1021842 Bewleys

The last branch standing of the once substantial Bewleys coffee shop chain obtained a Publicans (Theatre) licence recently; which has a solid claim to legitimacy as there is actually a theatre in the building. However, I think they are slightly stretching the rules about service hours under that licence - not uncommon - as you can now get cocktails with meals instead of just wine as before.

And that is what I did, rather than going to a show. An Aperol Spritz along with a slightly mad, yet extremely nice, concoction that could best be described as eggs-benedict-as-a-burger served as a late lunch here and got me a licence tick.

While not always possible - the cafe is vast, with many side rooms that are frequently closed, and can be very busy in the areas that are open - a wander around here after you've eaten is worthwhile, as there is artwork, sculptures, stained glass windows and various artefacts from the past of both the Grafton Street branch and other bits of the chain on display throughout the premises.