Joe Barrett has been in the restaurant business for most of his working life. He has been owner of BANG Restaurant and Bar since 2010. Joe is passionate about using only the best fresh & local ingredients, offering exceptional value to customers and providing a fun & lighthearted dining experience. On a visit to BANG you can expect Irish ingredients, carefully sourced and innovatively prepared, in a small, unique and stylish venue.

In the interests of getting to know Joe better, we popped a few quick-fire questions.

1. Hey Joe! For starters, tell us who your queer icon is and why?

It’s Panti. Her speech at the Abbey was so moving and so true, and for everything Rory has done to fight oppression – he’s brilliant.

2. Line up your ideal party of five, living or dead?

Bowie, because he was a genius and I grew up listening to him. Bette Midler because I’ve loved her ever since I saw Delores DeLago live. Leo Varadkar, because he’s new generation leadership, and it’s about time; Rihanna because she’s so full on; and Stephen Fry for some after-dinner blasphemy.

3. What would be on the menu? AND What course/gift would they bring?

Dooncastle Oysters (lots of them!), roast chicken (my mother’s recipe, because it’s the best), vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate sauce. 

I would like Bowie to perform. Bette to do her Delores Delago impression. Stephen to blow our minds. Leo can brings us the answer. Rihanna – that thing with the umbrella – ella -ella.

4. Your favourite place to eat, other than your own, in Dublin?

Our neighbour’s, Etto  – amazing food, great craic, and always an amazing experience.  Highly recommended.

5. What/Who or Where is rocking your world in restaurants right now and why?

I love Portland Restaurant in London. Approachable Michelin quality food. Unpretentious cooking. One of my favourite and most unexpected dining experiences in the last 12 months. 

6. What’s the shadiest thing you’ve seen/overheard in your Restaurant?

See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil. After years in this industry I assure you I am very discreet. Don’t ask, don’t tell. 

BANG Restaurant & Bar, 11 Merrion Row, Dublin 2, (01) 400 4229, www.bangrestaurant.com

Don’t forget to mention #PT when booking online between now and September 22nd and you can enjoy the pre-theatre menu at any time of the week / evening.