01/04/2024: Carvery was lovely only thing would have like more mash potatoe. Served until 545pm
14/03/2024: Heading into Olli's Bar, my expectations were set high. After all, stepping into Ireland for the first time with a stomach screaming for a hearty Irish breakfast, where better to turn than a local pub that screams "Irish charm"? And Olli's did not disappoint – at least in providing that quintessential European Irish pub ambiance we tourists often daydream about.
Upon arrival, it seemed we were the early birds catching the proverbial worm, or in this case, hoping to snag some traditional breakfast. The pub was just waking up, much like the city around it, with a serene quietness that whispered promises of bustling evenings. The waiter, though juggling the morning's myriad tasks, greeted us with a friendly if somewhat distracted air.
Now, patience is a virtue, especially in Olli's Bar. As the staff fluttered around, prepping for the day, our anticipation for the famed large Irish breakfast grew. When it finally arrived, it was a mixed bag of emotions. The beans, though lacking the homemade touch (suspicion points towards a can), were hearty. The black and white pudding, on the other hand, were a delightful surprise. Lighter than expected, they danced on the palate, accompanied by the standout performance of the mushrooms from the vegetarian option.
Admittedly, while the food's arrival was more of a slow waltz than a quickstep, it allowed us to soak in the pub's atmosphere. The not-so-attentive service could be chalked up to the morning's slow start, a small hiccup in what was an otherwise charming experience.
In summary, Olli's Bar served as a wonderful introduction to Ireland's pub culture. It was exactly the kind of place we'd envisioned – embodying the Irish pub charm with all its quirks. While there's room for improvement (a tad more attention to the culinary execution wouldn't go amiss), the overall experience was positive. For those venturing into this area, Olli's offers a slice of Ireland worth experiencing. Just maybe allow a little extra time for the food, and perhaps bring your own beans if you're particular about them.