Provender & Family in Dublin

WOW. If you’re planning a “café crawl” around Dublin, this would be the crowning jewel. I visited Provender & Family sometime last week- the precise date escapes me, sadly- time is so very fickle. Regardless, I hopped into the café simply seeking the sweet nectar of the humble coffee cherry, but was blown away, first of all, by the wide array of comestibles, ranging from the mighty sandwich to the lowly yet companionable sausage roll. I opted for a tuna melt, and by the time it arrived at my plate (no time at all, mind you), I was near delirious from the aroma of capers, sweetcorn, and, of course, the distinct smell of the redoubtable tuna. I chuckled with delight at my first bite, for there were lemons in the melt- yes, LEMONS! My eyes watered, my brows relaxed, and my heart was filled with glee. It’s rare, of course, for the tangy lemon flavour to remain so fresh in a melt, but by God, it was there, and there to stay. The tuna melt vanished within a scant few minutes- so ravenous was I that I then ordered a slice of banana bread, which went down a treat. Then, the coffee. I ordered a cappuccino, which put the coffee houses of Turin and Florence to shame- it was nonpareil. It goes without saying that after years of working in advertising, I have a caffeine tolerance that would put the late David Lynch to shame. So, I ordered an iced latte, for the sun was beating down on me through the glazed windows. I’m happy to say that it rivalled the cappuccino for its smoothness, richness, and drinkability. It also goes without saying that I have the metabolism of a hummingbird, so I ordered a second tuna melt. It was even better than the previous one. It should also be mentioned that throughout my juncture in this commodious establishment, the lady behind the counter engaged me in polite conversation of no small amusement. We traded witticism for witticism, yet I was bested handily, and I commended my host for her deft wordplay. I think her name was Cara? There is music in the café, although the volume is kept at a reasonable and atmospheric level. There are also fascinating books on the shelves opposite the counter. It’s not often that one learns while imbibing the nectar of the coffee bean, but I did, and can now converse with acuity about the finer details of Jamaican cuisine, fast-food (done “gourmet style”), and vegetables. Fed, caffeinated, and somewhat enlightened, I wafted out of the café, sorry to leave. Immediately after leaving I fell over a Shih Tzu, and while the canine was unharmed, I had to hobble to the pharmacy (located nearby) where I repaired myself. All in all, this café is a gem on the diadem of Dublin’s coffee scene, and the next time I visit “Dublin’s Fair City”, I will be back.

OK the food is a bit expensive but I got a massive, delicious quesadilla - definitely worth the price. The staff are very friendly and there’s a few seats outside where people seem to like to chill out for a bit with their coffee. If you’re staying nearby I’d recommend coming here for breakfast before going into town or continuing on to the park.

Nice flat white and great pastry!

Very nice little cafe. I had an excellent chai tea latte here. The staff was very nice and the cafe was clean, including the bathroom. Everything is taken away from this cafe. They don't have seating inside really, but three tables outside. Prime people watching spot if the weather permits. It's right by the Ashling, so a great spot to grab a coffee before a work conference.