Who would have thought Ireland would ever become a hub for outdoor dining?
Al fresco dining has become a very popular thing on our isle, and I have to say I’m not complaining about it.
Yes, we may need a few more layers of clothes than you do in other countries, but layers can be stylish and fresh air on your face gives you a glow. Once it’s not raining. Too much.
Things aren’t looking brilliant for date nights at the moment, but you can still sit outside in some of your favourite spots in Cork for the next few weeks and support local businesses.
Here are some of our favourite places still doing table service outside in Cork.
Clancys
A favourite in Cork, Clancys is located on Prince Street and will continue to serve outside the front of the restaurant for any locals who want to go for an outdoor meal.
River Club
The outside area in River Club is the spot you will want to sit, whether inside is open or not.
It’s beautifully decorated and very Instagrammable. Honestly, this place makes sitting outside like something from a fairytale, so treat yourself to a little booking on the patio.
Goldbergs
Goldbergs on the docks will be looking after their customers over the next few weeks in their outdoor dining space.
They do everything from burgers to brunch, so if you find yourself looking for a place to sit and eat outside around the docklands, this is your place. The burgers and sandwiches are as delicious, as are the Instagram pictures of them.
Orso Kitchen
You will be happy to hear this very popular restaurant in Cork City will remain serving tables over the coming weeks.
Bring a coat or two for their cute outdoor area, but the staff are brilliant and so is the food so they will distract you from even the coldest of nights. They have cut their hours down though, so book a table so you’re not disappointed!
Coqbull Cork
Coqbull have recently added some heaters to the front of their place, so you’ll get to stay warm enough while you eat.
They’ve got delicious rotisserie chicken, cocktails and a delicious spice bag to keep you busy. Make sure to book though, because outdoor spots are limited.
Tom Barry’s
Thanks to their gorgeous outdoor area, Tom Barry’s are able to stay open serving diners outside their famous spot. The only rule is that every guest has to order a pizza, but that sounds okay to me.
Good Day Deli
Another spot famous for their weekend brunch menu in Cork is Good Day Deli, and they have a sheltered outdoor dining space where you can still enjoy some eggs Benedict with some stunning views of Nano Nagle Place.
Perfect for a stroll after you’ve filled yourself.
Sage 2.0
There’s nothing like a few picnic tables and some delicious food to keep al fresco dinning in Cork alive!
Sage restaurant are offering dining services with blankets, so if you didn’t bring enough layers, you’re sorted. They will also be extending their hours so that more people can tuck into their delicious food.
Burnt Pizza Cork
Pizza al fresco sounds delicious to me – and you can get your hands on a few pizzas on Prince Street here.
Bring a coat and perch for the day. Pizza is good for lunch and dinner… and breakfast too, if you ask me.
Koto
Grab a delicious pasta while people watching outside Koto in Cork. They have limited seats outside available for the next few weeks, so you will have to book but it will be worth it.
