delicious treat for supper that evening.
And being French there is wine, of course, quite a selection. They also do a small range of non-alcoholic drinks including the outstanding Stonewell Cider. Quite a few soft drinks as well including the super refreshing Elderflower (with Raspberry) Juice by D.P. Connolly that I enjoyed with my meal.
Their equally distinctive breakfast is served from 9.30am to 11.30am and then lunch kicks in! Bon appetite!
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| Selection of salads at the deli counter. |
A Culinary Experience Not to Be Missed
Founded in 1992 by Frenchwoman Isabelle Sheridan, On The Pig’s Back has a major presence in Cork and indeed in the wider food scene, coupling the best of local produce with an undoubted French Flair. Irish Fayre with French Flair, as they say themselves.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, On The Pig's Back in Douglas is a must-visit destination. With its delicious food, charming atmosphere, and commitment to quality, it's no wonder this restaurant has become a beloved institution in Cork.
They also have a thriving stall in the English Market, Isabelle’s original venture. There is no café here but you will find Farmhouse Cheeses (huge selection), Charcuterie, Fresh Breads, Irish Artisan Food, and French Gourmet Food Specialities and more, including some of their own produce such as award-winning Pâté and Terrines.
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