There are so many beautiful cafes and restaurants in Kerry that the choice can be overwhelming.
What’s more, as Ireland’s tourism capital, food can often be on the pricey side.
But don’t let the Kingdom’s luxurious side deter you – there are plenty of options for visitors on a budget, too.
Here are our top 5 cafes/restaurants in Kerry!
5. Dish, Tralee
If you like Mexican food, cake and a relaxed, informal setting, look no further than Dish in Tralee.
Specialising in burritos, friendly staff in this cheery cafe serve up delicious spicy food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A chunky burrito – chicken, beef or vegetarian – comes with chips and a side salad, all for just €10.95.
The vegetable options don’t just extend to the burritos – Dish caters superbly to vegetarians, vegans and has gluten-free options, too.
Flavoursome Mexican food catering to all diets, without breaking the bank – muy bueno!Â
Address: 16 Russell St, Balloonagh, Tralee, Co. Kerry, V92 PY16
4. Chewy and the Beast, Dingle
Situated in the courtyard of the lively Dick Mack’s pub in Dingle, Chewy and the Beast is a popular spot for delicious pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven and burgers served on a delicate brioche bun.
All their beef is sourced locally in West Kerry and the brioche provided by a Dingle-based baker.
If you’re in the mood for a burger, it’s worth getting the meal deal – a veggie or cheeseburger with fries and a drink, all for just €10!
But the pizzas are also delicious, with perfectly crisp bases and cooked to perfection using the freshest ingredients.
Outdoor seating may not suit all weathers for restaurants in Kerry, but as the evenings grow longer and our thoughts turn to summer, a sunny holiday in Dingle wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Chewy and the Beast!Â
Address: 47 Green St, Dingle, Co. Kerry, V92 FF25
3. Piccolo Pizza, Killarney
Yes, more pizza, but bear with us as Piccolo is something special! With a pizza chef from Naples, you know you’re in for a treat, and Piccolo certainly brings a taste of Italy to Killarney at an affordable price.
Killarney locals will tell you that Piccolo is the best pizzerias in town, and with meats and cheeses sourced directly from Italy and served by friendly staff in a small but sociable setting, it’s not hard to see why.
Try the Capra if you like goat’s cheese – it also comes with walnuts, speck, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. And don’t worry if you have a wheat intolerance, as all pizzas can be made gluten-free.
With most 12″ pizzas coming in at under €15, the high-quality food on offer is definitely good value for money. Why go to Italy when you can sample such delectable pizza in beautiful Killarney?Â
Address: 5 Beech Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
2. Bookstop Vegetarian Cafe, Kenmare
It’s hard to believe now, but when Bookstop Cafe opened its doors ten years ago, it was the very first vegetarian cafe in Kenmare. Not content with just being one of the nicest cafes in this picturesque village, it is also a second-hand book shop.
This creates a cosy and relaxed atmosphere, with patrons browsing the bookshelves as they sip coffee and eat their lunch.
The lunch options themselves are fantastic – delicious vegetarian and vegan fare, with homemade spelt scones, cakes and biscuits.
Food is lovingly prepared and beautifully presented by the Bookstop’s friendly staff. Make sure to try their delightful homemade pesto, a real treat.Â
Reasonably priced any day of the week, if you’re visiting on Friday you can pick up a real bargain – the cafe’s “Friday Special” lunch for just €5.50! A must visit for a chilled out day in Kenmare.Â
Address: 5 Bridge St, Kenmare, Co. Kerry, V93 FD79
1. Beachcove Cafe, Waterville
If you’re planning a scenic drive around the stunning Ring of Kerry, the Beachcove Cafe in Waterville is the perfect place to stop for breakfast or lunch.
A varied menu includes a Full Irish Breakfast for just €9.50, but if you visit at lunchtime it’s hard to look past the mouthwatering fish and chips.
The freshest locally caught fish fried in a light but crispy batter, it is a truly divine experience! Perhaps best of all, the Beachcove isn’t just for humans.
Yes, if you are walking your furry best friend along the Waterville promenade, you don’t need to leave him outside while you have your fish and chips – the Beachcove is dog friendly, and even serves a canine menu with highlights including a peanut butter mash (bacon lardons mixed in peanut butter) and a hot dog (two sausages chopped up). It truly is fun for all the family and in our top 5 restaurants in Kerry!
Address: Waterville Upper, Waterville, Co. Kerry
