JJ’s Irish Restaurant has grown new roots in Adliya’s bustling Block 338. Farah Baig checks out some of its prized items, off their revamped menu, and discovers what she believes are the best sliders she’s ever had!
JJ’s Irish Restaurant has been one of the most popular nightlife and entertainment venues in Bahrain since it opened its doors in 1999. So, it comes as no surprise that when the team briefly closed their doors to work on a fresh venue, their phones, social media and other online platforms were abuzz with patrons asking, “What’s happened to JJ’s?!”
Well, I’m happy to report that JJ’s stunning new venue in Adliya’s Block 338 is now open. The space is spectacular with areas for live entertainment, socialising, a bit of pool and even has its iconic bar from its original venue! What thrilled us, though, is the fact that with the help of its invigorated menu, JJ’s is evolving into an exciting restaurant where you can enjoy a good meal all day!
Chef Nikhil and the rest of the JJ’s team had quite a spectacular spread prepared for us when we’d visited. To start our lunchtime feast, we tucked into Paddy Burke’s Peppers Soup and the Goat Cheese and Kale Salad. We quite enjoyed the punch of the red, yellow and orange peppers, especially with the crunch of the potato shavings that topped it off. The salad, on the other hand, would make a satisfying light meal on its own as it has the perfect balance of flavours and textures with fresh kale, crumbled goat cheese, crushed walnuts, beetroot and just the right amount of dressing.
Next, we were served the Scottish Smoked Salmon on toasted multi-grain bread that the team makes in-house. The smooth flavour of the salmon goes well with the fresh greens and flavourful drizzle of dill mayo. The Potato Skins at JJ’s were phenomenal as they were loaded with chunky beef chilli con carne that was just bursting with flavour as if it had been simmering away for hours.
Who doesn’t love a good platter of Fish and Chips? JJ’s take on the classic dish is beautifully presented with hand cut chips, mushy peas and tartare sauce. The fish is just right – crisp with a sprinkle of sea salt. We soon learnt that the Wicklow Lamb Chops are a must try; they’re meaty and moist, and work well with the sweet crushed carrots and parsnips.
One of my absolute favourite things about my dining experience has to be the delectable sliders. Dare I say… they were the best sliders I’ve ever had. The team has perfected their juicy housemade patties which sit pretty on light toasted Brioche buns and fresh veggies. The flavour of the cheddar cheese, coupled with the truffle mayo was just fantastic! It’s the sort of thing you’d crave in the middle of the week – just perfection!
To top things off, we enjoyed the Chocolate Marbled Mousse Cake which is a delectable combination of white and dark chocolate.
Being an Irish restaurant, JJ’s also serves truly authentic Irish fare including a full Irish breakfast, steak, and a variety of pies that they have perfected! With guaranteed good food and entertainment, we’re positive we’ll be returning to JJ’s every chance we get!
