Parnell Rise is home to a handful of establishments offering some of the finest fare. It’s burgeoning with choices to suit almost any penchant, yet food that takes influence from the Mediterranean islands of Greece seems to be lacking. Gerome, the new kid on the block — taking the place of the famous Iguaçu — is changing that.

From the footpath outside, it’s nothing short of enticing with a large windowed front and the grand old tree that is a remnant of the former restaurant. With no intention of transporting you to Santorini, the interior has been expertly curated by Paul Izzard Design and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were at a 1920s cocktail bar in the heart of New York City, albeit even more glamorous. With plush teal velvet furnishings, gold brass fittings and deep grey leather features throughout, the bar, perfectly placed down the centre of the room, is surrounded by booth style seating. The mezzanine upstairs provides further space for diners and a large deck with retractable awnings — ensuring a failsafe spot to enjoy a beverage year-round — and should you need somewhere a little cosier, an intimate private dining room awaits.

The seasonal menu is designed for sharing and boasts bountiful offerings from the sea to the land. Our favourite came from the ‘raw bar’; the lakerda of market fish (Trevally crudo) with avocado sorbet, chilli, coriander and bergamot. The shoulder of lamb with tahini yoghurt, pine nuts, compressed watermelon and mustard leaf didn’t disappoint either. And I’d go on, but you really need to let your taste buds explore Gerome’s menu for themselves — we recommend taking a few friends to ensure extensive sampling.

Gerome will be open for lunch and dinner with its first official service tonight (Wednesday 12th April).

Opening 7 days, 11.30am till late