When you think about a picture-postcard Irish golf trip, you are probably imagining the South West. The courses are carved into magnificent dunes along breathtaking coastlines, and the towns are filled with lively pubs, traditional music, and legendary hospitality.
For many golfers, the journey begins at Shannon Airport before heading south into County Kerry. Killarney serves as the ultimate base for exploring the region’s world-class links, including Ballybunion, Waterville, and Tralee, as well as making the trip to the dramatic cliffs of Old Head.
The dining scene here is a brilliant blend of old-school Irish charm and sharp, modern technique. Whether you are after a traditional potato boxty by an open fire, a dry-aged steak, or fresh Atlantic seafood landed just down the coast, the town centre packs a serious culinary punch.
Here are a few of our favourite Killarney spots, from exceptional dining to the best traditional pints in County Kerry.
Step up the stairs on High Street and you will find yourself in what feels like a beautifully preserved Irish heirloom. Bricín is a dedicated custodian of the traditional potato pancake, or boxty. The room is a triumph of dark wood, antique glass, and warm lighting, managed with a personal touch by brothers Johnny and Paddy.
The menu is a tribute to heritage cooking, with the signature boxty being the undisputed king of the table. Whether stuffed with succulent Kerry lamb or a creamy chicken and mushroom filling, it is a dish that manages to be both humble and indulgent. Aside from the pancakes, they do a fantastic line in fresh fish and local meats. It is a great stop for anyone who wants to taste authentic Irish cooking.
Harrow brings a polished, modern brasserie feel right to Killarney’s High Street. The restaurant is centered around a serious dry-aging programme and a bespoke charcoal grill, with an open kitchen that adds a great layer of culinary theatre to the room.
The Irish heritage steaks are aged to perfection and charred with precision to bring out exceptional flavour. Combined with a sharp cocktail list and a team that really knows their stuff, Harrow has quickly become the go-to spot for those who value modern technique and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Khao is a brilliant example of how global flavours thrive in a traditional Irish town, serving as a refreshing palate cleanser for those who have had their fill of roasts and stews. The atmosphere is sharp and efficient, with a minimalist design that lets the vibrant, spicy aromas from the kitchen do the talking.
What sets Khao apart is the marriage of authentic Thai recipes with top-tier Irish ingredients. Using local prawns, beef, and poultry gives the dishes a freshness that sets them apart. The green curry is a standout, but the stir-fries are equally impressive, balancing heat and aromatic herbs with real skill.
There is a specific kind of confidence that comes from a restaurant owning its own fishing fleet, and you feel it the moment you walk into The Mad Monk. This is Plunkett Street’s shrine to the Atlantic, featuring a sharp, maritime-chic design and a social, energetic atmosphere.
You will not find overly complicated sauces or fussy garnishes here; the focus is entirely on the quality of the catch. The pan-fried scallops and native lobster are standout dishes, often appearing on your plate just hours after being landed in Caherciveen. It is a popular spot that appeals to serious seafood lovers who want the best ingredients in a setting that feels modern and lively.
Found within the Killarney Plaza Hotel, The Tan Yard is a cavernous, industrial-chic space that pays homage to the town’s tanning history through reclaimed wood, exposed metal, and rich leather finishes.
The focus here is firmly on the grill and the rotisserie, with a menu that celebrates fire-cooked meats and bold, smoky flavours. Whether you opt for the succulent rotisserie chicken or a thick-cut pork chop, the cooking is confident, making it an excellent choice for groups wanting a good meal in an interesting setting.
Killarney’s pub scene is the lifeblood of the town, where the quality of the pint is a matter of local pride and the music often carries on well past midnight. You will find everything from quiet, historic spots perfect for a conversation to sprawling venues where the fiddle playing is fast and the atmosphere is electric.
You cannot visit Killarney without stepping into Reidy’s. What looks like a small, traditional shopfront from the outside opens up into a massive, labyrinthine complex of snugs, hidden courtyards, and a large music hall. It is a visual marvel, with original shop counters and apothecary shelves still intact. The Guinness is excellent, and live music is a nightly fixture.
Often cited by locals as having one of the most consistent pints of Guinness in County Kerry, Buckley’s is part of the Arbutus Hotel. It is a traditional wood-and-stone space featuring a large open fireplace that is usually roaring in the cooler months. The atmosphere here is centered on the session; on weekend evenings, it is a dedicated spot for traditional Irish music where local musicians gather in the corner.
This is a sleek, modern take on the Irish bar, featuring an incredible wall of whiskey and a very dedicated approach to stout and craft beer. The atmosphere is refined and relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a quiet, high-quality drink or a guided tasting of some of the best whiskeys in the country.
If you want a true local’s spot slightly away from the main tourist trail, Jimmy Brien’s on College Street is the answer. It is a no-frills, traditional sporting pub decorated with decades of GAA and horse racing memorabilia. With a warm welcome and an immaculate pour, it offers an authentic feel that has retained its local identity.
Are you thinking of a trip to the South West of Ireland in 2026 or 2027? Contact our team by emailing golf@outpostoverseas.com to begin building your bespoke itinerary.
