Aside from regular walking expeditions along the promenade, I visit Portobello every six months to see my dentist. After a clean bill of dental health was confirmed, I was in need of breakfast goods, so took myself the short distance along the High Street to Izzy’s, a little cafe whose sign I’d noticed, on my way past.

Exterior

With just a few shelf seats, the place is primarily a takeaway shop, offering breakfast rolls and a range of snack and lunchtime treats. I noticed some good looking pies on their counter, along with some tempting empire biscuits.

Before 10.30am, their breakfast deal offers a “doubler” roll and hot drink of your choice for the princely sum of £2.50. I was happy to go with that, so ordered a black pudding and bacon roll, accompanied by an espresso.

Roll

The counter women were full of good banter, as they merrily prepared my items, with the roll filling cooked to order.

The roll looked extremely impressive when it arrived, with a good portion of both bacon and black pudding making it a generously stuffed beast. I applied the required brown sauce, which I strongly feared was likely to be the prelude to yet another ruined tie.

Interior

The roll proved to be excellent, with good thick bacon, at least three rashers, combining well with the hot and plentiful black pudding. The fresh morning roll held things together very nicely.

I imagine the place sells a lot more builder’s tea than espresso, but I was pleased with what they served, as it had good, strong flavour.

So overall, Izzy’s hit the nail on the head, very nicely. Their breakfast roll was just lovely, and a very filling start to the day. The value on offer is high, so it’s well worth popping in for a visit, next time you’re looking for a meaty start to your day.

Scores
Blythe scores Izzy’s
4/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
3/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 14/20

Today’s quester was: Blythe

I ate: bacon and black pudding “doubler” roll

I drank: espresso

I wore: pale yellow shirt

Total bill: £2.50