Famous for their irresistible cakes and desserts, the French Quarter Café has been delighting the lucky people of Tipperary Town since 2007 - and, increasingly, attracting visitors too.
It's run by Tipperary native, Annemarie, and her partner Loic, who is from Brittany, and - although it may be hard not to think about the sweet treats first - the stated aim is 'to serve good quality, affordable and healthy food, plus tasty homemade desserts'. And that they certainly achieve very successfully with all of their good things, both savoury and sweet, being equally delicious.
Great coffees are a draw in the morning - perfect with a toasted bagel with crispy bacon and the local Emmental cheese, or just a freshly baked scone - and then there are some more substantial choices when lunch comes around.
Excellent soups include a daily changing choice and their speciality seafood chowder, both served with with freshly baked brown bread and butter, and there's a wide range of gourmet sandwiches, panini and bagels to choose from too. But, for many regulars, the main reason for popping in at lunchtime is the super French tarts and quiches that mix and match so well with their lovely salads to make a seriously delicious lunch.
To drink, there are smoothies and milk shakes, for both adults and kids, plus a range of fairtrade coffees and teas - which just beg for a sweet treat on the side.
While there's no doubt about the healthiness of much that's on offer, the French Quarter Café is the kind of place that could make your sweet tooth insist that you take a detour off the M8 and head for Tipp. And, on the way in to the town, there is a sign that wlll bring a smile: "Welcome. You've come a long way!”
