Restaurants and Bars

Killarney diners were once limited to the ubiquitous Irish stew, boiled bacon, and roast with veggies, but now the restaurant scene caters for even the most discerning palates. The quality and diversity of cuisine has never been better. From traditional to contemporary Irish, there is a wealth of choice and Italian, Mediterranean, Indian, Pakistani, and Chinese restaurants are scattered throughout the town. Most pubs offer bar menus during the day, but from evening onwards concentrate on providing liquid nourishment with a bit of craic thrown in for good measure.

Restaurants

West End House stands at the bottom of New Street, across from St. Mary's Cathedral. A large rotisserie is the dining room centrepiece and you can watch the flames cook your meat to perfection. Vegetarians may find the pickings slim, but this is a popular spot for meat eaters. Further up New Street is the renowned Dingles restaurant. Contemporary Irish cuisine is served in a cosy, casual atmosphere and reservations are a must. Moving up the street, Ma Reilly's serves up those old favourites just like you remember from home. The Country Kitchen has fine baked goods and serves simple lunches and snacks, while Cafe Internet serves its snacks with cyber-time. Further along the street is Busy B's Bistro. This lively spot has a dedicated young following who seem to flow in and out for most of the day. Teo's, just next door, serves Mediterranean dishes to a mainly tourist crowd. In good weather you can dine alfresco. A hop across Main Street and under the arch brings you to Old Market Lane. In complete contrast to the old terraced cottages, is the Cooperage. Sleek and cool, this fine restaurant serves cuisine that is as modern as its decor.

Back under the arch and on the right is High Street. There is a concentration of restaurants in this area with a mixture of styles. The Laurels is world renowned for its "singing pub," but it also has a pleasant restaurant that is open during the summer. High Street also features several coffee houses that serve tasty lunches. Sceal Eile and The Bean House are both good places for a snack or light lunch with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. For more substantial and wholesome fare try Bricin. During the summer months, Bricin extends its hours and offers a dinner menu. Gaby's and Foley's Seafood & Steak have upmarket steak and seafood. If you are in the mood for international fare, Sherkhan Indian Restaurant serves excellent dishes, while Robertino's has Italian specialties.

The southeastern part of town including Main Street, Plunkett Street and College Street offers more eating opportunities. Paddy's serves an excellent range of Irish dishes with French influences in a casual atmosphere. Mustang Sally's attracts a hip, young crowd for its burgers and other American-style cuisine while the youngest diners of all love Mac's Ice Cream Parlour. A lane connects Main Street with College Street and is the location for a Taste of India. Sizzling Baltis and Tandoori specialties are featured on the menu. The Killarney Royal has elegant hotel fare, while the Arbutus' restaurant has interesting, contemporary cuisine in a fun atmosphere. The Failte is also a good stop for traditional favourites.

For those able to go slightly further afield, the Killeen House Hotel offers delicious dining in a historic setting in Aghadoe. In Waterville, The Huntsman has an extensive menu and a dining room with panoramic views.

Pubs

Killarney has been honing the art of entertaining visitors for over two centuries. Coach loads of tourists are shepherded into The Laurels for an evening of ballad singing and toe tapping tunes, while the Danny Mann offers similar, but less formulaic entertainment. Buckley's offers traditional style music performed with precision. Murphy's has been awarded a James Joyce Award for being an "authentic Irish pub" and having a friendly atmosphere that is full of interesting characters. The Art Deco style of the 98 Bar contrasts with the norm and attracts older singles. Well-dressed natives go to The Kube to be seen. This snazzy bar in the bottom reaches of The Towers Hotel is a hotspot and you could be turned away if your attire is not up to scratch.

Outside of town, true pub character can be found in abundance. Killorglin pubs are famous for their traditional sessions and visitors are made most welcome. Cahersiveen has many old style pubs that combine a day business with pulling pints. The Anchor stocks a fine array of fishing supplies with its beverages. The Fertha manages to combine food, music, and a natural spring.