Brunches are the saviour of my Saturday/Sunday morning hangovers! Perfectly timed, perfectly tasty and perfectly quenching that weird I got up late but its not properly lunch, but too late for cereal hunger.
When looking for a good spot to brunch I factor in a couple of things: Cost, quantity, quality and variety. As a student budget to me is everything. Dropping €20 on a meal for one is the height of fine dining. So, whatever it is, it better be worth it.
One of my top spots will always and forever be Lemon Crepe, Dawson Street. The holy grail of sweet and savoury pancakes in Dublin. My usual order is the Mexican salad beef buff crepe with a big cup of coffee. The total usually comes to around €15 and is beyond worth it. The portions are huge and haven’t failed me yet taste wise.
If I’m feeling a bit posh I’ll go to Cinnamon in Ranelagh. I was drawn in initially with its unashamed bright pink exterior. Luckily it would appear they have something to shout about. Great coffee, even better wraps. Usually a busy spot. I’d make a reservation beforehand.
Anyone who knows me knows well that the one way to get to my heart is through baked goods. What can I say? I love carbs. Ann’s Bakery is spread throughout a couple of spots in Dublin, though my regular haunt is Henry Street. Cheap, cheerful and yummy. The staff are always insanely friendly and there are no words to describe their blueberry muffins. They do some savoury stuff too. Cost is pretty low on this one. So, you can treat yourself on a small eating nothing but dry pasta for a week budget.
The next place on my list is Café105 in Clonskeagh. Less than a 10 minute walk from UCD. You better prepare to roll home you’ll be so full. The food is great quality and the portions are massive. On top of that you can feed your inner hipster with their locally sourced juices from Ranelagh. Give the Beetroot one a go. Cost is pretty in line with a student budget as the college is so near and the décor is stunning.
Finally, I’m tipping a hat in the direction of The Hopsack in Rathmines. Not vegan myself (and this is a vegan spot) but the food is absolutely amazing. If you’re looking for variety and thought put into flavours don’t look anywhere else. You can get a decent brunch for about a tenner and the place stands out because of the friendliness of the staff. Their joyous attitude is kind of infectious. Exactly what the doctor asked for to cure your hangover.
So, there you have your spots! Perhaps I’ll see you at some soon..
