Bewley’s is well known amongst the Irish coffee and tea scene. They are focused on the quality and craft of their drinks, ensuring the family business is always living up to the high bar it sets for itself. One of the founders of the cafes, Ernest Bewley, said “I want the best, and even that is not good enough!”, and this ideology can be found in every aspect of the Bewley’s experience. From their tasty lunches and afternoon teas, right down to their retail range, nothing about Bewley’s is overlooked.
Established in 1840 and supplying to over 4,000 hotels, restaurants and cafes, it’s fair to say Bewley’s has made quite the mark on Ireland – and it all stems from their single café on Grafton Street. Charles Bewley brought Ireland’s first direct tea imports from China in 1835, and this was the beginning of building their family business, which took off in 1927 – the opening of Grafton Street.
From there, Bewley’s became somewhere that not only served delicious food and drinks, but was a celebration of art. Stained-glass artworks can be found all around the café, with references to myths, legends, and Irish heritage. If live art is more your thing, Bewley’s has a Lunchtime Theatre, where shows run between 1pm – 2pm to allow you the rest of the day to explore Dublin. Many writers have also graced the café’s walls, and Bewley’s see stories in the everyday people, too, from secrets shared to grand proposals. The building itself was originally two townhouses, and the twin fireplaces from these houses are still standing to welcome customers inside, keeping a nod to the café’s beginnings. It’s truly a gem of Dublin – and the food and drink is pretty nice, too!
Location: Bewley’s Café Grafton Street, Dublin
Who can visit: 1 or 2 adults
Reimbursement: Eat-in visits - €40 for 2 people and €30 for 1 person. Take away visits - €24 for 2 people and €12 for 1 person.
