County Kerry for the Food Enthusiasts

The Ring of Kerry extends a delicious welcome to fellow travellers and food enthusiasts. Ireland's south-west region has a profound love for food that seeps through every aspect of our culture. From dedicated farmers and artisanal food producers to innovative chefs and passionate food festival organisers, our nation's culinary expertise shines brightly. Famed globally for its breathtaking Lakes of Killarney, the enchanting Rose of Tralee, the picturesque town of Dingle, and the iconic Ring of Kerry, travellers are not only offered the scenic beauty of Kerry but also a tantalising array of culinary experiences. While the route can be explored in any direction, it is highly recommended to commence your exploration in Killarney. Here, amid the charming streets and welcoming atmosphere, you'll find the perfect starting point for your culinary adventure through County Kerry's diverse and vibrant food scene.

Killarney and Killorglin

Ranging from restaurants and cafés to cocktail bars and upscale hotel dining experiences, Killarney offers a huge variety of options. For that cup of tea or coffee with the vintage vibe and retro chic decor, drop by J.M Reidy’s on Main Street Killarney. Visit the Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House on High Street to treat yourself to boxty, which is a delicious potato pancake that's a Kerry staple. And the meal wouldn’t be complete without having a dessert at Murphy's Ice Cream at Main Street. From the classic vanilla bean to daring Dingle Sea Salt, each scoop is a creamy delight that captures the essence of Ireland's flavours. If you're craving a fine dining experience, look no further than The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens and The Europe Hotel & Resort, both prestigious 5-star establishments situated just outside Killarney, offering exceptional cuisine to satisfy the most discerning palates. With a short drive to Killorglin, you can go ahead and explore Jack's Coastguard Restaurant for succulent roast lamb, creamy seafood chowder, and Guinness stews with stunning panoramas of the ocean off the cliff. Outside Killorglin just off the Ring of Kerry Route is Ard na Sidhe Country House, resting on the quiet shores of Caragh Lake. Here, Afternoon Tea is a speciality. Killorglin town hosts the Flavour of Killorglin Food Festival each September and is worth the stopover if you are travelling at that time of year.

Glenbeigh, Kells and Caherciveen

Across the mesmerising lanes of the village of Glenbeigh, the locals love to dine at Rosspoint for their special occasions.  Further along the Ring of Kerry is a peaceful village of Kells. Go off route and down a narrow and winding road to seek out Kells Bay Gardens and Café, a hidden gem for a spot of lunch. Their café serves up delicious lunches, homemade treats, and a mean latte to perk you up for the next leg of your journey. For seafood lovers, QC's Seafood Restaurant at Cahersiveen is an award-winner for offering the freshest catches from the Atlantic, expertly prepared. They would offer you the finest succulent oysters, pan-fried seabass, and divine lobster bisque.

Portmagee and Ballinskelligs

A significant number of travellers following the Ring of Kerry route often overlook what is widely recognised as the most picturesque stretch of the region. This captivating area lies off the main route, leading towards the charming fishing village of Portmagee, the quaint community of Valentia Island, and the secluded yet stunning Ballinskelligs region. The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant at The Bridge Bar is the most loved at Portmagee village. The Fisherman's Bar in Portmagee allows you to soak in the harbour views while you savour their seafood bounty. Their daily specials board is a delightful surprise, and don't miss out on the homemade brown bread. Travelling further to the area of Ballinskelligs takes you to Skelligs Chocolate Factory, without which your journey will be incomplete. Set against the backdrop of the rugged Skellig Islands, this charming chocolate haven crafts exquisite handmade chocolates using traditional methods. Dig into a selection of truffles and join a guided tour to learn about the fascinating chocolate-making process.

Waterville and Caherdaniel

Located in the Caherdaniel area. The Sugarshack Cakery, a whimisical vintage style café which also offers baking classes, lies in the Caherdaniel area and no trip to the area would be complete without a trip to the Ahamore Tea Rooms in Derrynane House. For those who are making a stop in nearby Castlecove, O’Carroll’s Cove Beach Bar and Restaurant is the perfect place for a quite drink

Sneem and Kenmare

Located on the road to Kenmare, just beyond the village of Sneem, lies Dromquinna Manor - a beautifully restored estate boasting expansive gardens that cascade down to the serene Kenmare Bay. Nestled at the private pier is the Boathouse, an elegant wine bar and bistro renowned for its stylish ambiance and an extensive collection of gins sourced from various corners of the globe. This upscale restaurant boasts an incredible location on the shores of Kenmare Bay. Their menu features innovative takes on fresh, local ingredients, with a focus on seafood and succulent steaks. Also in Kenmare, The Lime Tree Restaurant beckons with its award-winning cuisine and elegant ambiance. Using locally sourced ingredients, the talented chefs at The Lime Tree create culinary masterpieces that celebrate the flavours of the region. When you visit County Kerry, and in particular the Ring of Kerry, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to artisan, gourmet, and indigenous Irish food and beverages.

Value of the Irish Food Industry

The indigenous Irish food industry is a massive industry in the Irish marketplace. As per the Irish Food & Drink Board, the industry is worth €27.5 billion and exports a whopping €16.3 billion annually. Irish food and drink grace shelves in over 180 countries. 90% of exports come from Origin Green verified producers, ensuring sustainable and high-quality products. 164,900 are employed in the agri-food sector, making up 6.5% of total employment until 2022.

From artisanal ice cream to fresh seafood and hearty pub fare, the Ring of Kerry offers a feast for the senses that's sure to leave you craving more. So, grab your fork and go visit the gems in the journey of savouring the flavours of Ireland's southwest coast. And while going along in the journey, do stop by at Ard na Sidhe Country House Hotel for your Irish food adventure holiday.