Winding Stair

Chef Aine Maguire is one of the rising stars of the Irish food scene (a fact that Michelin recognized by awarding The Winding Stair its Bib Gourmand in 2008). And his nouveau take on traditional Irish food is perfectly showcased in this tall-windowed space fronting the Liffey—Dublin’s most up-and-coming neighborhood. Maguire uses native produce in dishes like fried Clonakilty black pudding and a tart made with local parsnips, shallots, and Gubbeen cheese. His version of corned beef, served with crispy cabbage, horseradish mash, and mustard sauce, may even convince the old guard that newer can be better. Oh, and did we mention the near-perfect selection of beers?