Uniquely situated in Michael Murphy’s Home Furnishing, the store’s stylish theme flows effortlessly through into this bright café. It’s not a large space but the big windows overlooking Cutlery Street bring in both light and airiness and the high ceiling adds a spacious feeling. Attractive navy banquettes set against the blue-painted walls promise a comfy spot to consider the daily blackboard specials.
Kildare native Chef/patron Emmet Dunne promises 'honest local food' - and, although the menu isn’t long, it's thoughtfully planned and there’s something for everyone at this popular café.
The day begins early, with a great breakfast offering from 9am. You'll find all of the traditional favourites, of course – full Irish, eggs Benedict, Brioche French toast - or you might go for a healthy Grains & Greens option – brown rice, quinoa, spelt, kale, spinach, sunflower, sesame and pumpkin seeds, carrots, avocado and poached egg... Or perhaps an upbeat variation on tradition, like triple smoked bacon and basil scrambled eggs.
Homemade pastries and cakes (bakwell, carrot cake, lemon drizzle, croissants...) will fill that mid-morning gap very agreeably, and then lunch offers a good range of choices including soup of the day with homemade soda bread, pizzas, and the house specialities - Emmet's super sambos and salads. Definitely not your average sandwich, the options include a very good dry aged steak sandwich, slow cooked pork belly with caramelised onion, pineapple chutney, baby gem on sourdough - and a Market Club (with free range chicken breast, smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce and homemade aioli) among others.
A 'Lighter bites and mains' section offers a pasta of the day and a vegetarian curry alongside favourites like the rare breed dexter burger, fish & chips and tasty asparagus and poached eggs with Serrano ham, hollandaise and parmesan on sourdough. Special dietary needs are catered for, with gluten free, vegetarian, vegan and paleo dishes available - and there's a very nice little Kids Menu too, offering proper food including pan fried haddock.
When it comes to drinks, as well as regular tea, coffee and herbal teas, the range includes some healthy (and delicious) homemade juices (carrot, apple & ginger and beetroot, perhaps, or apple & turmeric) and there's local beer by Wicklow Wolf, plus Longueville House Cider from Co Cork - and a small selection of wines.
All round a useful place to know about, with pleasant service from Fernanda Dunne and her team - and handy parking too, across the road or at the adjacent Whitewater Shopping Centre.
