Although Terenure has no shortage of restaurants, good daytime cafés have tended to be thin on the ground - until Stephen Slattery Foam stepped up to the plate, with his quality-led Foam Coffeehouse. It filled the niche and was an instant success from the day he opened the doors in 2017.
Previously an architect’s office and, many years ago, a fruit and vegetable shop, it’s a small space but very pleasant. Large windows to the front allow for good natural lighting, as do the white-painted walls - and a brick wall that's partly adorned with paper floral decoration provides interest
Delicious cakes and scones are displayed on a large piece of wood on the counter and, at the back, a blackboard announces the various coffees available.
Breakfast begins at 8am, providing such a good choice that it might not be a good idea to be rushing to work. Organic porridge, fruit bircher, eggs benedict, Firehouse sourdough toast – the choice of additions here includes hummus, avocado, Feta cheese – as well as homemade jam. Lunch offers open sandwiches, salads and big and small bites, with quality to the fore and some local artisan producers featured.
Weekends are given over to all-day Brunch, when it’s a hive of activity with a busy and buzzy atmosphere. The usual favourites are here – French toast, eggs royale, blueberry pancakes to name just a few. Two unusual plates stand out – eggs shakshuka comes in a cast iron skillet and is a spicy tomato, pepper and onion sauce, topped with baked eggs. Potato and chorizo hash has herb-roasted potatoes, baked chorizo, coriander and tahini yogurt, all topped with a fried egg. If you still feel a bit peckish, a scone, a slice of homemade banana bread, or a flourless brownie will fill the gap.
While best known for its daytime fare - and especially the delicious brunch - dinner at this neighhbourhood favourite is available on Friday and Saturday evenings, with a popular two- or three-course menu offered.
