Planning a trip down south?

As a proud Cork girl and die hard foodie, I am forever, and I mean forever blowing my wages and spending my days sourcing and trying new places to eat and drink all over Ireland. And after spending my Christmas back home in CARK, I decided to make it my mission to create a definitive list of my favourite places to eat and drink while visiting the real capital. So, if you are planning a day trip to the rebel county (I really suggest you do) - trying to visit all 10 of these places will certainly be too big a challenge for any food lover, but it will provide you with a useful handbook on the best the city has to offer. From fast food to fancy food, incredible coffee to mouthwatering cocktails, Cork really has it all in terms of food and drink and a weekend away in this beautiful place is one you will not regret. So, without further adieu, I present you with the best bites (in no particular order) when visiting Cork.

10. Market Lane

Located on Oliver Plunkett St, Market Lane is a firm favourite of mine, serving the most delicious locally grown food - with a range of fish, meat and veggie friendly options. This place provides the perfect setting for meeting with a group of friends (plus their cocktails are divine).

9. Orso

This little gem located on Pembroke St in the heart of the city is my favourite place for lunch (when I am lucky enough to get a seat). Their med-style, Lebanese and Moroccan dishes will leave you craving more and planning your next visit. If you are adventurous with food, I guarantee you will LOVE this place.

8. SOMA Coffee Company

My latest find since I went home at Christmas but certainly one I will keep going back to is SOMA. Their coffee and minimalist setting is one that's hard to beat.

7. Il Padrino

If Italian food tickles your fancy - then I give you Il Padrino, my favourite Italian in Cork. Their weekend tapas board, risottos and pastas are mouth-watering and the atmosphere in here is always top notch. My recommendation is to book in advance as this place gets seriously busy.

6. WOWBURGER

They have just launched their first restaurant in Cork and already people are obsessed. If you fancy a quick, cheap and tasty bite, this place ticks all the boxes.

5. The Rocket Man

With two locations in the city centre, The Rocket Man is pro at creating delicious and tasty salads and falafel for the gal on the go. If it's a healthy lunch you are looking for this January, then this is your spot.

4. Ó Conaill Chocolate Shop

On French Church St you will find this beauty. The tastiest hot chocolate and brownies made with their very own chocolate. Try a milk and white hot chocolate, where they blend two bars together alongside marshmallows for the ultimate weekend treat.

3. Scoozis

If you've ever been to Cork, then you have more than likely heard about Scoozis and their chicken wings. If not, then you need to get their ASAP, their wings are so good they sell their own wing sauce (plus they have a massive menu and are very kid friendly), so this spot is ideal for the whole fam.

2. Liberty Grill

Looking for a tasty brunch until 5pm and the best pancakes ever? Then I have the place for you, Liberty Grill located on Washington St is a firm favourite with all corkconians and you will see queues out the door most days. So if you are a party of more than two (especially at the weekend), I recommend you book.

1. Cafe Mexicana

For me, no list is complete without some Mexican food and Cafe Mexicana is the only place me and my sister go to on dates together (no joke), their nachos, sangria and enchiladas will keep you going back for more, trust us. Happy dining!