I love grungy diners. Well, I don’t mean grungy in a bad way, really. I’m talking about the kind of place that has attitude, offers something a bit wacky and different, and always attracts the most interesting clientele! Well, at least they’re not the same faces that I usually see around…

One of my most recent visits to such a spot was to The Nob, which is in Bromwell Street in Woodstock. It’s a cool red-and-black room with a long, black, lacquered table and vinyls used as placemats. The room is populated with paraphernalia from the early 80s, like Pac-Man and pinball machines that actually work. That’s probably why I related to it so well!

The Nob Burger Cafe photo by ©Paul Hofman Photography 2013. All rights Reserved

Even more relatable were the burgers. My attention was caught by an oversized beauty named The Porra, priced at only 70 ront! The juicy beef patty was smothered with a garlic sauce and topped with lettuce, onion, gherkin and tomato slices. I recognised Sam, our waitress, by her beautiful tattoos, which I remembered from when she looked after our table at Frères Bistro at the bottom end of Bree Street.

Lefty’s

Shortly after that, I discovered Lefty’s in Harrington Street. What a breath of fresh air! Although, I must be honest, it was hair that I first noticed at the bar… from skinheads to Mohicans. I was the oldest person in the room, but had loads of fun – and the food is delicious. I reckon their sticky spare ribs are right up there with the best. I could have had another round, but instead opted for a pulled pork bun made in the smoker in the courtyard. The bunny chow was also perfect!

Lefty’s

I would be happy to recommend both places to my friends, colleagues and you, dear readers. Give it a try! The ‘scenery’ is bound to be interesting and the food definitely something to write about.