We’re not exaggerating when we say some of the best restaurants in the country are in Cork. Whether you’re a Millennial looking for brunch or a couple out for their date night, Cork’s foodie scene has something to offer everyone.
Forget the gym or the ‘bikini bod’ for a couple of hours so you can indulge in some delicious meals.
Aside from these restaurant spots, be sure to take a stroll through the English Market, which was established in August 1788 and still stands tall in Cork’s city centre today. Taking a walk through the Market, you’ll be greeted with an aroma of meats, herbs and spices, fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade chocolate, various cheeses and sauces.
There are plenty of options to choose from but here are five of the most delicious food spots that Cork has to offer. All, but one, are located right in the city leaving you with no excuse not to try them out on your next visit.
5. Son of a Bun
Located on Cork’s infamous MacCurtain St, Son of a Bun opened its doors in October 2015. With its award-winning burgers and top-class customer service, this is one of Cork’s great additions to its food scene.
We would highly recommend the Dirty Chicken Burger and Angry fries without sauce and blue cheese to cure your Sunday hangover.
Each month they add a special limited edition burger to their menu with one of their most popular ones being ‘The Chipper’ – curry sauce, cheese and onion potato pie with two 3oz patties topped off with cheddar cheese, mushy peas, garlic mayo and a brioche bun. All we’ll say is, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.
Address: 28 MacCurtain Street, Montenotte, Cork, Ireland
4. Market Lane
One of the more upmarket (no pun intended) of the list, this place really is for the foodie in the group with its mint and feta, kabayaki glaze and tzatziki yoghurt to name but a few. Â
Located on Oliver Plunkett St, Market lane prides itself of using locally sourced produce in their meals including Cork’s iconic English Market.
Keeping up with the ‘veganuary’ trend, this restaurant is a great option for vegans as it has a separate vegan menu for both lunch and dinner. With their fully licensed bar, there’s an array of cocktails, spirits and beers for you to choose from ensuring there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Address: 5-6 Oliver Plunkett St, Centre, Cork, T12 T959, Ireland
3. Scoozi’s
A Cork institute – Scoozi’s has enjoyed a pride of place in the city’s Winthrop Lane for decades. A mix of burgers, pizzas, salad and pasta, this Italian style restaurant is perfect for a family occasion.
Many a time have we been waiting on the famous waiting bench as it’s such a popular choice with locals and tourists alike.
The cosy, traditional interior has been the same for years and is one of the reasons why it’s such a charming spot.
Sit outside during the warmer days with a bottle of Cork’s Stonewell craft cider to enjoy your meal as you people watch to your heart’s content as it’s a solid people watching spot. Also, be sure to keep room for dessert because these homemade cakes are divine!!
Address: 2/5 Winthrop Ln, Centre, Cork, Ireland
2. The Spitjack Rotisserie Brasserie
Two words – Eggs Benedict! This place’s brunch menu is to die for. Thank us later! Usually packed with Millennials sipping on a Spitjack Bloody Mary, it’s the place to brunch in Cork city at the weekend.
Located on Washington Street (across from Rearden’s Bar – you know the one), it’s in the name, but the menu boasts plenty of rotisserie. If you don’t beat the crowd, not to worry, as you can avail of their deli counter and have your food to go.
Aside from their brunch menu, The Spitjack also has a delicious dinner menu filled with all your rotisserie dreams including a West Cork Rotisserie Chicken, Pork Belly Porchetta and The Jack Chicken Burger.
Address: 34 Washington St, Centre, Cork, Ireland
1. KC & Son & Sons
No list of Cork’s foodie spots would be complete without the renowned KC & Son & Sons.
Located in the suburb of Douglas, this is gourmet chipper feasting at its finest. Founded in 1958, this place is as popular as ever with queues lining the streets of Douglas on a daily basis to get a takeaway.
This is another family-run business on the list that is acclaimed for its King Creole, Chicken Bombay and the KC Special Burger. Next time you’re in the area, be sure to join the queue – we promise you won’t regret it!
Address: Douglas, Cork, Ireland
By Laura Sheehan
