Dublin’s dining scene is about to get a serious remix. Eric Matthews and Richie Barrett, the team behind the critically acclaimed Kicky’s, are taking the reins of Merrion Row institution Bang, marking a fascinating full-circle moment and a potential power play in the city’s competitive restaurant landscape. This isn’t just a changing of the guard; it’s a strategic acquisition signaling confidence – and a willingness to take risks – in a market increasingly hungry for experiential dining.
- The duo, who originally met *while working at Bang*, are essentially returning to their roots, but with a significantly elevated profile thanks to Kicky’s success.
- The revamp will lean into Iberian-inspired small plates and open-fire cooking, a trend that continues to dominate upscale casual dining globally.
- Capacity will be slightly reduced, prioritizing a more intimate and curated experience over high-volume turnover.
The story here isn’t just about a restaurant changing hands. It’s about the savvy maneuvering of two chefs who clearly understand the current zeitgeist. Matthews, fresh off his tenure at Michelin-starred Chapter One, and Barrett, with a strong wine pedigree from Bang itself and other notable establishments, aren’t simply inheriting a space; they’re inheriting a legacy. Bang, established in 1999, carries a certain weight, a reputation for being…well, a bit “stiff,” as Matthews puts it. The planned “cosmetic facelift” and shift towards a “more open, friendly” atmosphere is a deliberate attempt to shed that skin and appeal to a younger, more Instagram-driven demographic – a demographic Kicky’s has already demonstrably captured.
The Iberian focus is also a smart move. Spanish and Portuguese cuisine are having a moment, offering a vibrant alternative to the often-predictable Italian and French influences. The emphasis on sharing plates and open-fire cooking taps into the desire for communal dining experiences and a sense of theatricality. It’s a performance, and these two clearly understand the importance of staging.
The fact that business is already “strong” at Kicky’s, with weekends booked weeks in advance, provides a solid foundation for this expansion. It allows Matthews and Barrett to approach Bang not out of necessity, but from a position of strength and creative ambition. This isn’t a rescue mission; it’s a calculated expansion of a successful brand. The decision to open bookings on December 22nd is a classic pre-holiday push, capitalizing on the festive season and generating early buzz.
Looking ahead, the success of this venture will hinge on their ability to replicate the “fun” and “relaxed” atmosphere of Kicky’s while simultaneously respecting the history of Bang. It’s a delicate balancing act, but if Matthews and Barrett can pull it off, they’ll cement their position as two of Dublin’s most influential culinary forces. And, crucially, they’ll demonstrate a keen understanding of how to navigate the ever-evolving demands of the modern dining scene.
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