I was looking for an authentic cafe dining experience, and this was definitely it. It was evident that many of the diners were regulars. The menu is small, featuring hearty home cooking. The portions are large and the prices are terrific. The staff is very friendly, it has a feel of eating at a family home. Thank you!
Overview
At the heart of Cork, Ireland, lies a cozy yet vibrant dining destination: Kelly's Restaurant. Nestled at 64 Oliver Plunkett St, Centre, Cork, T12 K5FH, this spot has become a beloved staple for both locals and visitors alike, offering a delightful blend of traditional Irish flavors and modern culinary flair.
The moment you step inside Kelly's, the warm ambiance wraps around you like a comfortable embrace. The rustic charm of the decor, with its soft lighting and welcoming atmosphere, sets the tone for a relaxed dining experience. Whether you're dropping by for a casual meal with friends or celebrating a special occasion, the environment here makes it easy to unwind.
The menu at Kelly's Restaurant is a true reflection of Ireland's rich culinary heritage, with a contemporary twist. You'll find a range of dishes that highlight the best of Irish produce, including locally sourced meats, fresh seafood, and vegetables. For starters, the creamy seafood chowder is a favorite-rich, comforting, and brimming with the fresh catch of the day. Pair it with a crusty slice of homemade soda bread, and you have the perfect start to your meal.
Main courses at Kelly's are just as impressive. The slow-roasted lamb, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, melts in your mouth with each bite. For seafood lovers, the pan-seared fish, served with a zesty lemon butter sauce, is a must-try. If you're after something a bit more indulgent, the hearty Irish stew is a classic, packed with tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and a savory broth that warms you from the inside out.
A visit to Kelly's Restaurant wouldn't be complete without sampling one of their signature desserts. The warm chocolate fondant is a showstopper-gooey and rich with a perfect balance of sweetness, it’s the ultimate treat for any chocolate lover. If you're craving something lighter, the fruit sorbet is refreshing and vibrant, a great way to cleanse your palate after a satisfying meal.
The service at Kelly's adds to the overall charm. The staff are not only friendly but knowledgeable about the menu, offering recommendations and making you feel like a regular even on your first visit. Whether it's explaining the provenance of a dish or offering a wine pairing suggestion, their expertise shines through in every interaction.
One of the most appealing aspects of Kelly's is its location. Situated in the bustling center of Cork, it’s an ideal spot to stop by after a day of exploring the city. The restaurant is within walking distance of many of Cork's top attractions, making it easy to enjoy a hearty meal before continuing your adventure.
Kelly’s is also known for its great value, especially considering the quality of the ingredients and the care taken in preparing each dish. Whether you're in the mood for a quick lunch or a long, leisurely dinner, Kelly's provides an exceptional dining experience that’s hard to beat. Many locals consider it their go-to spot for a comforting, satisfying meal, and it’s easy to see why.
For those who appreciate an excellent dining experience that combines tradition with innovation, Kelly's Restaurant is an excellent choice. The menu, the atmosphere, and the service all come together seamlessly to create a dining experience that’s both memorable and satisfying. If you're ever in Cork, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal at this charming gem in the heart of the city.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessertPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entranceOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Coffee ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ CosyCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ Kids' menuPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 175 reviews
Excellent value for money set price 4-course lunch for €24 per person. You can just order a main course for €16. The starter was a tasty, home-made vegetable soup. I choose the roast turkey & ham with mashed potatoes & boiled vegetables for the main course in a nice gravy & I really enjoyed it. The desert was a hot, rice pudding served with raspberry sauce & cream. That was delicious too. The final course was between a coffee or tea. We ordered a pot of hot water & milk as we brought our own decaffeinated tea. They do not serve alcohol but instead you get a jug of free tap water. The service was excellent & the waitresses are very patient & helpful in explaining what is available, The blackboards with all lunch courses are prominently displayed at both the grould floor & first floor entrances. The restaurant is easy to find on the main shopping street just around the corner from the English Market in the centre of Cork.
It is a small place but food is so delicious. Not expensive at all. Make sure you taste their beef.
This was my favorite meal in all my travels in Ireland. Here you get a real home cooked meal. The ham was unbelievable and the mushroom soup can not be missed. Absolutely lovely people, service, atmosphere, and food. Can’t praise this place enough. A must try if you are in Cork!
Kelly's food was delicious and comforting! Neil, the chef and owner, cooked the food to perfection, giving us a sense of home. We had the Spaghetti Bolognese and Roasted Chicken! The staff was friendly, inviting, and on top of everything. We would love to come here again the next time we visit Cork City!
The best meal I've ever had in Ireland. The food is sublime, typical irish home made - the bread was heaven. The ladies are really friendly and the service is fast. You won't regret it. I will come back next time in Cork.
Good hearty Irish food. Excellent after the night before or when you just want a home cooked irish meal! Highly reccomend!