Approaching the East Link Bridge from Ringsend, your gastronomic juices may be aroused by the sight and smells emitting from Deke’s Diner, situated off the South Dock Road.

Otherwise known as the Hound Dog Café, this double-named eatery is a very popular port of call for truckers, travellers, taxi drivers, school children and anybody else who happens to be passing through the South Docks area.

Set up by former port manager and erstwhile Elvis impersonator, Deke Rivers, (a name he borrowed from a Presley movie), the Hound Dog Café has been open for business in its current premises since last August.

Operating from 9 to 5 Monday to Friday and recently Saturday morning as well, Deke along with his assistant Jackie provide breakfast, lunches and snacks throughout the day to all comers.

There is space for people to enjoy their food and drink in the diner but a lot of Deke’s clientele take the ‘meals on wheels’ approach and opt to consume their cuisine in the cab of their lorries.

Deke describes his produce as ‘Ryanair food’ in that it is basic, no frills attached but very good value for money. A typical meal consisting of meat and two veg would cost you €6.50. Doubtless Michael O’Leary would be impressed with that low cost.

As you might expect from its locality, Deke’s Diner attracts customers from many different countries. A Polish flag flies proudly over the premises and Deke is in the process of printing the menu in at least two east European languages, which must be a first for any Dublin dining facility.

A popular character within the area and very much involved in the local community through his support and sponsorship of CYMS football club and St. Patrick’s Rowing Club, Deke also has plans to expand into outside catering. There is also a Deke’s Diner on the northside of the docks to be considered.

In the meantime, Jackie and Mister Rivers, pictured right, will always find the time to rustle up some good, honest grub for you. And if you are lucky, the king of catering might even sing you an Elvis number while you wait!