YiBU by Janet, a new Chinese restaurant located inside the Arthaus Hotel on Mercer Street Lower in Dublin 2, has expanded its seating area into its daytime cafe space to accommodate high customer demand, according to a review published by The Irish Times.
Restaurant Concept and Expansion
Jianan Liu, known professionally as Janet, opened YiBU by Janet in mid-June in partnership with Michael Piwnik of Smokin Bones, after leasing the space from the Arthaus Hotel, as reported by The Irish Times. The establishment features a dual-concept layout, with a daytime cafe fronting Mercer Street and a restaurant around the corner on York Street that includes dramatic lighting, bronze ceiling mobiles, and a caramel leather bar. Due to strong popularity since the June opening, the daytime cafe now converts into an evening dining room.
Menu Offerings and Signature Dishes
The menu ranges across various regional Chinese styles, utilizing what chef Janet describes as a “free style” approach to classic recipes. According to The Irish Times, standout items include handmade dumplings priced at €15, with options such as cheeseburger dumplings and pork, kimchi, and chive fillings. Other menu items feature battered aubergine popcorn tossed in a sweet and sour caramel sauce for €13, a Texas Dragon brisket bao at €8.50, and hand-pulled noodle bowls featuring a 12-hour smoked beef rib priced at €22.
Beverage Selection
The drink menu highlights Japanese-inspired cocktails designed by mixologist Daire Smullen.