Stepping into Dunne and Crescenzi off Frederick street is like stepping into a restaurant down a side street off Campo di Fiori in Rome. It could be World War Three outside but D & C set their relaxing pace and it is infectious.

There is always a mixture of clientele: college-goers eating a panini reading their book, shoppers eating cornetto con crema sipping espresso, young families eating a leisurely afternoon lunch and even sophisticated theatregoers grabbing an aperitif before moving on into the night. The great thing is that everyone is welcome, and nobody feels out of place. Like all Italian eateries, the surroundings are sexy and classically Italian. Vintage wines line the walls on wooden shelving up to the ceiling. Friendly Italian staff are on hand to meet and greet and lead you to your table. You will find yourself gawking at the appealing plates of your co-diners before sitting down. The menu will confirm your thoughts and decisions won’t be easy to make.

D & C cater to those who want a small snack such as olives and bruschetta or lunch such as panini and soup and if you have your eye on a hearty carbonara or Bolognese, there are plenty of pasta related dishes to choose from. Needless to say, the wine list is equally extensive. D & C is also a nice place to come and share some wine with friends over a cheeseboard. While it is busy and you might sometimes have to wait a few minutes for a table at certain points during the day, you won’t be rushed out the door and you will feel your custom is appreciated.

Dunne and Crescenzi don’t scrimp on the food or the details, and even when going to pay, you will be hypnotised by their bar made of wine corks and might just stay for one more Chianti when you receive your unexpected change.

Dunne & Crescenzi, Frederick Street, Dublin 2 & Sandymount, Dublin 4.