Kicky’s Founders to Reimagine Dublin’s Bang restaurant with Iberian Flair
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A new chapter is beginning for one of Dublin’s long-standing culinary institutions as the team behind the acclaimed Kicky’s restaurant prepares to take the helm at Bang on Merrion Row.
The duo, Eric Matthews and Richie Barrett, are set to revitalize the restaurant, retaining the Bang name while introducing an Iberian-inspired menu centered around small plates, shared dishes, and open-fire cooking. The revamped bang is slated to open on January 19th, marking a significant evolution for the establishment first launched in 1999 by Simon and Christian Stokes.
A Full-Circle Moment for the Culinary Pair
The takeover represents a unique homecoming for Matthews and Barrett, who first crossed paths while working at Bang years ago. Matthews, who was early in his chef career at the time, and Barrett, learning the ropes in his family’s hospitality business – than run by his father, Joe Barrett – will now steer the restaurant’s future.
“We have a proven track record,” stated Matthews, who will serve as chef director overseeing both Kicky’s and Bang, and mentoring both culinary teams. Barrett will assume the role of director of operations, focusing on wine, cocktails, and enhancing the overall customer experiance.
Reinventing the Bang Experience
The partners envision a more approachable and relaxed atmosphere at Bang. “More open, pleasant and less stiff” is how Matthews described their vision, adding that the restaurant will undergo a “cosmetic facelift” to facilitate a range of dining experiences across its three levels.
The ground floor will feature a six-seat counter overlooking the kitchen, designed to create a “more open and fun” experience. The basement will offer “intimate” booth seating, catering to smaller groups, a shift from Bang’s conventional larger party bookings. The upstairs dining room will be reserved for private events and dining, with a long-covered ironwork staircase to be restored to its original state. The overall capacity will be slightly reduced to approximately 90 seats.
To maintain a cohesive aesthetic, Matthews and Barrett will collaborate with the same architecture firm – 21 Spaces – that designed Kicky’s. They also plan to showcase the work of emerging artists, continuing a tradition established at Kicky’s with artist Leah Hewson.
Iberian Flavors and Irish Producers
The new-look Bang will build upon the success of Kicky’s, known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and commitment to quality ingredients. The restaurant will continue to source from the same fine Irish producers as Kicky’s, while introducing house-created cocktails and a carefully curated wine list with a focus on family-run vineyards from Spain and Portugal.
Dinner service will be offered from Monday to Saturday, with lunch available from Wednesday to Saturday. Barrett indicated that Saturdays will likely feature all-day service, eliminating the need for multiple seatings. Reservations will open on December 22nd, with the existing Bang operating as usual through the end of the year.
Building on Kicky’s Success
The expansion comes on the heels of a successful two-year run for Kicky’s, which has consistently seen weekends booked weeks in advance and recently added a Wednesday lunch service to meet growing demand.
“We are always seeking new ways to improve the offering in Kicky’s and are laser-focused on driving the business forward in 2026 and beyond,” Barrett said. Matthews echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the venture involves “sticking more money in and having to take a bit of a risk,” but emphasizing their confidence in the project.”it’s something I’ve dreamt of,” he added, expressing gratitude to the Kicky’s team for their support.
