I’ve always loved basement restaurants. Whether over a long lunch or a late-night dinner, they lend that secret hideaway feel, cocooning and cushioning you from the real world. The clientele is always interesting too and tends to be the bon viveurs of life, eschewing stark trendy spaces in favour of la dolce vita. In fact, three of Dublin’s best restaurants are located beneath the magnificent Georgian houses of Dublin 2. All three are independently owned, and all have stood the test of time for a reason — they’re plush and lush, and, with the festive season approaching, they’re ideal for that special treat.