For over two decades this bright and bubbly llittle place just off Patrick Street has been providing a restorative treat in the city centre. "Real food for real people” was the original motto of Richard and Mairead Jacob’s ‘small but perfectly formed’ Idaho.Cafe when they opened here in 2001 - and, when the baton was handed on to new owner Dermot O'Sullivan in January 2022, he may have changed the name but regulars were delighted to find that the philosophy is the same as ever.
Qiuipping that "the English Market is our cold room!", Dermot - who arrived here via some distinguished Cork kitchens including Ballymaloe House, Longueville House and Hayfield Manor - takes pride in ensuring that everything is fresh and local, and his supplier list tells you all you need to know.
Spiced Beef Reuban being a highly popular house speciality, Chicken Inn Cork Spiced Beef from the English Market takes pride of place and, while the all-day brunch menus change with the seasons, they'll always feature greats like K O Connell Smoked Salmon (English Market), Durrus Cheese from West Cork, East Ferry Farm Eggs, Arbutus Bread, and North Cork Butter.
As befits a daytime café, baking is also a speciality, offering plenty of temptations that are just right for that quick morning coffee or afternoon tea break - with Golden Bean Coffee (Ballymaloe) and Clement & Pekoe Herbal Tea among the wide range of hot and cold drinks offered.
All round it's a great little place, with a fun atmosphere, very tasty food, happy service - and great value.
