Dublin’s dining scene is set for an exciting new addition as Michelin-starred favourite Variety Jones prepares to launch a brand-new restaurant concept, Mongoose, in the heart of the Liberties.

The new venture comes from chef Keelan Higgs, who co-founded Variety Jones with his brother Aaron in 2018. Since then, the restaurant has become one of Dublin’s most celebrated dining destinations, earning and retaining a Michelin star every year since 2019.

Mongoose will open in the original Variety Jones space on 78 Thomas Street, which became available following the restaurant’s move next door to No.79 after a fire in 2023.

Rather than replicating the tasting menu format that has defined Variety Jones, the new concept is set to offer something distinctly different

Higgs has described Mongoose as a more casual, accessible and affordable dining experience, with a focus on simple, flavour-led dishes and an à la carte menu.

The opening menu keeps things simple but seriously appealing, with dishes like ox tongue with green sauce, grilled squid with romesco and braised artichokes to start. Pasta looks like a big focus, with dishes such as sausage and fennel ragù fettuccine, parmesan agnolotti and gnocchi with nduja and peas alongside mains like porchetta, whole chicken to share and braised lamb neck.

To finish, it’s a short and sweet list including orange cake with milk ice cream and cheese.

Mongoose officially opens on Sunday 26th April and you can book online here.