Seemor
Dublin › Temple Bar › The Cake Cafe
The Cake CafeB+Worth Trying
The Daintree Building, 8 Pleasants Pl, Saint Kevin's, Dublin, Ireland
· Cafe, Art cafe, Bakery
· 4.5/5 Google (865 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Charming hidden courtyard cafe for brunch and cakes with warm vibes and occasional long waits; great for a relaxed treat, less ideal when you need speed.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The Cake Cafe delivers strong food quality anchored by house-baked cakes and thoughtful brunch dishes that justify repeat visits and local loyalty. However, inconsistent execution—variable egg doneness, fluctuating coffee quality, and service speed bottlenecks during peak hours—prevents a higher grade. The exceptional hidden courtyard setting through a bookshop creates memorable charm, but operational reliability remains the limiting factor for a cafe competing with Dublin's better neighborhood destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked behind a bookshop, this courtyard cafe feels like a hidden oasis where warm staff and house-baked treats set an easy tone. Reviewers gush that the space is cozy and charming, even when perched on stools by the open kitchen, noting scents of syrups and spices being made. One diner summed it up: "A peaceful escape with cakes that look as good as they taste." The cooking leans toward elevated comfort brunch: poached eggs with pea guacamole, dukkah and rayu, fluffy pancakes, and toasted sandwiches on seeded bread. Fans praise vibrant plates like the Green Goddess, while a minority report overly sweet toppings or the odd off-day coffee. It is creative without being fussy, best for those who enjoy thoughtful twists on classics rather than showy dining. Families do fine here thanks to pancakes, toasties, and eggs that kids recognize. There is no formal kids menu, but simple ham-and-cheese or plain toast works well. Space is tight at peak times, so prams and large groups may prefer off-peak visits, and portion sizes are friendly enough for sharing dessert.
At a Glance
- Hidden courtyard entry through a bookshop creates a memorable setting
- House-baked cakes and elevated brunch dishes draw repeat visits
- Waits for drinks and food can be long during peak hours
- Quality and coffee consistency vary by day
- Fair pricing for central Dublin with good ingredient quality
What Sets It Apart
- hidden_bookshop_entrance
- sunny_courtyard_seating
- house_baked_cakes
What People Love
- The hidden-oasis courtyard vibe
- Freshly baked cakes and scones
- Vibrant brunch plates like Green Goddess
- Friendly, welcoming staff presence
Points of Concern
- Service pace slows at peak, with reports of 20–40 minute waits for food and delayed drinks
- Occasional mismatched orders and variable egg doneness
- Some cakes or coffees feel inconsistent in flavor intensity
- Review patterns are consistent with genuine mixed experiences rather than coordination
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€22-31 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair the Green Goddess with a side of tomatoes and shallots for brightness
- If you like heat and texture, choose Mixed Nut Rayu over standard eggs
- Share a pancake and a sandwich to balance sweet and savory
- For celebrations, pre-book afternoon tea and confirm dietary needs
Perfect For
- Lazy weekend brunch in a charming courtyard
- Coffee and cake break while shopping nearby
- Casual catch-up with a friend
- Small celebrations with afternoon tea
Location Insights
Area: Central, creative quarter vibe near Camden Street and Grafton area; mix of students, locals, and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, busy by day and evenings; typical city-center foot traffic.
Nearby: Tucked behind The Last Bookshop with a courtyard; near shopping streets and offices.
Saint Kevin'sSaint Kevin's is a well-established neighborhood in Dublin characterized by a blend of residential streets and small commercial enterprises. The dining scene here includes casual cafes, traditional pubs, and contemporary eateries catering to a diverse crowd seeking relaxed and accessible dining options.
Pleasants PlacePleasants Place is a quieter micro-neighborhood within Saint Kevin's, known for its small-scale businesses and proximity to city amenities, attracting a steady flow of local clientele and professionals during the day.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–17:00
Tuesday10:00–17:00
Wednesday10:00–17:00
Thursday10:00–17:00
Friday10:00–17:00
Saturday10:00–17:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →