Roasted Brown sits above Filmbase in Temple Bar. It’s all glass and metal and wood, mismatched tables and huge windows. When I order an espresso, the barista tells me that they roast their own beans, and excitedly describes the different options. I ask for a cake to go with the coffee, and at once a triangle of fudgy brownie is handed to me. I try to wait, but it smells too good, and it tastes even better. The sea salt scattered on top finely counters the richness of the gooey cake. Then my espresso comes. This is juicy, fruity and complex. Acidity and sweetness balance perfectly, with no hint of bitterness. It’s impossibly syrupy and every sip leaves me with the taste of berries. The other offerings in Roasted Brown are great too. Probably. I might find out if I ever manage to order anything but the espresso with a side of brownie.

Photos by Aoibheann Schwartz.

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