The town of Killarney boasts one of the richest food scenes in Ireland. Its wealth of options means that there is something to suit all tastes – whether you’re looking for something simple that the whole family can enjoy, or a once in a lifetime haute-cuisine experience. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy a diverse offering of traditional Irish fare along with more modern cuisines in one of the country’s finest best gourmet destinations.
What’s more, you can rest assured that any food you eat has been made using the best local products that Kerry has to offer. Between the area’s internationally-acclaimed dairy, high-quality meats, freshly-caught seafood and delicious local produce; you will certainly be in for a treat. What’s more, you can wash down your meal with one of the locality’s top-class whiskey, spirit or craft beer brands.
If you’re looking to get a flavour of traditional Irish food during your trip to Killarney, then there are a few things that you simply cannot miss:
The Brasserie restaurant boasts a charming terrace with views of the lakes for relaxed al fresco dining. Meat-lovers will relish the opportunity to see steaks cooked in front of them by award-winning chefs on an open grill.
For a truly unforgettable experience, The Europe Hotel’s Panorama restaurant is a must. With its modern interiors and expansive windows, this surely is the best way to soak in the magnificent grandeur of Lough Leane and the McGillycuddy Reeks. Devised by the prestigious head chef Alex Nahke, the eatery’s unique ever-changing menu puts seasonal produce and local suppliers at the centre. It’s no surprise then that the Panorama was awarded the title of ‘Best Hotel Restaurant in Kerry’ at the Irish Restaurant Awards in 2015.
For a more chilled-out dining experience, why not indulge yourself in some Italian-inspired snacks and sweet delights at the hotel’s Spa Café? Overlooking the lake and gardens it also offers al fresco dining on the covered terrace and is truly a treat for all the senses!
Like The Europe, the Dunloe Hotel also offers a choice of dining options. The stylish Grill Restaurant allows you to enjoy delicious food while taking in fantastic views of the Gap of Dunloe from its enormous six-metre windows. A rave review from the esteemed food critic Lucinda O’Sullivan described the restaurant’s fare as:
“Showcasing local and artisan food, the daytime menu offers really good casual food from snacks and salads to posh sandwiches to more substantial mains.”
For a more relaxed affair, you can also dine in the hotel’s cosy bar which offers a delicious array of casual foods. Music lovers should also make a point of booking the Jazz Sunday lunch.
The Dunloe is also a great location for occasion dining be it for a birthday party, anniversary dinner or a simple catch-up with old friends. The Club Room offers private dining for up to 50 guests and is perfect for an intimate get-together.
Located off the beaten path in the most idyllic of settings, the Ard na Sidhe Hotel is a stunning country house that looks out over the serene Caragh lake. Cosy, intimate and romantic, Ard na Sidhe is a great choice for couples seeking a secluded escape or stressed-out people in need of some relaxation. The hotel’s feel-good food offering is at once sophisticated and comforting. Cooked to perfection by the talented head chef, the menu showcases the very best that the area has to offer such as including fresh Atlantic fish, the finest Kerry lamb, local cheeses and just-picked summer fruits. The hotel is particularly well-known for its Afternoon Tea which is served on a breath-taking raised terrace overlooking the lake.
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