Kilkenny was named Ireland’s Top Foodie Destination in 2018 and if you have ever dined here, you’ll know why! If you haven’t yet sampled the delights of our food scene, we’re here to help you plan a tasty trip to the Marble County. One thing that you can be guaranteed to find on menus across the county is ingredients from award-winning local producers (learn more about them here). Kilkenny is a haven for food lovers, so give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the culinary experience that the county has to offer for breakfast, lunch and dinner!
This is an A to Z guide to restaurants in County Kilkenny.
Aroi Asian Fusion
Aroi serves up delicious fusion Asian cuisine. Their menu features a wide range of dishes, from traditional Thai curries to Vietnamese pho and Chinese stir-fries. They combine authentic flavours with modern twists, using fresh ingredients to create tasty dishes that will get your taste buds tingling.
Arán Bakery & Bistro
Arán Bakery & Bistro is known nationwide for its award-winning breads and pastries. However, it is also home to a fantastic bistro that offers a relaxed dining experience. Led by husband and wife Bart Pawlukojc and Nicole Server-Pawlukojc worked together at Noma in Copenhagen – one of the top restaurants in the world – Arán brings you a taste of what they’ve learnt from all over the world.
Butcher Restaurant
Butcher is a contemporary steakhouse that prides itself on serving top-quality meat cooked to perfection. They source their beef from local farmers, ensuring the highest standards of taste and freshness. Alongside their selection of prime cuts, Butcher also offers a variety of dishes to suit all palates such as seafood, vegetarian options and delectable desserts.
Nóinín
Looking out onto scenic John’s Bridge in the heart of Kilkenny city, this cosy and intimate restaurant serves up an eclectic range of dishes on its regularly changing menu. While the menu draws its influences from around the world, the focus is firmly on showcasing Kilkenny’s fantastic local produce. Complementing the food menu is a small, well-curated wine list.
Paris Texas Bar & Smokehouse
Paris Texas is located in the heart of Kilkenny city and is known as one of the leading gastropubs in the south east of Ireland. It is home to a wood-smoking oven, offering a fusion of traditional American South West favourites with the sophistication of New Orleans French Quarter. There is also an extensive range of beers on tap and in bottle to meet and challenge your tastes – just as their food does.
Petronella Restaurant
Petronella has a unique location on the historical Butterslip Lane. Its modern Irish and European cuisine create a charming dining experience, whether over a brisk lunch, leisurely evening meal or time set aside for an all-important coffee. Most of all, be sure to ask the friendly team to tell you about Petronella herself. There is also an extensive vegetarian and vegan menu inspired by Wolfwalkers – a film created by Kilkenny’s Oscar-nominated animation studio Cartoon Saloon.
Ristorante Rinuccini
Food and family are at the heart of Italian culture and at the heart of Ristorante Rinuccini – a family-owned and run, multi award-winning fine dining restaurant located in the heart of Kilkenny city. Specialising in classic Italian cuisine, made using the finest of Italian and fresh Irish ingredients, they boast an extensive menu selection and wines are handpicked from the very best Italian vineyards.
The Greenhouse Bar & Eatery
Located at Mountain View, The Greenhouse brings a dash of glamour to the hills of Ballyhale. Enjoy delicious, hearty meals and expertly mixed cocktails with unrivalled views of the Kilkenny countryside. It is a stylish location offering a relaxed dining experience. Prefer brunch? They also have a mouthwatering brunch menu!
Zuni Restaurant
Whatever time of the day you dine here, you’ll quickly discover why Zuni Restaurant is multi award-winning. Savour the flavour of delicious dishes incorporating ingredients from Kilkenny’s local food producers. Make sure to sample a perfectly mixed cocktail from their chic cocktail bar after dinner!
So, where will the first stop on your culinary adventure in Kilkenny be? Tag us in your food photos on social media using the hashtag #VisitKilkenny!
Pssst! Food lovers, we have even more guides to dining in Kilkenny coming up including hotel restaurants, gastropubs, brunch spots and more. Follow us on social media for all of the latest.
