Kilkenny has a vibrant food landscape, our local food producers provide our cafes with the best quality ingredients for YOU! So, after a busy morning of exploring the best that Kilkenny has to offer, why not try what our cafés have to offer? Savoury or sweet, sit in or soak up the sun outside, we have a place to fit your every need.
Arán Bakery and Bistro
Well-known in the bakery industry, Arán Bakery and Bistro were awarded the ‘Supreme Champions’ of Blas na hÉireann in 2022 and for a good reason. Their sourdough loaves and pastry innovations are a sight (and a taste) to behold. They work on a walk-in basis so tables are first come, first served – so get in early and try everything!
Bridie’s Bar and General Store
Here’s one for the Instagram feed! Bridie’s Bar and General Store is very popular with the locals and provides us with some old-school grocer’s charm. With pastries baked fresh every morning, top-quality coffee and a stunning walled garden to enjoy them in, you can’t go wrong. Take a moment to yourself in their walled garden at the rear and bring the doggo with you.
Butler Gallery
Ever wanted to have coffee in a greenhouse? Well, now you can! Wild Flower Café, is open 6 days a week in Butler Gallery (on the ground floor) pop in for coffee, brunch, lunch and other tasty treats with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options available! Oh, and did we mention it’s dog friendly?
Café La Coco
Based in the heart of Kilkenny City, Café La Coco has recently won an award for Sweet Treat of the Year in the Irish Takeaway Awards and we can see why! With innovative-tasting treats that are Insta-worthy and pooch-friendly. Lounge with your furry friends and people-watch for the day with a fluffy cappuccino in hand!
Cakeface
Cakes from a world of pure imagination! Cakeface delivers a unique twist on the way we are used to seeing desserts. The patisserie offers savoury or sweet options, catering for vegetarians and vegans alike, as well as coffee from their own roastery. What a treat!
Kilkenny Café
Located in the Kilkenny Design Centre, Kilkenny Café is a new arrival to the food scene in the city. The café is dedicated to showcasing the best of local cuisine, using ingredients from Kilkenny food and drink producers. Enjoy delectable delights while taking in their iconic neighbour, Kilkenny Castle.
Marble City Bar and Tea Rooms
Just down the road from Langton’s hotel, you’ll find Marble City Bar and Tea Rooms, one of the oldest and most well-loved bars in Kilkenny. Downstairs, you will find the Tea Rooms look out onto a busy pedestrian street, where you can sit down with a coffee and watch the world go by. Get a good feed from their broad menu or maybe just a sweet treat before hitting the town again!
Nicholas Mosse Pottery
Situated in an old stone mill in Bennettsbridge is the Nicholas Mosse Irish Country Shop. A cosy setting to enjoy homemade delights and a pot of tea. You can also catch a glimpse of the masters at work, painting the Nicholas Mosse pieces by hand! Located 5 minutes from the City Centre, it’s a nice break from the bustle.
Nóinín
Run by sisters Maeve and Sinéad Moclair, Nóinín is a hidden gem on John’s Bridge, offering a mellow and homely atmosphere. Using top-quality local ingredients, they create seasonal dishes and regularly change their menu with innovative culinary creations.
Oh!Donuts
Oh!Donuts is a new addition to the Kilkenny food scene, located on the High Street in a bright pink storefront, you can’t miss it! Serving artisan donuts, ice cream and speciality coffees 6 days a week, what more could you ask for?
Ted’s Coffee House
Ted’s Coffee House is conveniently located in the reception of Kilkenny House Boutique Hotel across from St.Luke’s Hospital. Serving barista coffees, speciality teas, sweet treats, soup, sandwiches, lunches, pizzas and desserts. A great selection of hearty foods in a comfortable environment.
The Black Cat Café
Become an eye in the sky at The Black Cat Café on the top floor of the large Intersport Elverys building, kick back and relax with quality barista coffee. Overlooking the rooftops of the medieval city, what better place to meet up for breakfast or lunch?
The Book & Coffee Shop
The coffee shop of dreams for any book-lover! Cosy and quiet, while being surrounded by hundreds of secondhand books. Lose yourself in the scents of freshly brewed coffee and homemade treats at The Book & Coffee Shop on William St. Bring the kids and have some quiet time with their selection of classic children’s books.
The Loop Café
Home to the Saturday organic community market, The Loop is a hub of local activity in Freshford. Not only do they serve breakfasts, light lunches, soup and sandwiches, sweet treats, barista coffees and teas, but they also host a Friday night supper club on occasion.
The Pantry
Located on Kieran St., is a very busy café that is renowned for its Breakfast Special, The Pantry prepares freshly cooked food. An in-house bakery ensures that freshly made breads, pastries and desserts are always available for dine-in or takeaway. Situated on a busy pedestrian street, they have an outdoor seating area, so you can observe the goings-on of the dynamic city.
The Pink Box Artisan Bakery
Another pink landmark on the streets of Kilkenny, this viennoiserie creates jaw-dropping pastries with colourful fillings. Offering sweet and savoury options, The Pink Box gives us a new twist on the traditional sausage roll that we’re used to seeing. They also offer catering options for all of your event needs, wrapped up in a pretty pink box!
Windgap Community Centre and Lakeside Tearooms
Opened in Callan in 2019, the residents of Windgap pulled together to set up the Lakeside Shop & Tearooms to create a great meeting spot for all weathers, with a lovely outdoor area for the days when the sun shines! They curate a weekly special menu with homemade goodies with everything from roast dinners to bangers and mash!
Woodstock Tea Rooms
Get your steps in with your four-legged friends and head for lunch at the Woodstock Tea Rooms, located in the stunning Turner Conservatory overlooking the flower terraces, the scent of freshly made coffee will greet you at the door. Pair it with a sweet treat as a reward for getting back to nature!
So, where will the first stop (of many!) on your food adventures in Kilkenny?
Tag us in your food photos on social media using the hashtag #VisitKilkenny!
