Top 5 Local Coffee Spots in Kildare
If you are a coffee fiend like us, you will know how disappointing it is when you’re out and about and craving a caffeine kick but Google Maps tries to tell you that the closest coffee shop is a Starbucks or Costa Coffee. This happens because these multinational companies pay exquisite amounts to Google to advertise their shops at the top of your search, but what you may not know is that there is a treasure trove of incredible coffee spots in and around Kildare – you just have to find them (or, at least read this blog)!
We have compiled a list of our top 5 independent coffee shops in Kildare, outlined below. Let us know if you have tried any of these locations or if there is anywhere that we’ve missed!
5. Square – Main Street, Kildare Village
Square is a locally owned coffee shop situated on the Main Street in Kildare Village. Its owners boast an enthusiasm for locally produced coffee beans (grown in Kilcullen!) and also source their excellent range of pastries and cakes from local bakers as well. Dropping into this coffee shop is an excellent way to support a local business whilst also getting your coffee fix. It is also living proof that good coffee doesn’t need to be produced miles and miles away!
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4. Dubh – 10 George’s Street, Newbridge
Originally occupying a space across the street, Dubh moved into its new premises in 2021 and now faces the Old Market Square in Newbridge. They have revolutionised their menu with the expansion of the new premises and now offer a full food menu in addition to its well-renowned coffees. Brunch café by day and tasteful eatery by night, this is a perfect spot for readers of our blog as it combines coffee and alcohol to create a cosy, intimate atmosphere right in the heart of Newbridge. They offer extensive vegan options and often host special events on different evening’s during the week, such as game nights and live music. Be sure to check this place out and let us know what you think!
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3. Strong’s Café and Bistro – Market Square, Kildare Village
Strong’s Café is a family-owned establishment located in Market Square in Kildare Village. They brew their delicious coffees using a special blend all the way from El Salvador, which is an award-winning blend in Ireland, and they also offer a large menu of homecooked meals which cater for many different diets. They use locally-sourced ingredients for their meals and along with Square, is a fantastic way to support the local economy by visiting. Their coffee is just incredible and along with the cosy and comfortable décor of the premises, sitting there with a cup of their finest coffee and watching the world go by can make you feel miles away from where you really are. A perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of life.
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2. Bad Habits – Basin Street, Naas
If you have ever wandered along the canal in Naas and suddenly smelt an incredible aroma of roasted coffee beans, it is extremely probable that this scent is wafting from Bad Habits. Bad Habits is a sister café to Dubh (mentioned above) and is located on Basin Street in Naas. They ethically source their beans and are known for their seasonal menus and delicious selection of pastries, and the staff are always super friendly and up for a chat. It’s a great, bubbly atmosphere in this coffee shop and if you visit and enjoy their coffee, they even sell bags of the beans both instore and on their online shop! We highly recommend this spot if you are in the area and looking for a lift in mood.
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Hey, Darling – Monread South, Naas
Hey, Darling opened up in Naas in summer 2022 and quickly became a firm favourite among locals. Boasting a menu of various pastries and sweet treats, delicious, rich coffee and hot meals catered to all dietary needs, it is no surprise that this coffee place has landed at number one on our list. They are even pet-friendly, so make sure to bring your furry friends with you to avail of a “pup cup”! As a bonus, it opens at 08:30am on a Sunday, which is so rare for a coffee shop, so it is the perfect place to drop into during your morning walk, or even if you are looking to get some work done with a warm beverage at your side.
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So there you have it - our top five coffee spots around Kildare. We told you it wasn't just Starbucks! We would love to know if you try any of these places and your opinions. We would also be excited to hear your suggestions, too! We hope this list has been helpful to not only locals trying to find their new favourite cup, but also visitors to the area who are looking to try something different whilst supporting local businesses.
