I bet you’ve sometimes thought of visiting Limerick for its iconic sights like King John’s Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, The Burren, or St. Mary’s Cathedral. But hold on a second!
Today, I’m here to convince you to make Limerick your next foodie destination!
This city is bursting with mouthwatering restaurants and hidden treasures that you absolutely can’t miss. So, buckle up and get ready to explore some of the tastiest spots Limerick has to offer. In our list, we have-
- The East Room
- The Oak Room
- The French Table
- The Cornstore
- 1826 Adare
- Coqbull – Castletroy
- Freddy’s Restaurant
- The Spitjack Limerick
- The Buttery
The East Room, Plassey House-University of Limerick, Sreelane
Website- https://eastroom.ie/
Location- Plassey House-University of Limerick, Sreelane, Limerick, V94 PX58, Ireland
So when I asked my friends for recommendations, The East Room consistently came up as the top choice—even ranking first on TripAdvisor. Although I don’t usually rely on online reviews, I figured, why not give it a try?
The result? If you’re after an unforgettable dining experience, The East Room, a Michelin-starred gem, could be exactly what you’re looking for. From appetizers to desserts, this restaurant exceeded all of our expectations! Every dish was delicious!
Located in the historic Plassey House at the University of Limerick, this place is all about elegance and top-quality food. The building itself is very beautiful, decorated with interesting pictures, and great views all around. Parking’s a breeze—just pull up right outside, no hunting for a spot! And, it’s tucked away on campus, so let Google Maps lead the way.
And the food? It’s on another level. Head Chef Derek Fitzpatrick and his team have put together a menu that blends local foraging, artisan ingredients, and house-grown produce to make dishes as stunning as they are tasty. They’ve got everything from a mouthwatering lamb rump with XO sauce to a light lemon dessert that guests rave about. With prices ranging from $50 to $84, there’s something for everyone—including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
I started with scallops, moved on to Iberico pork for the main, and finished with a chocolate bavarois for dessert. Each dish had a perfect balance of flavors and it was beautifully prepared, with every element working together to offer a wonderful blend of flavors and textures.
The menu changes frequently based on local availability, so I won’t go into specifics, but I can say that the value for portions given was fantastic. And the wine pairing? Let’s just say we’ve never had such generous pours!
Vincenzo nailed every wine pairing! He’s there to guide you through the extensive list, helping you find the perfect match without pushing the priciest options. I also tried one of their non-alcoholic cocktails, and it was delicious!
One of the best things about The East Room is the service. You really feel well taken care of, from the warm, delicious bread served before the starter to the delightful passion fruit soufflé that wraps up the meal perfectly.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff go the extra mile to make your dining experience truly memorable. When my friend mentioned his allergies, the chef and waitstaff made every effort to modify the menu to accommodate his dietary needs while still offering him plenty of options.
But it’s not just the food and service that make this place special—it’s the whole experience. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the grand, Irish hunting lodge decor that instantly feels calming and luxurious. The East Room has a cozy, intimate atmosphere, and even though it’s usually buzzing with diners, it still feels like a hidden gem.
Though the restaurant has faced challenges catering to large groups due to its unique setting, they’ve even recently improved their booking system to better manage larger groups, ensuring everyone gets their meal on time.
So, if you’re looking for a place where every detail is taken care of and the food is consistently top-notch, The East Room is worth a visit.
The Oak Room, Adare, Co. Limerick, V94 W8WR
Website: https://www.theoakroom.ie/
Location: 24 Bridge st, cavan, h12 w866
I’ve honestly lost track of how many times I’ve visited The Oak Room—it’s just that good! I love everything about it, from the grand, lavish setting to the smooth, peaceful service, and, of course, the unforgettable food. Dining at The Oak Room in Adare Manor is nothing short of enchanting.
The restaurant focuses on contemporary Irish cuisine, featuring dishes made from the finest local ingredients. Each plate has just a few key elements, allowing the flavors to truly shine and complement each other. Whether it’s the exquisite veal sweetbreads, the perfectly cooked duck, or the delicate oysters and liver parfait, every dish is a beautiful showcase of Irish culinary art.
Wondering what to order? Their tasting menu offers a full exploration of the chef’s best dishes, while the à la carte menu provides plenty of outstanding choices, including beef and cod mains that rival Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris.
I highly recommend the 8-course menu to anyone visiting. The cheese trolley is a delightful surprise—something I’ve never encountered elsewhere! The food was extraordinary, with the lemon tart being a favorite. Each course was beautifully presented, and the staff provided great explanations of each dish.
A special shoutout to our waiter, Craig! He was incredibly knowledgeable about both the food and the history of the manor. He is a charming and talkative young man who went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic evening. Every moment was relaxed and delicious, making our family feel like rock stars.
Curious about the wine selection? The Oak Room’s sommelier has curated an extensive and thoughtful list, with superb options available by the glass, including rare finds. Have you ever paired Amarone with beef? Here, it’s a match made in heaven.
What’s even more impressive is the attention to detail. The culinary team works with local artisans to create custom serving pieces that reflect the beauty of Adare Manor’s landscape, adding a lovely sense of place to every course. Some dishes even made us laugh out loud with their creativity!
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can expect delightful surprises—from personalized cakes to extra treats waiting in your room. You can guess that the experience is not only about the food but the exceptional service, with a team that ensures every guest feels like royalty.
Prices are transparent, and while it’s fine dining, it’s not stuffy. Guests are encouraged to savor their meal at a leisurely pace, often enjoying dinner for three or more hours, which adds to the relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
Ready for an incredible Irish dining experience?
The stunning space, wood-paneled walls, beautiful chandeliers, and a glass-enclosed terrace that overlooks 850 acres of breathtaking grounds– You’re going to love it! It promises a meal that’s just as unforgettable as the atmosphere! And don’t forget to save room for their delicious lemon tart or a fun pre-dessert!
The French Table, 1 Steamboat Quay, Dock Rd, Mountkennet
Website- https://www.frenchtable.ie/
Location- 1 Steamboat Quay, Dock Rd, Mountkennet, Limerick, V94 RW84, Ireland
Looking for a change of flavor? The French Table should be your first choice! Since 2008, it has been offering an authentic French dining experience that delights diners. Centrally located with a beautiful view of the river, it features stunning scenery and even better food.
So, what’s on the menu? You’ll find everything from French onion soup and beef bourguignon to lighter options like the fish of the day in a prawn bisque. It’s all about fresh, locally sourced ingredients served with classic French flair.
Chef Thomas, from Strasbourg, and his wife Deirdre, from County Limerick, have teamed up to create a relaxed yet refined dining atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a special dinner, they consistently deliver high-quality French cuisine with a modern twist.
I started with the charcuterie board, and it absolutely blew me away. I’m a big fan of charcuterie, I take it seriously, and this one was amazing! There was one item in particular—very pale and quite fatty—that had a spectacular flavor I had never experienced before. I was a bit heartbroken to learn that the chef makes it in-house, meaning I couldn’t just buy it whenever I wanted.
That set a high bar for my main course, but I enjoyed a lovely trout dish, beautifully presented on a bed of pearl couscous and veggies, with a small puff pastry on the side. It was a fantastic mix of flavors and textures!
And to top it all off, I couldn’t resist the classic French dessert: mousse au chocolat. For the price we paid, it was truly an exquisite meal!
They also have a great wine selection and solid options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners. The spinach and mushroom pie or the French onion soup both sound delicious!
Have you ever tried a tartiflette or a perfectly seasoned salade de boeuf? These are must-haves when you visit! And don’t skip dessert—whether you go for the rich mousse au chocolat or the decadent crème brûlée, there’s something here for every sweet tooth.
The prices are flexible, too, with dishes ranging from €7 to €50.
Pro tip: If you’re as serious about tea as me, you’ll love the big pots they serve here. None of that sad tea bag in a cup business— It’s a small detail, but it adds to the experience.
Curious about the atmosphere? It’s warm and welcoming. Even when it’s busy, the place stays perfectly calm, with friendly staff who make sure you’re having a great time. Add in those river views and night lights, and you’ve got a setting that’s hard to beat.
As Hemingway once said, “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you.” A visit to The French Table will leave you feeling the same way.
Is The French Table worth it? Absolutely! With amazing food, warm service, and a cozy atmosphere, it’s truly one of Limerick’s hidden gems. Plus, booking is super easy with their user-friendly website. If you’re in town, be sure to reserve a spot—this place deserves a stop on your food journey!
The Cornstore, 9 Thomas Street
Website-https://www.cornstorelimerick.com/
Location-9 Thomas Street, Limerick 00000 Ireland
Here’s another must-visit spot: the Cornstore. Located in the heart of Limerick on Thomas Street, it’s known for its lively atmosphere and chic, Manhattan-style decor—perfect for a fun night out with great food. So, what sets this place apart?
The Cornstore is all about top-quality seafood and steak, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The menu is diverse, catering to vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diners. Ever tried prawns pil pil or a perfectly prepared chateaubriand? These are just some of the standout dishes that make this restaurant truly special.
In our case, when the server mentioned there was just one portion of crab claws left, we couldn’t resist ordering it, along with the smoked salmon starter. Both were incredibly tasty! For the main course, we went with the chateaubriand to share, and let’s just say it lived up to every bit of the hype—it was exceptional! The dish came with mashed potatoes, spinach, roasted carrots and parsnips, onion rings, and a variety of sauces. I’d definitely recommend trying it at least once—it was so much delicious food!
Our waitress, Sandra, was fantastic, topping up my wine glass without being asked and ensuring we were well taken care of. To make it even more special, she added a sparkler to our birthday lady’s dessert, accompanied by three or four staff members singing “Happy Birthday.” It was such a delightful, personal touch—apparently, it’s their regular gesture!
And dessert? We went all in with the sticky toffee pudding and black pudding mash. The sticky toffee pudding was among the best I’ve ever tasted, and the black pudding mash was so delicious that, even full, we kept going back for more. We wrapped it up with the perfect-sized apple crumble.
Another fan favorite here is the Chocolate Chip Cookie Pan, andand I’m already planning my next visit just to try it! Some diners say it’s the best cookie dessert they’ve ever had—now that’s a reason to come back!
I must say, the variety on the set menu at The Cornstore will definitely surprise and impress you. You can kick things off with options like chicken wings or the highly recommended mini lobster rolls. For mains, you can’t go wrong with the dry-aged sirloin steak or the flavorful belly pork served with black pudding mash. If you’re feeling adventurous, the set menu at €39.50 offers fantastic value with plenty of tasty choices!
The vibe at The Cornstore is warm and welcoming, with attentive staff who really know how to make you feel at home. They even let us order a glass of wine that was only available by the bottle on the menu, which I really appreciated. Even though it’s a busy spot, I always got friendly service, with a team that’s happy to recommend wines and cocktails to pair with meal.
Pro tip: the Cornstarch Martini is one of their specialty cocktails, though opinions may vary on that one!
But what’s the price range, you ask? Expect to pay between €20 and €37 for mains, making it a great option whether you’re looking for a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion.
Now, a quick heads-up—like any restaurant, experiences can vary. While most rave about the food and service, there have been a few mixed reviews, especially regarding steak quality and slow service for larger groups. But overall, The Cornstore’s reputation as one of Limerick’s top dining spots holds strong.
So, are you ready to check out The Cornstore? What would you try first? Let me know your thoughts! And make sure to book ahead since it’s super popular, even on weekdays!
1826 Adare, Church View, Adare
Website: https://1826adare.ie/
Location: Church View, Adare, Co. Limerick, V94 R672, Ireland
1826 Adare is another Michelin-starred gem but with its own unique charm. Built-in 1826 by the first Lord Dunraven, the cottage fits right into the picture-perfect village of Adare. It is known for its colorful buildings and charming thatched roofs. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a warm, friendly atmosphere.
So, if you’re after a delightful, intimate dining experience in Ireland, 1826 Adare is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for anyone who loves locally sourced food served in a charming, character-filled space. Run by husband-and-wife team Wade and Elaine Murphy, this cozy thatched cottage restaurant has a special, personal touch. Wade, as head chef, carefully curates a menu that proudly showcases the best of Irish produce, like Dooncastle oysters and the famed Skeaghanore duck from West Cork.
We started with the beer-battered monkfish scampi and heirloom tomato with mozzarella, and for the main, we both went for the braised short rib. We wrapped up the meal with a chocolate and walnut tart and an eton mess.
The tomato and mozzarella were incredibly fresh, the garlic chive aioli with the scampi was delicious, and wow— that braised short rib was hands-down the best I’ve ever had! It was cooked perfectly, with a rich, flavorful sauce and meat so tender it practically melted. As for dessert, the chocolate and walnut tart is an absolute must! The texture, flavor, and ice cream were spot on—not overly sweet, just perfect. I’m craving it all over again just thinking about it!
The dishes were not only beautifully presented but packed with flavor. It’s easy to see why this place earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2016 and 2017. Highlights include the black sole served on the bone, a crowd favorite, and the indulgent braised short rib, which guests rave about (I did too).
There are also vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, but I believe they could improve in this area. The vegetarian option (there was only one!) felt basic and used inexpensive ingredients, so it didn’t offer much value for the price. Starters were around €13, mains €26.50, and sorbet about €7.
I see real potential for this restaurant to channel its passion into creating more inviting and imaginative vegetarian dishes, offering greater variety for non-meat eaters.
As for pricing, there’s great value for the quality on offer, with dishes ranging from $27 to $56. On Sundays, they even offer a late lunch menu that has become popular for those looking for a relaxed yet refined meal without breaking the bank.
One of the highlights is the hands-on approach by Wade and Elaine themselves. The duo is always present, ensuring every detail is perfect. This personal touch, combined with the cozy, historic setting, makes for a truly memorable dining experience.
The ambiance and service deserve a special mention too. The charm of the old cottage vibe, combined with the warmth of the staff, was the cherry on top. They were so friendly and made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. We made the 25-minute drive from Limerick city center, and it was absolutely worth it!
So, when are you taking a trip to Adare and experiencing the charm of this Michelin-recognized gem?
Coqbull – Castletroy, Unit 23, Castletroy Shopping Centre, Dublin Rd
Website: https://coqbullcastletroy.ie/
Location: Unit 23, Castletroy Shopping Centre, Dublin Rd, Newcastle, Limerick, V94 DFW5, Ireland
For a family outing with kids, where patient and welcoming service is key, I’d absolutely suggest Coqbull-Castletroy. The team here is always so friendly and accommodating—it’s like they’ve perfected the art of family-friendly service! So, if you’re after a fun, laid-back dining experience, Coqbull is a great pick. And don’t worry—it’s not just about great service; the food is fantastic too!
The name “Coqbull” comes from their focus on fresh, local ingredients, cooked with great flavors from marinades, rubs, and chargrilling. With spots in both Cork and Limerick, they’re known for a fantastic menu loaded with perfectly cooked chicken, gourmet burgers, and delicious sides.
Specializing in juicy steaks, chicken dishes, and a wide variety of burgers, it truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a meat lover or looking for vegan options, you’ll find plenty to enjoy! Ever tried their Classic Bull burger or the hilariously named vegan Pulled Like a Piggy burger? Both are crowd-pleasers. If you’re in the mood for wings, their BBQ wings and chicken wings are must-tries too.
I went for the pasta dishes the first time, and I can’t recommend the chicken and chorizo penne enough—it was so tasty!
As I mentioned, the staff here are fantastic. Whether I’ve come alone or with a group of 9, they’ve always been super attentive and on top of everything. I’ve brought vegetarian friends, and they were really impressed with the options too—props to the team for that! The Veggie Jack breakfast is always spot-on, and the Jack Fruit burger is also a winner.
Plus, for groups, it’s a bonus that they let you pay separately (even though I know it’s probably a hassle for them).
And for dessert, you can’t miss the Oreo cheesecake or the indulgent hot fudge sundae—both are fantastic choices. To wrap up the meal, definitely try one of their popular cocktails or local craft beers. Their espresso martini is particularly popular if you’re in the mood for something with a kick.
Price-wise, Coqbull is pretty affordable, with dishes ranging from €7 to €18. A meal for two, including mains and dessert, will set you back around €50, making it a fantastic option for a casual date night or dinner with friends. The vibe here is upbeat and lively, whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or settling in for a relaxed dinner. And, the service is always excellent, adding to the easygoing and welcoming atmosphere.
While most people rave about the food, there are some mixed reviews about certain dishes. For example, a few found the mushrooms overdone on the sharing platter, but overall, it’s clear that the positives far outweigh any minor hiccups.
Freddy’s Restaurant, Theatre Ln, Lower Glentworth St, Prior’s-Land
Website: https://www.freddysrestaurant.com/
Location: Theatre Ln, Lower Glentworth St, Prior’s-Land, Limerick, V94 T3K1, Ireland
If you’re looking for a delightful dining experience, let me introduce you to Freddy’s Restaurant. Set in a charming stone coach house, this venue is known for its superb food and warm atmosphere. But what makes Freddy’s stand out in the restaurant scene?
Freddy’s features a diverse menu that includes Irish and European dishes, with plenty of healthy options. Whether you’re craving a comforting lamb shank, fresh mussels, or perfectly cooked sea bass, there’s something to satisfy everyone. And dessert lovers will definitely want to try the sticky toffee pudding!
What can you expect on the menu? You can kick off your meal with a light starter like sourdough with sea-salted butter or delicious prawn pil pil. For the main course, you can’t go wrong with the smash burger or tender pork belly. If you’re in the mood for something satisfying, the fillet steak is highly praised for being cooked just right.
During our visit, we started with mussels and ordered steak (medium) topped with potatoes and an onion ring, served with garlic butter for me and pepper sauce for my partner. For dessert, we enjoyed a chocolate dome and the sticky toffee pudding, all washed down with some Prosecco and Garryowen lager.
The food was flawless, and we can’t wait for our next visit. We appreciated the relaxed pacing between courses, which allowed us to enjoy our wine and conversation. With starters, mains, dessert, and coffee for just €114, the value was excellent!
You will find the atmosphere at Freddy’s warm and inviting, with dim lighting and soothing music that sets the stage for a perfect date night or special celebration. The staff is well-trained and attentive, making sure everything goes smoothly from beginning to end. I found the service was truly exceptional—very welcoming and accommodating, especially during the busy holiday season. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the owner, Liz, who was an incredible host and shared some fantastic wine recommendations. Liz is often praised for her friendly welcome and commitment to excellent service.
Price-wise, you can expect to pay between €25 and €28 for mains, making it a bit more upscale than some other local options, but absolutely worth it for the quality of food and service. A fantastic four-course meal can set you back around €50 for two people, which is reasonable for such a wonderful dining experience.
So, are you ready to check out Freddy’s? What would you like to try first—the lamb shank, the mussels, or maybe that famous sticky toffee pudding? Let me know your thoughts!
