Saturday 6 July 2013

Avoca Store And Cafe - Arthur Street - Belfast


Last Tuesday I was having one of those lazy days, you know, when you can’t really decide what to cook or even be bothered cooking anything at all. I had a choice: either to starve myself or head out someplace nice. Somehow the starvation didn’t seem that much of an option and I ended up in Avoca’s Café.

Oh my god, I absolutely loved the place. Between the crowded shelves of the epicerie and the buzzing and warm atmosphere of the café, I just felt like I had discovered a little piece of heaven. After wandering about for a while staring at the many treasures carefully picked from England, Belgium, France, Switzerland and so on…I was dragged to the lunch area by a divine smell of hot food and freshly baked pastries.


The window displays were fabulous, full of superb cakes, buttery scones and shortbreads, fluffy muffins and lovely cupcakes until the last one filled with an abundance of savory dishes such as chicken and broccoli crumble, homemade lasagna  various salads and original sandwiches…



I must admit I had a hard time making up my mind but finally opted for a beautiful looking “ham, cheddar and leek quiche”. It was a great surprise. I am often disappointed by that dish as I think it never really tastes as good as it does in France, cradle of the famous Quiche Lorraine; but this time it wasn’t the case! The crust was rich and crisp without feeling dry. The batter was marvelously light and generously layered with smoked ham, tasty cheddar and fondant leeks. It came with a side of roquette seasoned to the perfection with vinaigrette exploding with flavors.


I was not hungry anymore after that but I will definitely come back a few times to try some of the cakes. The Ultimate Chocolate Cake looked terribly decadent and very appealing to the chocolate lover that I am. There were also a beautiful berry cheesecake and a frangipane and pear pie that I am dying to try.
Brilliant experience! I highly recommend it for lunch, teatime or even to take away for a treat breakfast the next morning.

1 comment:

  1. I can't wait to come and try one of these cakes ! Thank you for the advice !!

    ReplyDelete