Restaurant Review: Metro Cafe in Dublin

One complaint I hear frequently about the Dublin dining scene is that there aren’t many affordable options if you just want to grab something to eat. Even many sandwich bars or delis can be expensive and lack substance. Tapas has recently taken the city by storm: many restaurants seem to have a new tapas menu. But what about if you’re actually hungry? Thankfully, there is Metro Cafe.

Taking a stroll along polished South William Street, it would be easy to assume that many of the restaurants are too expensive to grab something quick to eat. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that no matter what time or day you take a table at Metro Cafe, it will most likely be busy. This cafe has priced everything just right: customers can depend on both value and quality. If I’m in the area, and I could use a snack, it’s hard to argue with a bowl of leek and potato soup with crispy pancetta for €3.50.  The soup is also served with a nice hunk of bread for dipping. In a city where you can rarely purchase lunch for less than a 5 euro bill, Metro Cafe is refreshing.

The menu also contains hearty salads, toasted sandwiches, breakfast options, and quality coffee. Open in the evening as well, Metro Cafe is one of the best places in the city to get an affordable dinner. I especially like this spot because it has something American about its atmosphere. If I want to grab a quick lunch, the efficient service gets me in and out quickly. On the other hand, if I bring in the newspaper and order a coffee, they never rush me out either. In this way, it is the best of both worlds: somewhere between American and European.

Whether you grab a table outside on a sunny day or choose a cozy booth inside, this central cafe delivers with its friendly service, varied menu, and value for money.

Address: 43 South William Street, Dublin 2. 

Photo Credit: Jessica Colley