What makes a caffeine hit worth travelling for? According to team IMAGE, it’s a mix of top tier blends, excellent people-watching vantage points, delicious sweet treats and stellar service. The staffers share their picks.
Hannah Monaghan, Art Designer
I was in Wexford back in January and stumbled into Barker’s Cafe on the main street. The selection honestly stopped me in my tracks. I’ve never seen so many options for coffee specials, syrups, and matcha in one place. I opted for a Biscoff latte and haven’t stopped thinking about it since. It’s one of those drinks that immediately has you planning your next visit back.
Another honourable mention has to go to Coffeewerk + Press in Galway City. They serve seriously good coffee and it’s always my first stop as soon as I get off the train. It’s also the perfect place to sit for an afternoon and people-watch, you could easily lose a few hours there without noticing!
Lauren Heskin, Editor, IMAGE Magazine
Plámás on Galway city’s Dominic Street is my current go-to (although nearby Espresso 44 and Urban Grind are also up there). The locally owned Gaeilgeoir coffee shop is small but mighty, serving up delicious coffee in tactile and ergonomic handmade cups, and plenty of sweet homemade treats. Word is they’re on the move to bigger digs too, a few doors over, into a former butchers and drapery shop that’s been closed for more than 30 years. With plans to seat up to 30 inside, there’ll be no need to fight over the coveted window seat.
In Westport, there’s only one place to hit and that’s This Must be the Place. A longstanding cafe that’s also recently moved a few doors down, it’s got a great little larder to stock on the likes of White Mausu peanut rayu, Chimac sauces, local coffee and lots more. Grab a seat (if you can get on) and watch the colour town of Westport brighten your view. The cakes and sweet treats are delicious but This Must be the Place is known for its iconic toasties; not to be missed.
Katie Brady, Marketing & Memberships Executive
I am lucky to be from Co. Louth for a multitude of reasons, one of which is the selection of coffee shops. I love the Village Garden on Blackrock beach for an early morning iced oat latte and a gorgeous view. In Dundalk, nothing beats Mo Chara. I love their coffee and locally inspired cups from Etaoin O’Reilly Ceramics. Finally, for delicious coffee and a sweet treat, Coyle’s Bakehouse is the perfect place for a well deserved oat flat white and freshly baked croissant.
Isabella Tierney, Social Media Assistant
Whenever I get the chance to get out of Dublin and head home to Mayo, my first stop is always one of Ballina’s newest gems, Grub Deli and Grocer.
More often than not, my dad and I end up parked at the window seats for far longer than intended. I’ll have my coconut milk flat white, while he’s fully committed to his latest obsession, a chai latte. It’s the kind of place where you can be chatting to everyone who walks through the door.
And as if the coffee wasn’t enough, the food seals the deal. Grub has the best selection of homemade dinners. Honestly, it’s almost a problem. Any motivation to cook disappears the second someone suggests, “Why don’t we just pop into Grub?” It’s an easy sell when you know everyone will be fed and watered.
Another favourite out west is Súil Eile Space. Tucked into the centre of Barna, this dreamy spot is where everyday rituals meet mindful living. Even better? It’s an Irish-speaking space, which gives it a really warm, local feel.
But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just about the coffee (though, yes, it’s very good). The space is proudly dog-friendly, complete with its iconic dog wall, a gallery of beloved four-legged regulars.
Beyond the café, there’s a calm studio hosting yoga, pilates, breathwork and meditation throughout the week. Making it the kind of place you wander into and end up staying for hours. Because really, the best spots are about how they make you feel. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll always gravitate towards somewhere that invites you to stay, soak it all in, and enjoy the community.
Sarah Gill, Deputy Digital Editor
There are very few things in life I would consider worth queuing for, and the goods at Magpie Bakery in Galway make you want to get up early just to make sure you secure the cream of the crop. On our recent team trip, we got a whole load of sweet and savoury treats to share, and I’m still thinking of the cream cheese and scallion everything croissant. The coffee is delicious and it’s in prime location in the Corn Store, so you can wander around Charlie Byrne’s or Outset Gallery while you sip.
Though it wouldn’t necessarily be my go-to for a coffee, a pot of tea in The Secret Garden in Galway is always a good time. It’s decked out in fairy lights and plush cushions you sink into while you read your book or just generally soak up the atmosphere. When I’m home in Roscommon, it’s a toss up between District and Rogue & Co. for a very tasty caffeine hit.
Meghan Killalea, Senior Marketing Account Executive
A trip home to Kildare would be incomplete without a matcha in the Rye River Cafe in Kilcock. Set in the surrounds of a beautiful old renovated church, they serve the most delicious coffee and their brunch menu is out of this world. I am also a huge fan of Willow and Wild in Maynooth who serve the most gorgeous coffee and serve up all the cosy coffee shop vibes in style.
A bit farther afield but one I would highly recommend if ever you find yourself in the gorgeous seaside village of Fenit in Co.Kerry, Mike’s Beach Shop and Café is a family-run gem in the heart of The Kingdom. They offer a wide range of baked goods, stunning lunch options and bags of fresh chips to eat by the sea, plus they probably have one of the nicest vanilla chai lattes you’ll ever have. It’s absolutely one not to be missed!
Shayna (Sappington) Healy, Branded Content Editor and Wedding Editor
My favourite local coffee shops are Plate and Palette – amazing sausage rolls and matcha – and Bruges – the best acai bowls and seasonal coffees – in Dunshaughlin, Co Meath. I also recently went to Galway and loved Magpie Bakery – their pastries are divine and you can browse Charlie Byrne’s bookshop next door with coffee in hand. Then, of course, Roundwood Stores in Co Wicklow – I always stop in here after a weekend hike. Their food is all made fresh and they’ve an in-house bakery and local food and goods shop, as well as a gorgeous outdoor space to soak up some sun.
Karen Bell, Director of Branded Partnerships
What gets me through a week of working from home is having something to look forward to—usually a well-earned coffee break. Luckily, my local spot, Little Brew Cafe in Kilcullen, never disappoints. Not only do they serve the nicest coffee, but their delicious treats and açai bowls are just as impressive…and addictive. Little Brew has brought a lovely energy to our town, it’s also the perfect place to catch up with friends—where you’re always welcomed with a smile.
Another favourite of mine is Firecastle in Kildare Town. Whether it’s a post-gym catch-up with friends over coffee and some delicious food, or just grabbing an iced coffee to go, it never disappoints. Their food is always fresh and full of flavour—so much so that it’s nearly impossible to leave without picking up a few extra treats.
On the way to a recent shoot in Meath, I came across J Foxy & Co. in the village of Summerhill. I was immediately taken by the beautifully designed interior, finished to such a high standard. The coffee was excellent, and to top it all off, they stock treats from 2210 Patisserie. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Dearbhla Lovett, IMAGE First Activations Freelancer
This is a coffee worth travelling for. Datsé’s Café in Cavan town does quite possibly the best coffee in Ireland. Run by a mother and daughter, you are guaranteed 10/10 coffee, a gorgeous selection of sweet treats, and a tidy menu of freshly made brunch items. An added smiley face on your takeaway cup is also guaranteed to brighten your day.
Hannah Stapleton, Freelance Junior Marketing Executive
I first found Jojo’s coffee in Celbridge (and also in Maynooth) on TikTok, and ever since I make it my mission to visit every time I’m nearby. Their coffee is incredible, and their pastries and sweet treats are even better.
I have grown up spending my summers in the sunny south east, in Ardmore Co Waterford. This means that the minute the sun hits, it’s time for an iced coffee and a stroll. Dún in Dungarvan had been on my must try list for months, and I always wonder how I waited so long. It’s one of the nicest pastries I’ve ever had. I also love to stop off in Cass and Co if I’m out for a walk around the town.
If you want a great coffee and a fabulous lunch, Priory in Youghal (and in other locations in Cork) is worth a visit. Such a great spot!
Newly opened in Ardmore is Soulmates – and the first place I’ll be heading to once I make my first trip down this summer. I always love trying out new places that open, and I’m sure that this will be just as good as I imagine. Picture a sunny day, iced coffee in hand, and a stroll on the beach – sublime!
Emily O’Neill, Branded Content Account Manager
Living in the Offaly countryside means there aren’t too many coffee shops nearby but the ones we do have are gems! Forj, in Edenderry is my number one go to for coffee (a coconut flat white or iced coconut latte) and matcha. It’s hard to find somewhere that does both well and they make some of the nicest around. It also helps that the owners and staff are the nicest people ever and always have time to chat with everyone!
If I’m venturing a little further from home, Conway & Co in Tullamore is another gorgeous spot. When you step inside, you’re met with a very cool interior that makes you feel like you’re in a European city! It’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee, one of their amazing pastries and catch up with friends.
The Grounds Coffee is another one of my favorites for a flat white! They have two drive thru locations: one in Portarlington & the other in Newbridge. It’s hard to find a good croissant locally but they supply some of the best. And I can’t forget about their açaí bowls… so good!
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