Restaurant Review: Le Pain Quotidien - Kildare's best kept secret

By Senan Hogan

Foodie friends had raved about Le Pain Quotidien in Kildare Village for several months but I had never been until last Saturday.

The European cuisine restaurant was bustling with afternoon shoppers and casual diners looking for the lovingly produced organic food the venue is famous for.

Le Pain Quotidien (The Daily Bread) is a Belgian bakery and restaurant offering simple and wholesome food, made with organic and local ingredients. More than 150 ingredients on the restaurant's menus are sourced from local Irish producers.

There are over 200 restaurants around the world but just one restaurant in Ireland to date. The restaurant boasts a 190-seat restaurant and a 50-seat outdoor terrace section for al fresco dining.

And it's right on our doorstep in the Kildare Village Outlet where it will be celebrating its first birthday on October 27 when customers will be treated to hot beverages costing just €1 all day.

A varied daily menu at LPQ includes hot breakfasts, signature tartines, salads, frittatas and sharing platters. Customer favourites are the wholesome Irish beef stew, juicy rump steak, sea bass and for dessert - organic ice cream.

There is also the option of a 2 course set menu for €14.95 which offers great value.

A jazz singer every Thursday has become a regular event for new and existing customers.

Starter

My companion went for a more seasonal option and opted for the Organic Soup of the Day which was a steamy blend of Carrot, Honey and Thyme served with a slice of sourdough bread & a slice of crusty baguette.

Main Course

My dining partner ordered the vegan Chilli Sin Carne (below) made from soybean, onion, chilli and served with fresh guacamole, soya sour cream, diced tomatoes and spring onions.

Dessert

Coffee bowls

Two Americanos served in LPQ's signature bowls rounded off a very pleasant dining experience.

LPQ may be Kildare's best-kept secret but some things in life are too good to keep to yourself!

FACT PANEL

Every month Le Pain Quotidien hosts numerous events including Supper Clubs, Baking Classes & Demonstrations. The next Baking class is Wednesday November 2

The theme of November supper club is “Winter Feast” on Thursday, November 3. All enquiries at 045 499190 or [email protected]

LPQ has late opening hours until 7pm and 8pm in the evening and will soon have extended Christmas hours too.

A private dining area upstairs is currently available for hire for business events or family celebrations such as Holy Communions, Confirmations or small weddings.

The restaurant has also developed a catering menu for external clients featuring an attractive range of mini baguettes, tartines and pastries to offer local businesses when hosting meetings and product launches.