The place to be Screen!

They say that in recessionary times people like to reminisce more and seek out nostalgic experiences. If you are a current seeker then I would definitely recommend a trip to the traditional 1960’s Screen Cinema on D’Olier Street. The Screen is well known for its choice of obscure, off beat releases and is a haven for those looking for an alternative to the mainstream films.

Temple Bar Hotel recently teamed up with George Hook’s The Right Hook show on Newstalk Radio and Screen Cinema to start a Movie Club. Our first screening was ‘The Damned United’ and while it can't really be categorised as an obscure film, it was very successful. It was the first time I saw a film in the Screen Cinema but I will definitely be returning. It is less than a five minute walk from the hotel which is great as some of the cinema goers came back to Buskers after the film to meet with George Hook and Karl McDermot to discuss movies! We are hoping to have a screening once a month. I will keep you posted!

In this day and age it is rare to find a cinema with the unique charm and personable ambience that the Screen cinema offers. However I must acknowledge that the Screen cinema experience is not for everyone. One of my friends is not a fan, preferring instead the modern Americanised Cineworld on Parnell Street. Admittedly the shabby exterior of the Screen does not look inviting but in my opinion it is not a true representation of the true spirit and charm that awaits you inside……

Walking Time from Temple Bar Hotel to The Screen Cinema - 4 minutes.

Searching for Something Special…..Somewhere Special!

Designer Mart – Cow’s Lane, Temple Bar!

Ever since I was a child I’ve had a fascination with acquiring unique pieces of jewellery. That one off piece that everyone admires but no one else has! It is surprising then that it has taken me so long to discover the Designer Mart in Temple Bar.

The old city area of Temple Bar is the perfect location for the outdoor Designer Mart. Every Saturday from 10am to 5pm, Cow’s Lane is buzzing with talented artists and designers of clothes and jewellery. Amongst the stalls you will discover a diverse mix of handmade jewellery, original fashion creations and an array of art and crafts.

Last Saturday was the perfect day for a browse around the atmospheric Mart. The sun was shining and there was a pleasant breeze. The traders were refreshingly non-intrusive as I browsed their stalls. They chatted easily with those that wanted advice and there seemed to be a sense of community between them as they discussed how business was. As I heard two foreign girls shriek with delight as they looked through a rack of clothes, I felt proud that Irish designers could cause such a reaction! Yes my morning was successful! I purchased a beautiful pair of earrings. My only disappointment was that the Dublin String Quartet weren’t playing! A friend of mine had been lucky enough to hear them play there several weeks previously! Ah well, it’s always good to have an excuse to return!

More more info see http://www.templebar.ie/home_nav_32_m_3.html

Walking Time from Temple Bar Hotel to Cow's Lane - 7 minutes.

Food markets in Temple Bar!

What better way to spend time on a Saturday than to wander through the Food Markets in Temple Bar’s Meeting House Square. It is a must for all foodies! The colour and vibrancy of the markets are a feast for the eyes and give the Square a special atmosphere every Saturday.

On entering the square I am greeted with the aroma of fresh coffee and an espresso is the perfect way to start the day! With so much variety it is difficult to decide what to eat. I do a leisurely lap of the market first so I can acquaint myself with all that is on offer. Samples of olive tapanade, sun dried tomatoes and fresh breads are all enticing. While the smell of the barbequed burgers is mouth watering I decide it is still a little early for a big feed so instead I opt for a freshly made crepe with banana and chocolate. It’s a sunny day and the market is busy without being too crowded so I am content to stroll around whilst eating the crepe. I see there is a lot of people enjoying the fresh oysters at the picnic tables nearby, happily squeezing lemon and splashing Tabasco sauce on them.

There also seems to be quite a few people who look like locals who are doing a weekly shop for organic vegetables and meats. There is a wide smile on my face as I leave the markets with a full belly and continue my exploration of Temple Bar….

For more information on Temple Bar Food markets click on this link http://www.templebar.ie/home_nav_32_m_1.html

Walking Time from Temple Bar Hotel to Meeting House Square - 6 minutes.