With lockdown being extended and the weather picking up, now is the perfect time to start exploring Bray’s new unique independent coffee scene. Grabbing a coffee at Bray and walking to Greystones is the perfect free, socially distant, and fun outdoor experience. We’d recommend going midweek to avoid any congestion as it does get narrow at some points. Here are the best local coffee shops to try out for fuelling your walk.
(Click for more info)Catalyst Coffee
Catalyst was set up two years ago on Florence road. In March 2020 they created a pop-up in Ocean, the restaurant beside the Dart station on the sea front. Due to massive popularity, that pop up has now become a fixed feature of Bray’s seafront. Their edgy, unique design and Insta-worthy location makes this independent café a real experience.
Our Favourite Walking Coffee: The Matcha Latte
Best Bite for your Walk: Protein Ball
(Click for more info)Glovers No.7
Glovers café is family run and you can tell that every coffee and bite is made with love. Located on Albert Terrace, which is parallel to the sea front, this independent café has it all. Their Instagram is peppered with pics of the local pooches, as it's more than pet friendly. They have been growing in popularity since introducing their signature hot chocolates which are a meal in themselves.
Our Favourite Walking Coffee: The Happy Hippo Hot Chocolate
Best Bite for your walk: Mini Doughnuts with melted chocolate
(Click for more info)Contemporary Coffee
This independent cafe provides coffee with a conscious. This is a hidden gem in the arcade just off Bray’s Main street. The coffee here is decorated with edible flowers and give you a little slice of heaven. The interior is simple as all of the focus is on the quality of the coffee and delicious snacks. They also have a few locally produced products such as coffee scrubs and soaps to choose from (perfect for after your long walk!).
Our Favourite Walking Coffee: Flat White or Hot Chocolate
Best Bite for your walk: Homemade cookie
(Click for more info)Finnbee's Coffee House
Here we have a sea front staple. You can’t walk the Bray seafront promenade without passing Finnbee's bright orange flags. They have been pouring delicious coffees for over ten years using locally sourced and hand roasted beans. An extra walkers’ perk is their free wifi and (once it is safe) their large seating area to rest your legs.
Our Favourite Walking Coffee: Cappuccino
Best Bite to fuel your walk: Mediterranean Focaccia
(Click for more info)The Martello
The Martello has perfectly adapted to the new normal. Usually a pub, restaurant and Hotel, the Martello has revamped to meet the new independent coffee scene in Bray with style. Offering a full to go menu along including home made cocktails, they’re not letting covid get in their way. Their daytime menu includes pancakes, baps, granola, and many other breakfast staples. Over Winter they have also curated some speciality hot chocolates which are a sight to be seen.
Our Favourite Walking Coffee: A Cappuccino or Speciality Hot Chocolate
Best Bite to fuel your walk: Freshly made raspberry scone.
(Click for more info)The Boat House Coffee Dock
This next independent coffee shop is right at the start of the Cliff Walk, this little coffee shop is perfect if you want to grab a coffee before you begin your walk. The Coffee Dock is open until 6pm for any late comers and offers a range of sambos and treats.
Our Favourite Walking Coffee: Latte
Best Bite to fuel your walk: Cajun chicken Panini
We hope you give these independent coffee shop experiences a go and enjoy your walk!
