Hi Tamsin
I think the place on Irish Town you mention is Cafe Rojo - run by Annette & her husband (can't remember is name right now!) They used to work in Cafe Solo. Yes, the food is good there - in fact that's where El Patio was situated many years ago before Casemates Square was transformed.
La Mamela is another great place to eat as you say, and there are new restaurants opening in the new Marina.
Celebrity restaurant and wine bar (which is managed by the same people who manage Charlie's and The Ship in Marina Bay) is one of the new one's which has a good menu and is quite reasonable. There is also a new Mexican and a Chinese, as well as many others opening soon (Pizza Express etc)
Don't forget Gaucho's - the place to eat for a decent steak - they guy who owns this used to own Bianca's on the Marina many years ago too ....
I also have to mention Simon's - only about 5 or 6 tables inside - also run by a man and wife team. Reservations are recommended here too, and I think they are now only open in the evenings....but the food is very good.
As for the restaurants on Queensway Marina, well, they are getting a bit better.
The Waterfront used to be owned by the guy who started Biancas but it hsa now been sold on ... the food just isn't that good in my opinion!
Casa Pepe is also on Queensway Marina and they do excellent fish and steaks there, but I find they like to cover everything in a thick sauce....
The Boat Yard is the newest restaurant on Queensway and whilst the food is very good the portions are tiny and the prices sky high!
Claus on the Rock was a very good restaurant but is currently under refurbishment and will re-open with the name 14 Queensway ... lets hope the quality stays the same...
But, for me, El Patio is still the best place in Gib - you must try it if you like good food and service.
