John McMurtry, editor of popular Ulster Rugby Fanzine The FRU recently checked out the Europa’s recently refurbished restaurant, The Causerie, on behalf of InTouch Rugby.
Situated on the ground floor The Causerie is a more informal dining option than the famous Piano Bar Restaurant and offers open dining with a window view onto the busy Great Victoria Street or more secluded seating towards the back.
This bustling contemporary bistro has a wide choice of menus available for both lunch and dinner, comprising of snacks, light meals, full meals and daily specials making it the ideal stop before a show at the nearby Opera House.
Despite the restaurant being busy we were warmly greeted by the friendly staff and shown to our table where we reviewed the extensive, and reasonably priced, menu.
I went for the starter of Tomato and Fire Roasted Pepper Crostini and my guest choose the Soup of the Day (Mushroom). Both were excellent.
For the main course we tried the Spiced Meatballs and the Salmon which arrived promptly. Both meals were well presented, the portion sizes were just right and I particularly enjoyed the beef meatballs in their spicy tomato sauce.
Dessert consisted of Apple Pie with Ice Cream and Custard Sauce and large selection of Irish Cheese’s with Crackers and Chutney, the perfect way to finish off our meal.
The food and the service were top quality in a friendly and relaxing setting. Our biggest surprise was the bill as it came in at less than £40.
We’ll definitely be back.
