Top 5 Places to Eat in Killarney

Written by Graham Smith, Karen Price
29/08/2025
Majestic medieval church with blooming flowers in Killarney, Ireland.
Liudmyla Shalimova, Pexels

Killarney's dining scene offers a delightful array of choices, perfectly blending traditional Irish hospitality with diverse international flavours, catering to families, couples, and travellers seeking both hearty fare and refined experiences.

1. Khao Asian Street Food

Cuisine: Asian Street Food (Vietnamese, Thai)

Stepping into Khao, I found a welcoming spot on High Street, perfect when I needed a break from traditional Irish fare. The dimly lit interior and simple decor create a relaxed atmosphere, and the vibrant Vietnamese and Thai dishes truly stand out. Their spicy chicken ramen bowl was a genuine highlight, and the pho bo and Thai green vegetable curry are equally flavourful. It’s also great for a quick takeaway.

Price: €10-€20 / $11-$22 per person

Getting There: Located on High Street, it is easily walkable from the main town centre.

2. Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House

Cuisine: Traditional Irish, Boxty

Bricín offers a truly authentic Irish dining experience with its cosy, traditional wooden panelling and cheerfully coloured walls. Their specialty, the Bricín Boxty – an Irish potato pancake – is a must-try, especially when filled with options like chicken fillet or Irish lamb. I found the staff to be incredibly friendly and attentive, adding to the charm of dining in this upstairs restaurant. It’s wise to book ahead as it’s a popular spot.

Price: €25-€40 / $27-$44 per person

Getting There: Situated on High Street, it's easily accessible on foot within the town centre.

3. The Mad Monk by Quinlans

Cuisine: Fresh Seafood

For seafood lovers, The Mad Monk is a fantastic choice, boasting a sleek interior and a lively atmosphere suitable for both groups and couples. I thoroughly enjoyed their Dingle Bay Wild Squid and seared Aran Islands scallops. The panko breaded Irish prawn scampi and deep water prawn tagliatelle were also excellent choices, showcasing the freshness of their locally sourced seafood.

Price: €30-€55 / $33-$60 per person

Getting There: Located on High Street, it is a short walk from most central Killarney accommodations.

4. Porterhouse Restaurant

Cuisine: Hearty Irish Pub Grub

The Porterhouse on Plunkett Street feels like a proper traditional pub, but with fantastic food. The cosy, family-run atmosphere makes it a great spot for a hearty Irish meal. I remember enjoying their creamy seafood chowder, and the baked Cajun salmon with herb-roasted baby potatoes was exceptional. They offer generous portions and a diverse menu, making it ideal for a satisfying dinner after exploring.

Price: €20-€35 / $22-$38 per person

Getting There: Found on Plunkett Street, it is within easy walking distance of Killarney's centre.

5. Treyvaud's Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern Irish & International Fine Dining

For a more refined dining experience, Treyvaud's on High Street consistently impresses. This family-run establishment offers a menu of modern Irish and international dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. I've found their grilled fillet of fresh halibut to be simple yet delicious, and the wild forest mushroom risotto is a flavourful vegetarian option. The relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance makes it perfect for a special evening.

Price: €45-€70+ / $50-$76+ per person

Getting There: Located on High Street, it is easily walkable from the town centre.

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