Hobbes (CLOSED)

New on the bustling Avenue Bolivar in autumn 2014, Hobbes is a fresh addition to the neighbourhood, all fresh bright colours and organic vegetarian dishes. Named for the tiger rather than the philosopher, Bill Watterson annuals are liberally available to accompany your meal, which could be reason enough to visit in itself. As might be expected, the menu changes regularly depending on the seasons; our sample of the kitchen’s cooking began with a lovely lentil salad, a creamy celery soup with cubes of feta, cartoon-bright vegetable futomaki and the delicious plat du jour – vegetables cooked in coconut milk with tofu and quinoa. The table next to us was tucking into an enticing vegan burger, which we’ll be back to try. Mains are priced at around €10, for generous, flavourful servings.

Without being revolutionary, Hobbes more than does the job in making you feel cherished and revived, without splurging on calories or euros. That said, the desserts – carrot cake, cheesecake, granola, chocolate fondant – are hardly diet versions. The selection of teas, coffees, juices and milkshakes is excellent, making this an excellent pit-stop at breakfast and tea-time as well. Brunch is on offer on Sundays (€19, €13 for kids) and on Thursday evenings there’s a set menu at €21. All in all, Hobbes is very pleasing address.