Back in October new restaurant, Box Burger celebrated their launch night in Bray. Being massive fans of casual dining we were gutted we couldn’t make it. So for Wayne’s birthday we chose to pay a visit. On a chilly Sunday morning we wrapped up and began our journey.Once we arrived in Bray, Box Burger was a short two minute walk from the train station. Its been years since I was last in Bray. The funfair was still there back then!
We had a table booked and we were slightly late but on arrival we received a lovely warm welcome. We were shown to our table which faced the kitchen part of the restaurant. The atmosphere is really laid back, and the seating is so comfortable with a mixture of tables and booths, even bar stools overlooking the kitchen. First thing we checked out was the drinks menu. They literally have something for everyone, from craft beer to cocktails and everything in between. Of course we ordered craft beers while we chose our food, Wicklow Wolf Amber for me and O Brother Chancer for the birthday boy. Both breweries which are Bray natives so it was only fitting we had these.
A few days beforehand I browsed the menu on their website, which you can view here, and already knew what I was going to order. After skipping breakfast we ordered a feast. We started with their buffalo chicken wings which we decided to share a portion of. There were served with a lovely blue cheese dip which I could drink by the bucket load.
My eyes nearly popped out of my head when my burger arrived. I decided on the blue cheese burger. After dreaming of this for days it didn’t disappoint, a beef pattie served on a steamed brioche bun loaded with lettuce, onion, ketchup and mayo, mustard and pickle with a generous helping of blue cheese and even bacon. A tower of tasty heaven! For my side I ordered dirty fries, covered in pepper sauce and bacon! Absolutely delicious.
Wayne chose the Mac & Cheese. Who knew this could be so tasty, a burger with mac&cheese topped with american cheddar. I had burger envy! In hindsight we should have cut them both down the middle and had a half of each. He ordered the box fries as his side. Fries covered in chicken gravy, onion and cheese. Not my cup of tea at all but he enjoyed them (northern boys love their gravy chips) Needless to say we devoured our food.
After the mains settled the waitress offered the dessert menu and literally sold us on the mini donuts. These were little rings of sugary goodness sprinkled in cinnamon and drizzled in chocolate sauce. These were served with soft ice cream. We both agreed we’d come back for those alone! This is a dessert made for sharing/fighting over!
We enjoyed our experience so much. The staff were all so friendly and the food was delicious. If you haven’t tried it out what on earth are you waiting for!!
We finished our day off in Bray with a flying visit to The Harbour Bar. They were having a growler weekend. When we arrived we spotted young Barry from O Brother brewing doing a tasting. Also Simon from Wicklow Wolf was floating around with samples of their Amber Ale and Elevation IPA. I spotted a sign for hot cider so I couldn’t resist ordering one from Kym. The cider used was from Craigies, another Wicklow native! A perfect way to thaw out on what was a freezing day.
We enjoyed a few glasses of beer and a chat with the brewers before we got to take a growler away. We chose The Chancer from O Brother. It didn’t last long, we opened it straight away when we got home. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day and definitely worth the trip. We can’t wait to return.
Irish Beer Snob 