About Alma Cafe
Tucked into the vibrant Portobello neighbourhood, Alma Cafe feels like a warm hug from a local friend every time you step inside. This family-run brunch spot on Rathmines Terrace has been winning hearts with its focus on seasonal, local produce and bold, unforgettable flavours since opening its doors. Picture this: you're sitting at a sunlit table, the aroma of freshly roasted specialty coffee mingling with the sizzle of eggs poaching perfectly for their signature Turkish eggs, drenched in garlicky yoghurt and fiery chilli butter. Or dive into their hearty shakshuka, bubbling with peppers, tomatoes, and spices sourced from Irish farms. Portobello brunch doesn't get much better than this cosy haven, where the menu evolves with the seasons to keep things fresh and exciting. The walls adorned with local art and the chatter of Dubliners make it a true slice of neighbourhood life, just a stone's throw from the Grand Canal's serene waters.
What to Expect
Brunch here is all about quality over quantity. The all-day menu shines with dishes like avocado smash on house sourdough, fluffy ricotta hotcakes drizzled with lemon curd and berries, and vegan-friendly halloumi fries that disappear in seconds. Coffee lovers rejoice: their single-origin brews are pulled with precision, courtesy of beans from small roasters. The interior is bright and inviting, with wooden tables, potted plants, and a chalkboard menu that changes daily. Open from around 8am weekends, it gets busy with cyclists, dog walkers, and families from nearby Rathmines. Portions are generous, flavours punchy, and prices keep it accessible for a proper Dublin brunch splurge.
Insider Tips
Beat the queue by arriving at opening on sunny Sundays; snag the corner table for prime people-watching on Rathmines Terrace. Ask for the off-menu special if chatting with the owners, they love sharing seasonal tweaks. Pair brunch with a fresh-pressed juice rather than coffee if you're canal-walking afterwards to Portobello Harbour. For the best Portobello brunch experience, come hungry and linger over their house-made pastries. After fuelling up, wander to nearby Richmond Street for boutique shops or the canal path for a peaceful stroll amid herons and narrowboats. Locals swear by Alma for that authentic, unpretentious vibe that makes Dublin's southside special. Pro tip: book ahead via Instagram for peak times, as word spreads fast in this tight-knit community.