itsa@IMMA

One of the well known ‘Itsa’ restaurants (Itsa4, Table) run by sisters Domini and Peaches Kemp, this self-service restaurant is located next to the bookshop in the basement of the north wing which makes up one side of the IMMA quadrangle, and is accessed by going through the main museum entrance and across the courtyard.

While it’s a pity that the café is not in a more obvious location on the ground floor, where tables and chairs could be set up outside - the courtyard would make for a great European style al fresco dining area – it’s a pleasing space once you get there.

There’s a small reception area with couches and small tables, which is ideal for those stopping in for just a coffee, and the café is a brightly decorated long narrow arched room with various art, not all modern in style, on display and for sale.

Staff are pleasant and food offered includes the full range of ItsaBagel bagels and a selection of pastries and cakes, plus a couple of hot dishes and the usual soups, quiches, sausage rolls and salads.

While this can be a mixed experience, especially at busy times, good baking is a strength, and all the pastries and cakes are particularly appealing.

Drinks offered include very good smoothies and a small but adequate selection of quarter bottles of wine (four different varietals from same Chilean producer).

While not a destination restaurant, it generally provides a pleasant pitstop for visitors to IMMA in need of rest and refreshment.