It might be just a little bit hard to find, but Govinda's is definitely worth searching for. Besides which, it's in a nice area, both for book and music shopping (Road Records is small, but excellent, and the Market Arcade has one of the best second-hand bookstalls in the city), and also for a nice drink afterwards - the Long Hall if you want a peaceful pint (shameless link to my other review), or the Capitol if you're looking for something a bit busier. But Govinda's has plenty of good things to offer on its own, and you won't find better vegetarian in Dublin. Not at the same price, anyway.

Run by members of Dublin's Hare Krishna community, Govinda's offers a buffet-style vegetarian fare at very low prices. They have daily specials (maybe a vegetable moussake, or a lasagne), and regular dishes like lentil dhal or an absolutely wonderful paneer (homemade cottage cheese) in a spicy tomato sauce. Alternatively, they offer a few other regulars - the best vegetable burger I have ever had (though this wouldn't be difficult), and pizza, somosas, etc.

It's a fairly substantial menu, and if memory serves, nothing costs over a fiver, which is a bonus for Dublin's often wildly overpriced restaurant market. The paneer-type dishes can be bought on either a small plate (£2.95), or a large plate (£4.95), which the ultra-friendly staff are more than willing to load with as much food as you think you can carry. Others are served with salad or rice.

They also offer a range of desserts, which are generally very tasty, if not delicious. Personal favourites of mine are the coconut balls, or gram-flour fudge, both costing about 50p each - heaven.

I can't recommend this place highly enough. The people are lovley, he food is delicious and extremely good value, and the atmosphere is nice and relaxed. And no, they don't try to convert you to their Hare Krishna ways, although a limited number of publications
and trinkets are on sale. And when you're finished wandering around the area (which I would recommend), it's an easy walk back to Grafton Street, probably Dublin's premier shopping street.

Thoroughly recommended, all in all, for natives and visitors, vegetarians and meat-eaters. I can't say I know if vegans are catered for, but I can only assume so.