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More than a Menu

If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience that’s more than just the menu itself, look no further than Kilkenny. From delicate petit fours, afternoon tea on fine china and cafes and gastro bistros to five star Michelin star opulence in atmospheric surroundings. Make your visit one to write home about with an unforgettable dining experience in one of our Kilkenny favourites.

Lady Eleanor Afternoon Tea at Butler House

Butler House and Garden, an intimate, historic hotel with a five-star feel, and stunning, manicured gardens makes a beautiful backdrop for afternoon tea. The splendour of the gardens alone merits a visit, but the daily afternoon tea featuring honey-baked ham on malt harvest bread, madeleines filled with salted butter caramel, free-range eggs and home-made buttermilk scones and much more, makes your visit that extra bit fancy!

  • Afternoon tea costs €29 per person, or €35 with a glass of Prosecco.
  • If you need your afternoon tea to be gluten free, or have some other dietary request, please let them know in advance.

A Cultural Experience to Savour at Fennelly's of Callan

Culture meets cuisine at this unique coffee shop, bar and arts space in the centre of Callan. Adventure always awaits behind its busy doors. Whether it’s local musicians, poetry classes or literature, or a pilates class, it’s clear that the emphasis is as focused on the community as it is the local produce. A hidden courtyard out back and curious conversations are only the beginning of the unique experience that you’re bound to have here on any given day, and that’s before you even sample the amazing food!

  • It’s open from 7.30am until 3pm (10am to 4pm Saturdays) and is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays.

With great food, great service and plenty of atmosphere, a visit to Fennelly's is not to be missed. Check out their many events - this really is a super spot and very different

― Lucinda O'Sullivan, food writer

Award-winning Food and Views in Anocht at Kilkenny Design Centre

The Kilkenny Design Centre was originally part of a large complex of buildings attached to the castle that housed a dairy, stables, coach houses and accommodation for grooms. The historic dining room was built in the 1760s as grain stores for the Earl of Ormonde’s horses, making it one of Kilkenny’s most unique venues.

The food is amazing and the view out presents a marvellous vista, so take a window seat to enjoy the uninterrupted view of Kilkenny Castle. The menu is inspired by great Irish ingredients, the service is impeccable, and the atmosphere makes for a wonderful experience to remember. This is fine dining with a difference.

The beautiful room with it’s wooden beams and rich oak is a perfect spot to relax and soak up what Kilkenny is renown for, good food and a rich history steeped in arts and crafts.

― TheTaste.ie

Fine Dining Italian Style at Rinuccini

The wall to wall displays of awards, fabulous old-world style and tuxedoed waiters are synonymous with Ristorante Rinuccini where you are guaranteed a delight of Italian cuisine and fine dining at its best. Impeccable service and an excellent Italian menu is part of the deal. Rinuccini is passionate about authentic Italian food and boasts an extensive selection of zuppe, pate, salads, pastas, meats and delicious dolci, many of the ingredients sourced from artisan producers all over Italy. They also champion local produce.

“The Cavaliere family’s Ristorante Rinuccini, which, besides being probably the best Italian restaurant in the county, is one of the best restaurants in Ireland.”

― Lucinda O'Sullivan

A Welcome Surprise at Meubles Cafe

For a more relaxed dining experience, the first floor of Meubles features a bustling cafe and restaurant. After a spot of bespoke furniture shopping downstairs, park yourself down on one of the comfortable sofas and enjoy an excellent breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. The kids’ area and children’s menu make Meubles the perfect spot to wile away an afternoon en famille.

  • Located in Kilkenny’s Retail Park.
  • Open 7 days a week with ample parking.

Discover a Treasure Chest at The Hub Cafe, Thomastown

You’ll find more than delicious home baked goods, a relaxed environment and great service at The Hub Cafe in the centre of Thomastown. Here, independent retailers stock a range of delightful, eclectic, second-hand and vintage wares, from home-made accessories and original gifts, to furniture, crockery and other old-school beauties. When you’ve found your bargain, as we know you will, pull up a chair, grab a book from the bursting bookshelf, order one of the best hot chocolates in town and a slice of cake, and prepare to spend an afternoon relaxing.

  • Open 7 days a week.

There’s so much to find in this quirky mini shop!

Visit www.tastekilkenny.ie for more information