Mulligans is the newly-opened pub in Sandymount village. As you enter the brasserie-style front bar at lunchtime, the atmosphere is calm and comfortable.

We seated ourselves in the back section, which is wood-panelled and where there is a screen for the matches, a fireplace and a baby grand piano. The couches are leather, it is not too bright, and outside through the glass is the smoking patio.

The soup of the day is minestrone to an original recipe. It is a deep, hearty tomato and basil soup with plenty of pasta and vegetable. We are served by a friendly, efficient young lady from Wicklow.

At the tables are quietly-spoken patrons and the music is nice and low. My Chicken Boxty came with a thick pancake, and with its thick roasted pieces of chicken in a creamy smoked bacon and leek sauce was very tasty and had been made with flair. The side salad was mixed leaves dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette which complemented the boxty very well.

Stephanie had the Steak Emmenthal, which is a succulent minute steak with emmenthal cheese served on ciabatta. Also on the menu was Irish stew, smoked salmon, bagels and sandwiches. There is a special brunch menu for weekends (12pm-5pm).

We were pleased to see an extensive wine list with a lot of wines available by the glass and a menu for cocktails and top shelf liquors. We decided that we would come back for the live jazz session on Sunday at 5 pm.

We shared a dessert, a light strawberry cheesecake drizzled with raspberry coulis. We had our coffees outside on the patio which, despite the chilly day, was comfortable.

Lunch came to €40 (including a gratuity) which was very good value for one soup, two mains, one dessert, sparkling water and two coffees, stylish and comfortable surroundings and great service.