Starbucks

You know what you're getting when you walk into this glass-fronted spot on George's Quay – the same dependable Starbucks formula that works whether you need it or not. The location does it favours though, sitting right on the Liffey with decent views if you snag a window seat upstairs. It's handy for anyone working in the Docklands or killing time before heading into Temple Bar proper. The usual suspects are all here – overpriced lattes, aggressively air-conditioned seating, and that particular brand of American coffee shop efficiency. But fair play, the WiFi actually works, the staff keep things moving during the morning rush, and when you're desperate for caffeine after a night out nearby, it does the job. Not exactly inspiring, but reliably functional.