Even though Bach 16 has only been open a few short weeks, it’s difficult to remember what Dublin city did without it. This intimate wine bar is located along Dublin’s famous Bachelor’s Walk right in the heart of the city centre – a prime location between O’Connell and Ha’penny bridge. The name itself, ‘Bach 16’ comes from a clever combination of the address (16 Bachelor’s Walk) and Baroque composer Bach’s sixteenth symphony. Two silhouette portraits pay homage to the composer – a small part of the homely and pleasant décor.
I went to Bach 16 for the first time on New Year’s Eve with a group of friends. We reserved a table as the bar is small, which is something I really loved about it – it’s perfect for lunch, dinner or light bites with friends and family, and intimate enough that you can actually hear them. When we arrived, the place was more or less full and we were warmly welcomed by the very friendly owners at Bach 16, Caroline, Edward and Leeann. I felt instantly relaxed among the charming ‘Old World’ setting of soft golden lighting and brick walls, and the glow of the fairy lights hanging the windows brightened up the wet and windy night outside. The shelves are home to a selection of boardgames if you’re feeling competitive, or you can admire the beautifully striking paintings created by both Caroline’s Mother and sister. The saturated hues truly add character and romance to this little treasure.
We sat in our candlelight corner on plump pillows, happily perusing the wine menu. Caroline was on hand to assist and provide us with some well informed and confident recommendations, and we decided on the Pinot Grigio and the Tempranillo which we were very happy with. My favourite came later on, which was Caroline’s recommendation of the Gouguenheim malbec from Argentina. The wine menu is very well price and varied with a very good selection of red and white wines, and includes a selection of rosé, champagne, prosecco and port.
We ordered a few sharing plates – hummus, tapenade and Italian pate with crackers and cranberry relish. All were simple dishes but were incredibly fresh and flavoursome. The hummus was some of the best I’ve ever tasted. The menu includes sandwiches and soups, salads, pizzas, meat and cheese boards and of course desserts. Ingredients used are fresh, local and again great value. There is something on the menu that everyone can enjoy. The team at Bach 16 are also passionate about coffee, so you could always stop by for a strong espresso or frothy cappuccino and soak up the atmosphere (perhaps accompanied by a sneaky dessert?)
Thanks a million to Ed, Leeann and Caroline who looked after us incredibly well on one of the busiest nights of the year. The fantastic trio of best friends (who clearly love working together which is great to see!) know exactly how to look after their customers which is what makes this new venture so successful. Throughout the night they were attentive, regularly checking up on us ensuring we had everything we needed.
Bach 16 offers free WiFi to all customers, and the team also cater for private events. More information about Bach 16 can be found on their website. Keep an eye out for wine tasting classes, dates available soon.
Book a table now, as I have a feeling a lot of happy customers will be Bach in no time!
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