“Start as you mean to go on,” my grandfather said as he embarked upon his third marriage. With this in mind, I thought what better place to start my culinary adventures in Trinity than at the legendary Pav. Having arrived in early to catch the Bikefixer, a man who fixes bikes every Friday beside the Pav, I decided a good old Irish breakfast was in order. Never having frequented this bar before, and being an atypical Irishman who refuses to ask anyone for assistance or directions, it took me a few moments to figure out that I needed to climb the metal staircase to gain access to this Trinity icon. This trait also resulted in an awkward visit to the area where the food is prepared, where I silently observed the chef. Having finally observed a sign that said, “Please order at the bar”, I made a note to self: “must be less of a stubborn Irish male.”

Every breakfast requirement is on the menu, from omelettes and popular cooked breakfast items, to porridge for the more health conscious. I ordered the Irish breakfast with black coffee. “That will be a fiver, mate.” I coughed and spluttered. “A fiver,” I croaked, afraid to say it out loud in case it was a mistake. “And how much is the coffee?” I, almost tearful, definitely emotional, asked. “It’s all included in the price of the breakfast, mate.”

I nearly wanted to embrace him, this chap, my mate, but steadied myself in time. The breakfast was lovely. Five items; bacon, sausage, egg, pudding, beans, obligatory toast; and amazingly, a lovely little pot of coffee. I will be returning to this fine establishment again. I believe their evening menu is just as reasonable, and the Bikefixer told me you can get a pitcher of beer for €8.50… that’s three pints!