Two Boys Brew, Phibsborough
The centre of town is abundant with cool cafes that some would describe as a little bit hipster. However, I noticed these ‘vibey’ establishments are pretty much non-existent around DCU. So, when Two Boys Brew in Phibsborough started flooding my Instagram feed with mouth watering food and dreamy coffee, I knew the heavens had answered my prayers.
The restaurant is only a seven minute bus journey on the number nine from the college. If you love coffee or have a genuine passion for poached eggs like myself, this is the place for you. It’s simplistic modern aesthetic, with subtle treats for the eye. Arty ‘LOVE’ magazines and untamed hanging plants are dotted around the cafe. Their food however, proved the most pleasing treat. They serve everything from avocado toast to superfood salads and homemade tasty treats. I went for the mushrooms and poached eggs on toast with a side of black pudding. The chefs really don’t hold back on portion size with every bite containing all the elements of the dish. It was an absolute pleasure for the palette.
The staff were very friendly. I felt like I had been there before with the welcome I received. Their youthful energy and exuding passion created a wonderful environment to dine in. My meal, along with a cappuccino and one peppermint tea came to €15, well worth every penny. I will be definitely returning to try their dinner menu.
Andersons, Drumcondra
Isn’t it just great that pancakes are now an acceptable breakfast option. I mean, warm stacks of buttery goodness soaked in sugary syrup and topped with fresh strawberries would get even the laziest student out of bed. And if you are half as sluggish as me you’ll know there is nothing better than going to a cafe that specialise in making your pancake fantasies come true.
Andersons is a French style creperie doing just that. The funky little cafe is ideally located for DCU, just a short stroll from the St. Pat’s Campus. It serves traditional sweet crepes and savory buckwheat galettes along with gourmet sandwiches, soups and quiches. The unmistakable smell of batter hitting the pan wafts through the cafe as you watch the chefs prepare your meal in the open kitchen. It is all very French. I went for the chocolate crepe served with strawberries and cream and a black coffee which came to under €12. My friend ordered the ‘All Day Breakfast’ galette. Gourmet sausage, bacon, emmental cheese and mushroom filled the fluffy parcel which was topped with an egg and served with baby roast potatoes and tomato chutney. It was a feed and half, breakfast and lunch all rolled into one.
Tucked away at the end of a lovely red bricked street, Andersons is a perfect spot to go to for a quiet catch up with your friends as not too many people know about it yet. So ssshh.
Laura McKenna \ Instagram @theelleplate