5 things we want to eat in Dublin this week

Silly season has landed, and while we prefer to hibernate over all the partying at this time of year, us gals and guys still have to eat. So IF we were out on the town this week, THIS is what we'd be racing for...

1) All the winter treats, OMMA

OMMA matcha bar in BT's have just launched a new winter treats menu with chef Maeve Scully and wait till you get a load of this. Toasted miso banana bread with mascarpone cinnamon cream and miso caramel; Matcha white chocolate almond brownies; Mandarin daifuku with rice coating; and Dorayaki pancakes filled with red bean paste. There's also hojicha and matcha basque cheesecakes from Coconut and Moo Moo, and there's no way you'll be able to pick just one so go hungry and not on your own.

2) Salt & chilli chicken skin, Chubby's

There is not enough standalone chicken skin on Dublin menus, and Chubby's are attempting to right that wrong with this salt and chilli chicken skin that they trialled last week. Served in a little takeaway bag "for cuteness" they say it's banging and hits the menu proper this week. You do still have the Herculean task of getting a table though...

3) Hot honey chicken burger, Soup DL

Soup in Dun Laoghaire might be better known for ramen than chicken burgers, but this temporary special went down so well it's just gone permanent, and that's enough to pique our interest. The crispy chicken burger is basted in hot honey sauce, with Gouda, fermented red cabbage, baby cos lettuce and gochujang mayo, and is served with togarashi spiced fries. They had us at hot honey...

4) Croquetas de carne mechada, Table 45

This time of year can get very samey when it comes to food (we've well and truly had our fill of Christmas sandwiches at this stage), so if you're feeling jaded with all the turkey and ham around, head to Table 45 for one of their "non-traditional Christmas specials". Their croquetas de carne mechada are filled with slow-braised Irish beef and served over frijoles refritos (refried pinto beans) with cheese foam and shredded carrots for all the texture, and none of the cranberry sauce.

5) Lambay crab claws with smoked tomato, chilli and garlic, Mister S

Mister S are never.not.bringing.it. and their latest thirst trap is these Lambay crab claws with smoked tomato, confit chilli and garlic butter. The butter is actually infused with house-smoked tomato water, roasted red pepper, garlic and chilli, lifted with lemon juice, sherry vinegar and espelette pepper. Have you ever heard a more beautiful description?