Brownes Dublin by Angela Moore

Brownes is on the verge, possibly, of being Dublin’s best townhouse hotel. It has been taken over by the Stein Group, who own the exquisite Durley House in London and a stylish stable of hotels in Spain. They are planning a complete overhaul of the hotel to bring it in line with their high standards – watch this space in September 2005. At the moment, it’s pleasant and enjoyable with some lovely touches but does not feel particularly special or luxurious.

From the outside, Brownes looks just right: a rare slice of elegant Georgian Dublin on St Stephens Green. The door stands open in a welcoming manner – mainly because the hotel also operates a very fashionable, very serious, very busy brasserie-style restaurant. This is heavily booked for both lunch and dinner, which explains the smell of cooking in the hall (delicious, but…)

It also explains the traffic in and out of the hotel – and there’s lots of it. The little sitting room leads through to the restaurant, and people tend to congregate here for aperitifs, so that while it is beautifully appointed it is neither peaceful nor private.

With a few exceptions, such as the excellent Juan, the mainly Spanish staff is friendly and welcoming but occasionally bemused. We got a few blank stares when we tried to pay a phone bill, book a taxi and once just go upstairs.

The rooms
Upstairs is far more peaceful. When we stayed, there was not a hint of restaurant noise and effective double-glazing negates traffic sound. Brownes has just eleven rooms. Doubles are very spacious, well proportioned, with large four-poster beds, hung with a floral trim - very comfortable. Most have views out over the Green. The hotel is dressed in period clothing – ornate wallpaper to match the heavy gilt frames, large curlicued mirrors, low chintzy stools. Bathrooms are let down by showers over shallow plasticky tubs. It’s low-key and well-maintained but feels a little unloved and uninspired.

A good refurbishment, a cash injection and some love will make all the difference to this hotel. Until then, you’re guaranteed an excellent meal and a comfortable night’s sleep but no magic.

Come for:
- Dinner

Not suitable for:
- Those seeking peace and privacy