CANDLELIGHT & KEYS

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We’re beyond excited to launch an intimate new music series at Darby’s, in collaboration with Kawai — legendary Japanese piano makers who have been crafting some of the world’s finest instruments for nearly a century.

 

At the end of August, we’ll be welcoming a beautiful Kawai mini grand piano into the heart of our dining room, and with it, something truly special.

 

Music has always been at Darby’s core. The restaurant is named after my father, an incredible musician who, as a boy, was training to be a pianist until a tragic accident at 12 meant he lost three fingers on his left hand. Two years later, he picked up the trumpet and never looked back — playing professionally in the orchestral pits of Dublin’s Olympia and Gaiety Theatres, and later touring the world from New York to Chicago. His story is the heartbeat of Darby’s.

 

One of my biggest regrets is never following in his footsteps musically. As much as I love music — it’s the reason it’s such a big part of the restaurant — I just never picked up an instrument. I can, however, cook a bit… so on these nights, that’s my contribution. The musicians will handle the magic on the keys, and I’ll try to match them on the plate.

 

Candlelight & Keys will celebrate music the way we celebrate food — with care, craft, and soul. Each evening will feature world-class piano players, singers, and musicians who have performed alongside some of the greats. I’ll curate a menu inspired by each artist’s career, influences, and journey — always led by the best of what’s in season.

 

The first performance will be something truly special — 18th September with the incredible Jo Harrop on vocals and Sam Watts on the keys — followed by three more monthly concerts through to Christmas. Just a handful of seats will be available for each night, with the piano taking centre stage in the dining room under the soft glow of candlelight — a rare chance to experience music and food in perfect harmony

 

 

Robin Gill

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With collaboration with:​​​