Waterford is a busy place – it’s a city, after all.
So next time you’re in town, don’t rush past the inviting façade of The Olive Café on Barronstrand Street. Inside, you’ll find food and coffee worth lingering over, and a welcome that’ll keep you coming back.
Recently, The Olive Café became proud members of Taste Waterford. In June, Taste Waterford’s project manager, Richard Povey, met with owners Krisztina and Wayne Halloran who are serving up warmth, community, and food that shines.
Here’s their journey…
Taking over the café was a chance opportunity the couple couldn’t pass up. Already a beloved local spot, The Olive Café was looking for new owners – something Krisztina and Wayne had quietly hoped might come their way.
“We’d been keen on a new venture and heard the café was up for sale,” says Krisztina. “We didn’t think the timing would work out, but when it did, we jumped at the chance.”
Before the café, they ran a successful food truck called Hungary Bites – a name that cleverly plays on Krisztina’s Hungarian heritage and their customers’ hearty appetites.
The truck built a loyal following thanks to its flavourful food and genuine hospitality – values that remain central to the café today.
Wayne brings years of culinary experience to the table, having worked as head chef in several restaurants and a local hotel. He’s also the winner of the 2004 Chef Factor competition at Ballymaloe Cookery School.
Krisztina, too, has a strong background in the kitchen. Most recently, she worked as head chef in a well-known local gastro bar, bringing a flair for bold flavours and creative presentation to every dish.
When they took over the café in September 2024 – formerly a butcher shop – they wasted no time in making it their own.
“We put love into everything we do,” says Wayne. “It’s about offering a friendly service and creating a sense of community – that’s been key from the start.”
Step inside and you’re greeted by a playful neon sign that reads “hungary?” – a nod to their roots and a wink to those in the know.
Then comes the coffee.
“Our house blend is totally unique – you won’t find it anywhere else in the world,” says Krisztina. “We partnered with roasters in Tramore and spent time sampling different beans until we found the perfect combination.”
From there, take a seat in the earthy, boho-style upstairs dining room or settle at a table outside to watch the world go by. Wherever you land, the menu is a celebration of breakfast, lunch, and indulgent sweet treats.
Customer favourites include classic and vegan breakfasts, a three-egg omelette, crepes with tempting toppings, hearty soups, fresh salads, and creamy pastas. The ever-popular avocado on toast makes a daily appearance, too.
And, of course, dietary needs are thoughtfully catered for.
You’ll also spot plenty of local pride on the seasonal menu. “I grew up just around the corner,” Wayne shares, “so we’re passionate about supporting local producers wherever possible.”
Think tomatoes from Grantstown Nurseries, blaas from Walsh’s Bakehouse, greens from The Microgreen Queen, and meat from Jimmy, the local butcher from Widgers, to name a few.
One sweet success story? Chimney cakes.
“These are traditional where I’m from – usually eaten at Christmas,” says Krisztina. “But they’re so tasty, we wanted to share them year-round.” She hand-rolls the dough around cone-shaped wooden moulds, and as they bake, steam rises from the centre like a chimney. The final touch? Sweet or savoury fillings.
They’re served from the café’s front window, which also caters to takeaway customers. You can find them the last Sunday of every month so don’t miss out.
Coming soon, the couple plan to introduce Evenings at The Olive – a special dining experience showcasing the best of local ingredients with a twist.
Nearly a year into their café journey, Krisztina and Wayne have crafted a space where great food, great coffee, and genuine connection meet.
So next time you’re in Waterford, don’t walk on by – step in and discover a café that feels like home.
The Olive Café, Waterford. 24 Barronstrand Street, Waterford.
Monday – Saturday: 9:00am–4:00pm. Sunday: 10:00am–3:00pm.
www.theolivecafe.ie