BIG MIKE’S The unstoppable Gareth ‘Gaz’ Smith went large in spectacular fashion when his couple of restaurants became a “throuple” upon spotting an eyecatching location on the corner of Blackrock Shopping Centre. With a fab terrace, a full licence and upcoming Champagne pop-ups for summer, this is where it’s all happening in SoCoDu. Not one for small-plate tasting menus, Gaz, with Peter Byrne at the stove, delivers superb seafood platters and unbeatable steaks. With Nick Munier and Keith Hallissey on floor, it’s fun all the way. Great cocktails, too. michaels.ie
Everyone has a story and, often, it’s a story that lies buried deep within for many years, concealed behind the smiles and laughter of getting on with life and putting on a good face.