THERE’S AN IRISH proverb that states, “Laughter is brightest where food is best”. This sentiment captures the essence of how eating good food with friends and family can conjure lasting memories.
While brunch – a marriage of breakfast and lunch – may not have been a thing in the era that birthed that proverb, it has certainly become something of a global phenomenon in the last 20 years. Whether the occasion is a family gathering or a Sunday morning debrief of the weekend’s events, brunch always provides a perfect setting for casual conversation.
Stacks of fluffy pancakes, breakfast sandwiches stuffed with greens and rashers and inventive plates of flavoursome (and often colourful) ingredients stacked atop a hearty slice of sourdough toast and topped with a runny poached egg are what brunch dreams are made of. If you’re feeling like an added treat, a refreshing Mimosa can be a delicious accompaniment to start your weekend.
In the last decade, Ireland’s brunch culture has taken off. These days, it’s impossible to scroll through social media on a Saturday afternoon without being inundated with carefully constructed images of people’s mouth-watering meals. Across the country, there are countless cafes and restaurants providing a wide range of brunch experiences. In some instances, people plan weekend getaways based on the excellent food culture of a particular city.
For those looking to expand their brunch horizons, we’ve compiled a guide to some of Ireland’s best brunch spots with great food for all occasions.
Where: 14A Emorville Ave, Portobello, Dublin, D08 YY66
What: Tucked away in a quaint residential area in Dublin 8, Bibi’s is something of an institution when it comes to brunch. Bibi’s, opened in 2010, is a family affair, run by siblings Maisha and Geoff Lenehan, with the cafe getting its name from their grandmother. Known for its delicious brunch menu, with customer favourites including Turkish Eggs and comforting cheese toasties, there’s a simplicity across their food that gives a homely feel in each bite.
Where: 5 locations across Belfast.
What: A contemporary spot for great coffee and even tastier food, General Merchants is a must-visit in Belfast. Now operating out of 5 different locations across the city, each one offering a warm welcome and is somewhere you could easily spend an afternoon catching up with friends over hearty meals that will more than set you up for the day. Whether you like a restorative plate of nutritious eggs or a substantial breakfast sandwich crammed with just the right amount of carbs for a little pick-me-up, their menu will keep enticing you back.
Where: Located within, Nano Nagle Place, Douglas St, Cork, T12 PXV1
What: Not only is Good Day Deli focused on developing a sustainably sourced and designed food menu packed with goodness, they appreciate the sensory importance of eating with your eyes. The presentation of each plate, comprised of locally sourced seasonal ingredients, is masterfully executed and the cafe’s serene atmosphere is complemented by the beautiful surrounding greenery and scenery.
Where: 34 Stoneybatter, Arbour Hill, Stoneybatter, Dublin, D07 HP99
What: Brunch is a great excuse to catch-up with friends, but what’s better than good company? Good food, of course. Situated in Dublin’s Stoneybatter neighbourhood, Social Fabric is a vital component of its community. Pet friendly and fitted out with a cool, contemporary interior this is a great spot to come for a solo excursion, family gathering or weekend gossip. Most importantly, Social Fabric provides the types of breakfasts that you dream about all week from buttermilk pancakes, stacked sandwiches and the old reliable weekend meal, a greasy fry-up.
Where: 51 Dominick St Lower, Galway, H91 E3F1
What: Dela is famous for its brunches. There are several excellent qualities to Dela – friendly staff, and a welcoming environment – but its greatest strength is the mouth-watering food which is undoubtedly elevated by them growing fresh produce on their farm. Thus ensuring the highest quality (and sustainably sourced) ingredients to enjoy in their modern brunch offering. Next time you’re planning a weekend brunch outing in Galway, Dela has something for all palates with breakfast burritos, mushrooms on toast and even a breakfast steak sandwich.
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