One of the well known ‘Itsa’ restaurants run by sisters Domini and Peaches Kemp, this self-service restaurant is located next to the bookshop in the basement of the north wing which makes up one side of the IMMA quadrangle, and is accessed by going through the main museum entrance and across the courtyard.
would make for – it’s a pleasing space once you get there.
There’s a great European style al fresco dining area set up with about ten tables in the courtyard and, once inside, a small reception area with couches and small tables, which is ideal for those stopping in for just a coffee. The café is a brightly decorated long narrow arched room with pleasant staff on hand and andvarious art, not all modern in style, on display and for sale.
The food offered includes the full range of ItsaBagel bagels and a selection of pastries and cakes, plus a couple of hot dishes (the fish pie is a speciality) and the usual soups, quiches, sausage rolls and salads. Good baking is a strength, and all the pastries and cakes are particularly appealing.
While this can be a mixed experience, especially at busy times when the range offered may be depleted, the ingredients used are top quality and everything is cooked from scratch at Itsa's kitchens nearby in Sandyford.
Healthy cooking methods (eg grilling or poaching) are used where possible, and low fat, vegetarian and coeliac friendly options are available. Children's options include baked good is smaller portion sizes, a good idea that should be offered more widely.
Drinks include very good smoothies, Alchemy cold-pressed juices and a small but adequate selection of wine.
While not a destination restaurant (which it could well be), itsa@IMMA provides a pleasant pitstop for visitors to IMMA, and the general area, in need of rest and refreshment.
