One of Everything: Mad Yolks
Words: Shamim de Brún
One of Everything is a new series by Char where we go to the latest spots and try one of everything on the menu. On this week’s One of Everything: Mad Yolks
Mad Yolks is an egg-centric venture by brothers Hugh and Eoin O’Reilly. This new opening marks the beginning of a new chapter for the brothers, having secured a permanent venue after years on the pop-up scene. The spot is in Smithfield Square, adjacent to Jameson Distillery Bow Street and directly opposite The Lighthouse cinema. The decor is vibrant in a back and yellow aesthetic complimented by varnished wood and neon wall art. You can grab a bite at Mad Yolks from eight to four weekdays and nine to four on the weekends.
Who
Perfect for the mid-twenties brunch surfers. It has enough tables to accommodate large groups. Though it is egg-themed, there is enough variety on the menu to accommodate an eclectic group of people with varying dietary requirements. They have vegan and gluten-free options that are taste driven and well balanced. These selections feel purposefully included and not shoehorned in. The portions are big enough to sustain a tank of a man on the sandwich alone. The sides are portioned well for sharing with groups, but you may want to keep the hashbrowns all to yourself.
What occasion
Mad Yolks is a spot made for brunch. The staff are friendly and welcoming but casual, so it’s a perfect spot to rock up to on a Saturday morning with you’re few messy mates who aren’t into reservations. That’s not to say it won’t be busy, but the nature of the food is fast, so it lends itself well to the impulsive brunch group who need a hearty feed.
Best thing we ordered
Buff Yolk. Of all the sandwiches, this is the combo that went down best. The brioche is the perfect buttery toasted sweetness to mesh with the salt of the burger and cheese. No one would think smoked applewood cheddar would be the thing that brings a fried egg to life, but in the Bad Yolk, it was sensational enough to text a mate about. The dill pickles, rocket and dijonaise all came together to knock this one out of the park. Shout out to the veggie Yolko – Ono for almost claiming top spot even though none of us are carne-free.
Price Point
Mid-range affordable. You have to spend more than a fiver, but you don’t have to hit fifteen unless you’re going in on the mimosas. The sandwiches come in around a tenner and are filling enough to satiate even the h-angriest of your hungover crew.
Unique Selling Point
It’s obviously the eggs. Eggs are the perfect breakfast, and eggs made well are downright unbeatable. They have every version of an egg sandwich you can imagine with combinations of different breakfast food or funky lunch varieties. The smoked applewood cheddar goes better with eggs than some rashers, which is high praise for cheese!
Horable Mention
Halloumi soldiers with homemade chilli mayo. There’s a lot of sub-par halloumi floating around, giving this Mideastern cheese a rubbery name, but these lads have it done right. The mayonnaise is well spiced and brings out halloumi’s natural texture, and competes with its salty nature.
