Quick! I say Irish food, you say???

If your mind jumps to the Irish breakfast or maybe fish & chips, I can’t say I blame you. Nor will I shudder at that because both are so. very. good.

Woodview Farmhouse Breakfast

But did you know that Ireland has had a bit of a ‘food revolution’ for the past few years? While you’ll still find classics like Shepherd’s Pie and Irish Stew on pub menus, it’s likely to be listed next to Herbed Goat Cheese or a Roast Breast of Chicken.

B&B Welcome - Old Bank Bruff

Ireland’s food culture has gone from bland to bazinga – creating ‘must eat’ destinations!

Eating in Ireland for Foodies

Local. Sustainable. Fresh.

That’s what eating in Ireland is about now, whether in the seaside pubs or the 5* castles. Indulge yourself as I take you to a few of my most favorite dining spots in Ireland for foodies.

Let’s begin with dessert first. Murphy’s Ice Cream, handmade in Dingle, with shops also found in Killarney and Dublin, creates the most delightful concoctions. Their slogan is “Ice Cream that knows where it’s coming from”- and for good reason. Local milk and cream, hand harvested honeycomb, they even harvest their own sea salt! My personal favorite is the Caramelized Brown Bread, with Caramel Honeycomb a close second. But I leave it for you to choose your own favorite (no one will judge you for daily visits!).

Murphy's Ice Cream

On the western coast of Ireland near the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, the Burren has risen to become one of Ireland’s new foodie destinations. The best way to explore all the area has to offer is to follow the Burren Food Trail. Here you will find incredible restaurants as well as the local providers of seafood, produce, farm raised meats, and fresh dairy products. One of our favorites along this tasty trail is Kilshanny House, a local pub where the food is as delicious and beautiful as the welcome is warm and inviting. 

Deliciousness at Kilshanny House

Irish Castle Hotels are known for their 5 star lodgings and equally stellar food. Ashford Castle in County Mayo doesn’t disappoint. From spectacular afternoon teas and simple cheese plates in the bar to a romantic 5 course meal in the George V Dining Room, everything is perfectly presented and undeniably luxe.

Ashford Castle Afternoon Tea

Ashford Castle Cheese plate in Prince of Wales Bar

Smoked Salmon at Kinnity Castle, Co Offlay

For quick, fresh, and delicious food look for an Avoca Café or Food Market. You’ll find wonderful sit-down meals, chilled items for the perfect picnic, or entrees to take and heat at your lodging. And all meet the Avoca standards of using great natural ingredients, used adventurously, at a terrific value.

Avoca Powerscourt House - picnic in the Gardens

Foodies rejoice! Ireland is waiting for you to come and discover her new taste! Of course, no one will fault you if you end your Ireland vacation with a beautifully fresh plate of fish & chips.

Fish and Chips, Kinnity Castle, Co Offlay

Jody Halsted has been traveling across Ireland for over a decade with her own children, discovering the most family friendly sites and activities on the tourist trail and off. Dedicated to Ireland family travel, her website Ireland Family Vacations, provides exceptional advice for a magical Ireland vacation. For families looking for a perfectly tailored Ireland vacation, Jody offers Ireland vacation coaching, working with your family to help you choose the perfect lodging, destinations, and activities to fit your budget, interests, and expectations.

All photos courtesy and copyright Ireland Family Vacations