Beyond Meat and Potatoes

Upon arrival I was well warned about the below-average Irish cuisine. Given my love for food this was a huge concern of mine. However, after a few months of dining around Cork I've discovered a few places I will not want to say goodbye to. This list includes a variety of above-average restaurants!

1. Ramen

Ramen  is an Asian Street Food inspired restaurant featuring healthy natural dishes. Ramen is both a takeout and dine-in restaurant. Their extensive menu includes curry, ramen and rice based dishes. Ramen cooks their food with the goal of reducing calories, sugar, salt, and going organic. My favorite dishes are "Pad Thai" and "Naturally Ramen Stir Fry." The meals are well priced around 11 euro. The wait time can get long (40 minutes max); however, it is well worth the wait. Perhaps the best feature of the restaurant is the unlimited complimentary ice cream. Everyone is given a cone to fill up themselves at the ice-cream machine. Yes, this can be dangerous. You will never leave Ramen with an empty stomach!


2. Franciscan Wells

Franciscan Wells, located in the city centre, is the perfect place for a cozy and casual dinner. Fran Wells is known for their oven-fired pizza and craft beer. Both simple and exotic pizzas are available ranging from 10-12 euros! Outdoor and indoor seating are available. The courtyard contains a variety of seating including benches, couches and high tops. The heat lamps and hanging lights provide warmth on cold fall nights. Several nights a week Fran Wells hosts traditional Irish bands to play live music for their pizza lovers!


3. Joes + Bros 

Joe + Bros is a newly opened café on College Road. The café has a rustic feel with friendly staff. It is very modern in atmosphere and menu. The menu features smoothies, sandwiches, and dessert. My favorites include the açai bowl and avocado toast. Joes+Bros has become a cool place for me to meet up with friends and study. Also, the music playlist is upbeat as you often see the workers dancing around the kitchen. Joes+Bros radiates a very different vibe from other Cork cafés!



4. Luigi Malones

If you are ever missing American inspired comfort food visit Luigi Malones. I would call it the 'Cheesecake Factory' of Cork. Luigi's has a huge menu offering almost everything one could ever want to eat. The appetizers are to die for-- stacked nachos and buffalo wings. Luigi's is a great place to celebrate special occasions abroad. You can't go wrong here!


5. The Bulman

The Bulman is located roughly 25 minutes from Cork in a small village, Kinsale. The Bulman offers the best traditional Irish food and seafood around. The bottom level of The Bulman is full of character with a bar and welcoming seating. The upper level is a bit fancier-- a great place for a nice dinner! The Bulman overlooks Charles Fort and the Atlantic Ocean. Tip: try the fish and chips for lunch!


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