Rathmines Village
Rathmines has an odd mix of cheap fast-food outlets, mediocre cafes, and excellent eateries. Zen, Sweet Basil Thai, and Jo’Burger, all located in this town at the edge of Dublin’s south city, fall into the latter category. And so does The Village Cafe.
Recently reopened under new management, myself and a friend popped in for a quick lunch on Wednesday. Everything looked instantly tempting. The display counter had a great choice of sandwiches, beautiful breads, and fresh salads. A daily menu featured Mediterranean Beef Stews and Spanish Tortilla, served with salads and all in or around €7.95.
The chef is behind the counter, in full regalia, and he’s both serving and cooking. I asked him what Chicken Basquaise (Basque Chicken) was, and he explained that he’d looked at his box of ingredients and whipped it up. A waitress brought it to my table: a juicy and succulent leg, marinaded in white wine, herbs, mustard and more, and served with sweet peppers. A pretty little tower of lemon couscous was the perfect accompaniment.
My friend got a large plate of salads, including Chorizo and Spinach, Lemon Couscous, Tomatoes and Feta Cheese, and a generous slice of bread. The chorizo came in large, generous slices, and the salads were fresh and lively with quality ingredients.
The Village Cafe is a well-designed, thoughtful space with additional seating outside. The staff are friendly and helpful, while the creative, hands-on chef is clearly passionate about good food and excited about the opportunities presented by running this cafe.
Our bill, for two big lunches and an airy and light Blueberry Muffin, came to €18.40. From next Monday, The Village Cafe will begin opening till 8.30pm. A little gem – definitely worth checking out for lunch or dinner.
- The Village Cafe, 170 Rathmines Road Lower, Rathmines. Tel: 014975130
Friday 15 May, 2009 at 10:35 am
Thanks for the review. I’ve been walking past every morning and evening as I walk to and from work, but I’ve never tried it out. Will definitely do so now.
Friday 15 May, 2009 at 11:30 am
I live close by and have been a few times since new management. I really like it and you’re right the staff are very friendly and helpful. Delighted to hear that it’s opening later into the evenings now.
Thursday 27 August, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Was there for dinner last night and it was really excellent – wholesome, fresh, homemade, friendly and atmospheric with a good variety of wines. Open till 9pm and excellent value too
Sunday 21 February, 2010 at 2:20 pm
Saw this on o2 treats today –
“To celebrate their late opening hours – The Village Cafe are offering this great deal to 02 Customers.
Buy a main course and get another main free!”
There are 5 vouchers per o2 customer but it expires on 28th Feb so you have to get moving quickly!