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A Hidden Gem for Brunch Lovers – The Hungry Duck Review

One of the exciting parts about moving to a new neighbourhood is discovering new local businesses to love. The Hungry Duck, an inviting and friendly cafe right in the intersection between Kimmage and Crumlin in Dublin 12, was just love at first avocado on toast. 

After nearly a year of takeaway sambos, picnic-ready packed lunches and lattes to go, I was able to finally sit down for a proper indoors brunch and I can’t wait to go back.

The venue, which opened in 2016, hosts a handful of indoor tables and about a dozen more in their front area (most of them covered with a canopy, in case of Dublin). It is run by a husband and wife teamchef Aidan Noctor and TV producer Lesley O’Connor.

The decor is casual but carefully put together, with shades of blue and wooden furniture harmoniously matching, and the odd vintage poster or duck ornament here and there. The coffee area and kitchen are open and visible from the indoors seating area.

The Hungry Duck is currently open Wednesday to Sunday between 10am to 4pm and it has earned a loyal local fanbase, although it is worth a detour and there is parking in the shopping centre just across the road. 

Their brunch menu is packed with favourites done well. It features a concise drinks menu with a couple of house whites and reds by the glass, Cava and fizzy cocktails. We started our experience with a Bellini and a Pavarotti (€9 each).

After the bubbly beginning, our coffees and mains arrived. My guest had Eggs Benedict (€12) and I ordered French Toast Brioche (€11), with an extra of bacon on the side (€3).

There is a ‘moment of truth’ when you love food and are about to eat poached eggs. They have to be slightly runny, but not too runny, and these hit the sweet spot. The hollandaise sauce was also on point, creamy and indulgent but not excessive.

The French toast was also delightful. A golden tower of fluffy, golden brioche bread, topped with a ball of mascarpone and surrounded by a generous medley of jam and maple syrup.

The portions were generous and the presentations pleasing. Despite being a busy time (Sunday noon), the service was efficient and accommodating. As regards new-normal protocols, we felt they’ve covered all the bases.

Only because they looked so tempting, we decided to share a brownie (€5.95). The Hungry Duck’s sweet offer is made in-house and changes frequently, with homemade lemon and chocolate cakes also tempting us from the barista station. 

Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a laid-back brunch with a small group of friends or family, or a relaxed spot for a daytime date, The Hungry Duck is definitely one to put on your radar if it’s not there already. Extra points for their ‘Little Ducks’ menu, perfect for the youngest brunchers in the crowd.

The bill at The Hungry Duck arrived at a very reasonable total of €59.55, which included two sparkling cocktails, two mains, three coffees and a dessert.

And just one note on their sambos before I’m done, although we didn’t have one on the day, allow me to recommend their signature The Hungry Duck Bacon Sarnie, a filling and delicious breakfast or lunch on Waterford Blaa.

The Hungry Duck

189 Kimmage Rd W, Kimmage, Dublin 12

(01) 465 1944

hungryduck.ie

ARTICLE BY GABY GUEDEZ

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