By Colette Fitzpatrick
I’m a big fan of all things Stella – the cinema and cocktail bar are regular haunts of mine (or as regular as I can afford) – so, it is no surprise that I immediately fell for the Stella Diner, their latest venture. After going for a swim on Saturday, I had worked up a serious hunger, as swimming does to a person, and I was wandering home past the Stella. I had noticed that the diner was opening in the days beforehand and, when I passed it and saw the doors thrown open wide, I thought, “Why not?”
It turned out to be an excellent decision.
What?
The Stella Diner; a retro American-style diner with a darker, more polished interior that gives off serious Twin Peaks vibes. Offering all-day breakfast (as in, until closing late in the PM), typical diner fare of hotdogs, burgers etc, as well as a range of diverse starters, main courses, desserts, and a movie-inspired cocktail menu.
Where?
211 Rathmines Rd Lower, Dublin 6, D06 Y277
When?
Mon-Sat 8am-10pm
How?
Great tunes from the sixties to the eighties go a long way in helping set the tone of a place that does what all parts of the Stella manage: evoke a setting so atmospheric and detailed that one feels utterly transported. It is a real experience and I can say that I really did feel like I was Agent Cooper and had found myself in the town of Twin Peaks.
The prices are actually pretty fair and I got a heaving feed of bacon, perfectly fried eggs, fried potatoes and an English Muffin for under 8 quid. My bill was only raised by my indulgent addition of a cocktail (the Edward Rhubarb Hands) to my brinner. While the food didn’t absolutely blow my mind (it would be hard for such a choice to do so), it was generous, tasty and attractively served. The cocktail was, likewise, served prettily in a tall glass with sweets floating in it – no straws, well done, lads – and was tasty enough but not really my cup of tea. My own fault as I tried something new that I predicted most likely wouldn’t match my normal cocktail preferences. Still, it’s good to try new things!
Final Thoughts?
The atmosphere and setting made me giddy and happy. The service and staff were flawless and the right amount of friendly and attentive, without being overbearing.
I can’t wait to indulge in brinner more often and am glad to have a spot that I don’t have to worry about rushing to before the breakfast menu ends for the day. I was also pleasantly surprised as how comparatively affordable it was!
Another great addition to the neighbourhood and, most likely, a new haunt of mine.
Damn it, you guys got me again. <Marlon Brando voice> Stel-la!!
If you’re looking for more great food content, check out Colette’s guide to Dublin cocktail bars and Emma’s love letter to cooking shows.
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