23 Best Restaurants in Cork, Ireland in 2025
When it comes to restaurants in Cork, there's no shortage of options. Whether you’re craving local Irish fare, Palestinian flavours or authentic Italian, you’ll find a delicious meal waiting that showcases the best of local and international cuisine.
In this guide, we've put together a list of the 23 best restaurants in Cork to explore. Each spot offers a unique, well-curated menu, excellent service and noteworthy settings. If you happen to find yourself in this beautiful Irish city, why not pay a visit to one of these must-try spots?
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The 23 Best Cork Restaurants
1. Isaacs Restaurant
Nestled in a historic building on McCurtain Street, Isaacs Restaurant — one of the best restaurants in Cork — has been using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft contemporary Irish and European cuisine for nearly 28 years.
The Vibe
Inside Isaacs, you'll find tile flooring, ceiling fans and exposed brick walls that echo the building's historical roots. Whether you're dining solo or with a group, this Cork restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a cosy ambience while tucking into delicious Cork food.
What to Order
Dishes are seasonal, thanks to this restaurant in Cork’s use of fresh, local ingredients. Stop by for lunch and try the rich confit duck or wholesome chickpea and potato curry, served with roasted butternut squash on a bed of basmati rice, accompanied by poppadoms and a selection of sides.
Isaacs Restaurant | 48 MacCurtain St., Victorian Quarter, Cork, T23 F6EK | €€€
2. Ichigo Ichie
Considered one of the best restaurants in Cork, Michelin-starred Ichigo Ichie is the go-to for authentic, casual Japanese cuisine that’s both enjoyable and sustainable.
The Vibe
With its intimate, low-lit setting, minimalist touches and hints of Japanese-inspired décor, Ichigo Ichie is the perfect choice among Cork restaurants for a unique dining experience.
What to Order
Choose from the à la carte menu — dishes include assorted tempura, kake soba noodle soup and flavourful rice bowls.
Ichigo Ichie | 5 Fenns Quay, Sheares St., Centre, Cork, T12 RY7Y | €€€€
3. Market Lane
Regarded as one of the most popular restaurants in Cork, Market Lane is a contemporary, multi-award-winning restaurant and bar, offering an impressive menu and exceptional service.
The Vibe
The atmosphere is a fantastic balance of intimate, friendly and casual, featuring stylish yet comfortable décor with wood furnishings and beautiful light fixtures.
What to Order
Try the fresh scallops and the Glenbeigh mussels — both popular starters at this seafood-celebrating restaurant in Cork. When you're ready to savour your main course, order the aromatic fish curry served on crispy rice to really celebrate Cork’s seafood heritage.
Market Lane | 5-6 Oliver Plunkett St., Cork, T12 T959 | €€€
4. The Model Farm
Few restaurants in Cork offer casual dining quite like The Model Farm. Known for its farm-to-table approach and menu highlighting Cork foods and seasonal flavours, this Cork restaurant is a must-visit for a taste of traditional Irish hospitality.
The Vibe
Guests are welcomed by attentive staff into a friendly, inviting atmosphere, featuring light walls, comfortable tartan-print seating and a hard-to-leave cosy feel.
What to Order
The steak sandwich from the lunch menu is popular, featuring a 6oz sirloin steak seasoned to perfection, served on garlic-toasted ciabatta garnished with onion rings and rocket. It's no wonder this sandwich is so well-loved. Pair it with mozzarella sticks for a truly satisfying meal.
The Model Farm | Model Farm Road, Eden Hall, Cork, T12 FXF9 | €€
5. Farmgate Café
Locals are drawn to Farmgate Café, located in the heart of Cork’s English Market, for its dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients straight from the market to craft a simple yet mighty menu.
The Vibe
Black-and-white chequered flooring and beautifully ornate balcony railings overlooking the market stalls converge at this Cork restaurant, creating a chic ambiance, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat.
What to Order
When you visit this restaurant in Cork, try the Market Fish Chowder served with brown soda bread; it's flavourful, filling and so traditional. Another excellent choice is the Cork Reuben sourdough sandwich, complemented by tangy tarragon mayonnaise.
Farmgate Café | The English Market, Princes Street, Cork, T12 NC8Y | €€
6. Greenes Restaurant
Few restaurants in Cork can claim to reside in a converted 18th-century warehouse, but Greenes Restaurant is one of them. Greenes offers a menu full of innovative, global and standout cuisine.
The Vibe
Guests are greeted by warm stone flooring, festoon lights and a stunning waterfall feature, like something from a fairytale. Inside, you'll find lush green velvet seating, cascading plant life and plenty of natural light.
What to Order
Treat yourself to the prime Angus rib-eye beef, served with flavourful seasonal vegetables and herbed potatoes and drizzled with a rich beef gravy.
Greenes Restaurant | 48 MacCurtain St., Victorian Quarter, Cork, T23 F6EK | €€€
7. Goldie
If you’re searching for a Michelin-star restaurant in Cork that serves upscale and mouth-watering seafood, look no further than Goldie. This top restaurant in Cork follows a “gill-to-fin” approach, ensuring that no part of the fish goes to waste.
The Vibe
Goldie is a cosy spot with an open kitchen for watching the pros at work, comfy green suede bar stools and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for settling in for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
What to Order
The menu changes daily based on the fresh catch of the day and what’s in season. If available, be sure to try small plates like the pollock with jalapeño and blood orange or the pan-roasted hake, served with chervil aioli, herbs and bomba rice.
Goldie | 128 Oliver Plunkett St., Cork, T12 X5P8 | €€€
8. Jacques
Serving simple yet delicious Cork food to locals and visitors alike for over 40 years, Jacques is a beloved restaurant in Cork. The varied menu is crafted using fresh ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, ensuring diners get an authentic taste of the Rebel City.
The Vibe
Jacques has a quintessential pub-style charm, blending soft lighting, exposed brick walls and wooden furnishings. This cosy restaurant in Cork offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling Oliver Plunkett Street outside.
What to Order
Give one of the small plates a try — the mussels escabeche is delectable. If you're feeling more than peckish, go for one of the big plates; the chicken schnitzel is an excellent choice.
Jacques | 23 Oliver Plunkett St., Cork, T12 A5D7 | €€€
9. Filter
If you're craving a trendy coffee spot, seek and ye shall find at Filter. Serving speciality coffee made from beans sourced by top roasters around the globe, it’s a local favourite that’s hard to resist.
The Vibe
At Filter, the vibe is cool and casual, featuring a minimalist aesthetic with large windows that flood the room with light. With counter service and limited seating, this uncluttered restaurant in Cork is intimate and perfect for sipping coffee and watching the world go by.
What to Order
Order an espresso to pair with one of the lovely selection of cake slices.
Filter | 19 George's Quay, Cork, T12 DK49 | €€
10. Da Mirco Osteria
The rustic flavours of Italy find a forever home in Da Mirco Osteria. This restaurant in Cork does a fantastic job of serving authentic, homemade Italian to the local community. Led by owner and chef Mirco Fondrini, you can expect nothing but a true taste of Italy.
The Vibe
Cosy, intimate and simple, Da Mirco Osteria has an inviting, unpretentious feel. Wooden tables, plants affectionately placed on shelves and large windows that fill the space with natural light make this the perfect restaurant in Cork for a quiet meal.
What to Order
The tagliatelle infused with truffles, mixed mushrooms and cream of gorgonzola is just one of the many dishes crafted in-house at Da Mirco Osteria, using high-quality ingredients, many of which are sourced directly from Italy.
Da Mirco Osteria | 4 Bridge St., Montenotte, Cork, T23 H10E | €€€
11. Good Day Deli
Nestled in the historic and tranquil garden oasis of Nano Nagle Place, Good Day Deli is a sustainable food restaurant in Cork that combines a commitment to environmental responsibility with delicious, nourishing and locally sourced food.
The Vibe
Surrounded by nature, the outdoor seating area at Good Day Deli overlooks the lush gardens of Nano Nagle Place, offering a peaceful dining experience. Inside, the minimalist décor reflects the eco-friendly ethos, with bright yellow seating and a serene, welcoming atmosphere.
What to Order
The summer berry pancakes at this restaurant in Cork will kickstart your day with some much-needed sweetness. These soft, fluffy buttermilk pancakes are made freshly each morning, layered with coconut mascarpone and then topped with a generous helping of raspberries, strawberries, granola and fresh mint.
Good Day Deli | Nano Nagle Place, Douglas Street, Cork, T12 X70A | €€
12. Paradiso
At Paradiso, vegetables take centre stage. This award-winning restaurant in Cork has been serving mouthwatering, seasonal dishes since 1993.
The Vibe
Simple, intimate and well put together, the interior of this restaurant in Cork blends a contemporary design with warm earthy tones and gentle lighting.
What to Order
The six-course tasting menu is divine and gets better with each plate. Savour it with the organic wine pairing for a decadent dining experience.
Paradiso | 16 Lancaster Quay, Mardyke, Cork, T12 AR24 | €€€
13. The Glass Curtain
With a focus on seasonal, locally sourced foods, The Glass Curtain is a restaurant in Cork that offers a dining experience combining sophistication with a relaxed atmosphere.
The Vibe
With an open kitchen, fully stocked bar, modern monochromatic décor and hanging plants, this restaurant provides a striking setting for lunch or dinner.
What to Order
From the locally caught oysters to the sweet tomato salad, everything is fresh-as-it-comes here. Order the dry-aged beef chop, made from 100% Irish beef and topped with a bone marrow beef jus, walnuts and potato terrine.
The Glass Curtain | Thompson House, MacCurtain Street, Victorian Quarter, Cork, T23 DC6C | €€€
14. Liberty Grill
Celebrate New England fare at Liberty Grill, a bustling restaurant in Cork serving seasonal dishes inspired by the East Coast of American, serving everything from seafood to burgers.
The Vibe
This welcoming and spacious setting features exposed, white-washed brick walls contrasted with black wooden panels, tables and chairs. It’s one of the top restaurants in Cork for a quick, yet memorable lunch.
What to Order
Stop by for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner to enjoy quinoa fritters, an open steak sandwich and a juicy ribeye steak. Whatever you order, the food is as fresh as it comes and always mouth-wateringly delicious.
Liberty Grill | 32 Washington St., Cork, T12 T880 | €€
15. Elbow Lane
Combining a microbrewery with a smokehouse, Elbow Lane serves perfectly smoked BBQ dishes alongside a selection of craft beers, fine wines and cocktails.
The Vibe
With striking, colourful patterned walls, low lighting and an intimate atmosphere, this restaurant in Cork is perfect for a relaxed evening for two.
What to Order
The deep-fried belly pork is crunchy and delicious while the lamb rump is slow-grilled to perfection and topped with fennel, smoked tomato and a flavorful salsa verde. Save room for dessert and indulge in the house-made fig leaf and coconut sorbet to end your meal.
Elbow Lane | 4 Oliver Plunkett St., Cork, T12 YH24 | €€
16. Orso Kitchen & Bar
Indulge in the Lebanese and Moroccan stylings of Orso Kitchen & Bar, where flavorful, bold spices and fresh ingredients are the backbone of a tasty menu.
The Vibe
Outside, you'll find seating at the front of the distinctive green-blue-painted building. Inside, this cosy restaurant in Cork features stone walls, light wooden furnishings and warm lighting.
What to Order
Order the spiced aubergine fritters from the lunch menu — it’s one of the most talked-about dishes and rightfully so. This flavorful dish is crafted using a delectable mix of hummus, coriander relish, garlic aioli, pickled red onions and apricots.
Orso Kitchen & Bar | 8 Pembroke St., Cork, T12 YY90 | €€
17. Izz Café
If you're craving flavourful Palestinian cuisine, Izz Café should be at the top of your list. Izz is one of the few restaurants in Cork where you can savour a genuine taste of Palestinian flavours alongside warm hospitality.
The Vibe
A small space with ochre walls, dark wood furnishings and a quiet, cosy atmosphere, Izz Café makes you feel right at home.
What to Order
The menu at this restaurant in Cork focuses on mana'eesh, a type of Palestinian flatbread. Order the manooshet labneh with honey — it’s a standout dish that offers bold flavours in the form of hummus, tahini sauce, pickles and more.
Izz Café | 13-14 George's Quay, Ballintemple, Cork, T12 EY24 | €€
18. The SpitJack
The first of its kind, The Spitjack is an award-winning restaurant in Cork that focuses on rotisserie-style meat dishes made using quality Irish produce. It’s the go-to spot for hearty comfort foods.
The Vibe
Casual and inviting, the space features a rustic interior with brick-lined walls, leather booth seating and plenty of wooden furnishings. The original stained-glass windows at the front of the restaurant are an eye-catching feature.
What to Order
The rotisserie meats are the stars of the menu. Choose from rotisserie roasted chicken burgers, honey-glazed rotisserie roasted ham, sirloin steak and beyond.
The SpitJack Cork | 34 Washington St., Cork, T12 RY96 | €€€
19. Quinlan’s Seafood Bar
A seafood gem among restaurants in Cork, Quinlan’s Seafood Bar serves the freshest fish at reasonable prices. This popular spot is known for its excellent service and friendly staff.
The Vibe
The vibe at Quinlan's Seafood Bar is relaxed and informal, featuring a nautical-inspired interior. Guests dine surrounded by sea-themed wallpaper, ocean shades of blue and a welcoming, lively atmosphere.
What to Order
Try the spectacular seafood platter or go for the traditional beer-battered fish and chips for one of the must-try Cork dishes on the menu. It comes with house-made mushy peas, tartare sauce and curry sauce.
Quinlan’s Seafood Bar | 14 Princes St., Cork, T12 K2HW | €€€
20. Jacobs on the Mall
With a focus on delivering exceptional food and modern European fare, Jacobs on the Mall is among the restaurants in Cork that cater to those craving international flavours alongside traditional Cork dishes.
The Vibe
This restaurant in Cork is housed in a beautifully restored warehouse that once served as the city's Turkish baths. Inside, you’ll find high ceilings adorned with hanging plants, exposed brickwork and spacious seating, creating an elegant yet comfortable setting to enjoy delicious food.
What to Order
Indulge in the pan-fried local salmon from the à la carte menu. For dessert, the lemon cheesecake topped with a sweet strawberry compote and cream is an irresistible way to end your meal.
Jacobs on the Mall | 30 S. Mall, Cork, T12 NY22 | €€€
21. My Goodness
Award-winning, ethical and vegan-friendly, My Goodness is a force among restaurants in Cork. Offering counter service and good, healthy food, it’s a must-visit.
The Vibe
The vibe at My Goodness is casual, down-to-earth and community-focused. Natural elements such as wooden shelving and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables on display create a warm and inviting atmosphere, with no doubt as to what the priorities are at this eatery.
What to Order
The nachos are a delicious lunch option, loaded with black bean and tempeh chipotle chilli, crispy tortilla chips, kimchi pico de gallo, vegan sour cream, nacho cheese and jalapeños.
My Goodness | Unit 1 & 2, English Market, Princes Street, Cork, T12 W9XP | €
22. 51 Cornmarket
At the helm of 51 Cornmarket are husband and wife duo, Chef Anne Zagar and David Devereaux. Together, they bring a shared passion for fresh, locally sourced ingredients to every dish.
The Vibe
At this restaurant in Cork, diners can enjoy their meals in a cosy, welcoming setting with hanging festoon lights, vibrant orange velvet bar seating and a charming outdoor area at the front.
What to Order
The duck confit is one of the best dishes on the menu. Don’t miss the chance to savour its tantalising flavour combinations, featuring organic kale, black garlic aioli, grilled beetroot and cherry.
51 Cornmarket | 51 Cornmarket St., Cork, T12 VK88 | €€€
23. Pompeii Pizza
Another beloved restaurant in Cork is Pompeii Pizza. This is the go-to spot for authentic wood-fired pizza, expertly crafted in a custom-built brick oven. Be sure to stop by if you're craving perfectly cooked, thin-crust pizzas with simple yet bold toppings.
The Vibe
Located inside a spacious beer garden, this restaurant in Cork is a hidden gem, adorned with vibrant flowers, plenty of wooden seating and twinkling string lights that are hard to miss.
What to Order
Order the quattro formaggi for an indulgent, cheesy feast. Finish off with one of the unusual sweet pizzas, such as the banana version which comes with a home-made hazelnut chocolate base, banana ricotta, fresh banana, coconut Bailey’s cream, a biscuit crumb and fresh mint — it might be a good idea to share!
Pompeii Pizza | 14B N Mall, Sunday's Well, Cork, T23 RHW2 | €
Find the Best Restaurants in Cork, Ireland
If you’re interested in learning something new while savouring good food, food tours in Ireland are a great way to discover the best restaurants in Cork with the help of local guides. These tours unearth hidden gems and popular spots, showing exactly why Cork is a food lover's paradise.
Exploring restaurants in Cork is a delicious way to experience the best culinary offerings in the city. Whether you join a food tour or visit the best restaurants in Cork on your own, this list will help you find something guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.
For even more ways to explore Cork and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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