Ireland’s lush countryside and robust agriculture are fostering a flourishing local culinary scene, from bustling dining rooms in Dublin to coastal cork shacks of Cork; new generations of chefs are elevating longstanding ingredients and culinary traditions into memorable culinary experiences.
Mickael Viljanen of Finnish descent brings Nordic cuisine back into Dublin through dishes like Hare Royale that showcase Northern European flavour and have culinary character.
1. Mamo
Visit this Michelin-star restaurant near Kilkenny for an experience that showcases Ireland’s natural larder. Located in a country house near Kilkenny, chef Paul McDonald creates flavorful dishes using produce from Mamo Farm and East Cork fishing boats, as well as his expertise shared through an international cookery school he runs alongside his team.
Kilkenny Restaurant is a stunning combination of style and tradition. Led by their award-winning chef and his team, this elegant venue serves contemporary dishes with French influences for lunch or dinner service – an impressive tasting menu or seasonal a la carte; both provide amazing flavors!
James Moore and Nicola O’Neill have built up quite the reputation as pioneers of casual seafood dining in Boston. Utilizing excellent local ingredients, their tasty original dishes offer surprising value. Furthermore, the friendly service team creates a warm ambience.
Terryglass Village Pub in Terryglass stands as an antidote to the big-name, overly glamorized eateries that have become common. Brothers Keelan and Aaron Higgs provide warm hospitality through both food and service – from set menu dishes served family style so you can try all their offerings to their honest cooking which demonstrates both honesty and generosity in its approach to preparation.
2. Moran’s
If you have been to Ireland, chances are you have experienced its culinary excellence – be it a waterfront dinner with views overlooking the ocean or enjoying some of the freshest fish ever offered up in a restaurant. But Ireland offers more than buzzing cities and fine dining venues; explore more than its lively cities or high-end dining rooms!
Dingle offers the quintessential Irish experience. This joyous County Kerry town brims with pleasure – from pubs and restaurants to a relaxed bohemian vibe that draws visitors from far and wide – as well as its iconic ice cream shop – for visitors seeking authentic Irish experiences.
Murphy’s Ice Cream stands out amongst its competition with award-winning treats from around the globe (like smoked salmon and Irish coffee) but they also take classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate further by using local ingredients from Dingle sea salt to caramelised brown bread for new twists.
Kinsale, Ireland is home to one of the finest One Michelin Star restaurants. Here, chef Paul and Helen McDonald serve up culinary creations that are highly sophisticated yet unpretentious; all while providing stunning ocean views from their dining room view.
3. Quay Street Kitchen
Quay Street Kitchen provides an authentic Irish dining experience in its cozy yet bustling restaurant. Serving modern cuisine featuring vegan and vegetarian options as well as offering gluten-free dishes without cross contamination, Quay Street Kitchen makes an ideal dining destination.
At this Galway gem, be sure to sample their signature seafood chowder. A delectable dish representing Ireland’s plentiful coastal waters, this creamy soup features seafood such as fish, shellfish, potatoes and vegetables, combined with white wine or whiskey for additional flavoring.
Since 1981, when its Michelin-star chef first established this restaurant, its Michelin star has stood the test of time. Housed within an elegant Georgian townhouse, it serves sophisticated yet contemporary Irish cuisine with French roots – whether opting for their seasonal a la carte menu or impressive tasting menu, expect outstanding flavors!
Chapter One was reopened after Ross Lewis left, under Finnish chef Mickael Viljanen’s guidance in 2022. With delicacy, precision, and exceptional ingredients as its signature style, his food has won praise from critics and diners alike – so much so that dishes from its set menu are served ‘family style’ to share – making Chapter One one of the city’s go-to places!
4. Kai
Ireland may be best-known for its lively capital city, but it also offers some of our most delicious cuisine. From comforting Irish stew to an exquisite Full Irish Breakfast, Irish cuisine showcases our rich culinary history and is an integral part of Irish heritage. Whether visiting or cooking up some storm in your own kitchen, these 10 must-try recipes will transport you back home – wherever that may be!
At this bright “Eating House,” in a beautifully renovated former Dublin woolen mill, everything Irish can be found under one roof. Stop in for lunch to sample classic Irish fare like Dublin coddle, crispy line-caught mackerel and cured Connemara ham – as well as more modern items like Irish Whiskey cheesecake.
One of Dublin’s finest dining rooms, this restaurant exudes grandeur to match its luxurious surroundings. A vaulted ceiling and team of well-trained service staff add an air of class while traditional recipes bring out superb ingredients in their glory.
Mickael Viljanen has been widely credited with rejuvenating Chapter One after it reopened at Parnell Square in 2021. His classically inspired cuisine utilizes premium ingredients in innovative ways to win two Michelin stars for Chapter One. Alongside him is Mikko Viljanen – his Finnish wife who oversees Chapter One’s incredible wine list.
