I came in here one sunny afternoon to meet a friend, a former NCAD student. I wouldn't have typically tried this place out as I'd see myself as trespassing but no one passed any heed! Its located in the cosy basement of NCAD. The adventurous menu is a one pager, with two veggie options, and a choice of delicious baked goods. You queue up to place your order, and as you wait you can see all the goings on in the heart of the kitchen through the old arches behind the till, which is a glorious bit of theatre!
I had a gorgeous bowl of spiced split pea and barley broth with spinach (€3), and a flourless dark chocolate and butternut squash brownie (€2). €5 for both is fantastic value imo, considering a student's budget, and a vast improvement on the unhealthy rice and chips I was used to in UCD. The place is buzzing with students and lecturers, eating, chatting and working together on projects. The interior is aesthetically pleasing, as is the presentation of the food - communal wooden benches, exposed brick and upcycled light fixtures. The soup is served in weighty rustic bowls, the sandwiches cheerfully wrapped in brown paper, like something out of an Enid Blyton novel, the food is gratefully gulped down with big hearty mugs of tea.
When I find myself near Thomas Street again, I'll certainly be calling in here! After eating your fill, if you can spare the time, its great fun to while away an hour or so people watching in the square of NCAD, some art students are like birds of paradise! read more