Chef Michael McManus has taken over the kitchen in this charming spot , where his goal is to steer clear of overcomplicating food and to create memories. The original stone cottage has been significantly extended inside and out, and it opens all week for breakfast, lunch and early dinner. With two terraces, it’s a popular spot with walkers and swimmers who come for the ham hock benny, crispy hake tacos or the Blackrock poke bowl. JC
The outdoor tables don’t stay free for long on sunny days at David and Petra Hayes’ daytime cafe. Celebrating six years in business, it has become part of the rhythm of Adare and is especially popular for weekend brunch. Regulars return for Turkish eggs, wild mushroom ragout with poached egg on sourdough, and brioche French toast tiramisu. CH
Recognised with a Michelin Bib Gourmand in February this year, owner Sally O’Brien serves food that draws on local suppliers in this cosy restaurant with a long counter for walk-ins, a smaller room at the back and seating in the garden. On the menu, Castletownbere fresh crab salad sits alongside Ardsallagh goats cheese with beetroot, medallions of pork fillet with Madeira mushroom sauce, and Mediterranean fish stew. CH
The menu here bursts with summer, pairing hyperlocal ingredients with south Pacific and New Zealand influences – the Kai Moana Fish Tacos exemplify the approach. Picture-perfect brunch-style plates and bakes taste even better thanks to the setting: the cafe is tucked into the tranquil gardens of Nano Nagle Place, with plenty of outdoor benches. A true city sanctuary. AD
In a world of cookie-cutter brunches, this Co Wicklow cafe is always ahead of the game. Familiar favourites come with fresh takes – think Japanese milk bread French toast, eggs on fried Guinness and walnut bread and always impressive bakes. It gets even better in the summer when diners can spill out from the tent to the garden. AD
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It’s a good sign when local gardaí pull up to eat their lunch alongside you. Helen’s Bar is just that kind of place, a traditional pub/B&B perched on the edge of Kenmare Bay, with ample outdoor seating for summer months. The rugged mountains of the Beara Peninsula and the sparkling sea form a magnificent backdrop to a pint of the black stuff and some classic seafood. JC
Dublin’s take on a California taco truck sits at Fingers Crossed Farm in the north of the county. Here, chef Jeremy Cuevas serves California-style Mexican food inspired by his grandmother, spotlighting Irish produce and local farm crops. Smoky slow-cooked meats and zingy toppings feature on the street food menu, alongside weekend brunch, a Saturday tasting menu and a sometimes available secret menu, all enjoyed on ample outdoor seating. AD
Since the 1970s, Manning’s has been central to west Cork food producers, specialising in farmhouse cheeses, charcuterie, gourmet food items and fine wines. It’s practically a mandatory stop when driving to Bantry or Glengarriff and only those possessed of iron resolution will leave empty handed. During the day, the cafe offers coffee from Kenmare’s Babor Beans as well as fresh sandwiches and treats, transitioning to a tapas menu on weekend evenings. JC
After a slight setback last year, one of Ireland’s most revered food trucks has relocated out the back of Campbell’s at the Reek pub, in the foothills of Croagh Patrick. The views have changed, but the…