The Mullichain Café
The Quay, St. MullinsCo. CarlowR95 XY93t: 051-424440e: the mullinchaincafe@gmail.comThe Mullicháin Café is part of the tastefully restored old grain store buildings that in times gone by were used by the Grand Canal Company and then Odlums, the millers. Enjoy freshly ground coffee and a range of home made scones and cakes. Or why not have a glass of wine or craft beer with an extensive menu which includes home made soups, tasty salads or a panini/ciabatta wrap accompanied by a friendly chat from proprietors Mark or Martin.https://www.facebook.com/mullichaincafe/
Bar 1808
Step House HotelMain StreetBorris, Co. CarlowR95 V2CRt: 059-9773209e: info@stephousehotel.ieGPS: 52.601116, -6.927293The Step House Hotel, a family run boutique hotel is located in the center of the pretty heritage village of Borris colloquially known as ‘Granite Town’. The Coady family are at hand to play host to some of the great stories of Ireland’s Ancient East with the hostel nestled in the valley of the Blackstairs Mountains. Bar 1808 consistently serve a combination of local produce and French flair with celebrated head chef Alan Foley regularly featured as a cooking demonstrator on TV3’s Ireland AM. Enjoy the best of Carlow’s producer from locally sourced beef and pork to locally crafted gins and pale ale with a fully licensed bar.https://www.stephousehotel.ie/
Clashganny House Restaurant
ClashgannyBorris, Co. Carlow95 C792t: 059-9771003e: clashgannyhoue@gmail.comRob and Karen White own and run Clashganny House Restaurant just outside the picturesque village of Borris. Clashganny House Restaurant was voted “Best Newcomer 2014” in the Georgina Campbell Guide, “Best Fine Dining Establishment”, “Best Eating Establishment”, “Carlow Venue of the Year Award” and “Best Restaurant” in the Carlow Chamber Awards 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2015 – 2018. Fully licensed restaurant serving wine, beer and spirits. Take-away tea/coffee all day Wed. – Sun. “With Robert’s excellent cooking, Karen’s warmly professional supervision of the dining rooms and the wonderful setting, Clashganny House offers an accessible treat for discerning diners and is set to become a key destination”. Georgina Campbell.http://clashgannyhouse.com/
Brooks Café Bistro
Dinn RíTullow Street, CarlowR93 C8X5t: 059-9133111e: info@dinnri.comSituated in the heart of Carlow, Brooks has fabulous décor, a bustling ambience and a delicious selection of menu options with something to suit everyone’s taste. is includes light bites, stone baked pizzas, scrumptious burgers, super-food salads, sandwiches and wraps, a range of classic steak, chicken and seafood dishes, speciality teas and coffees, home-baked pastries and a variety of other delightful treats. At Brooks you can enjoy an array of fresh, tasty and healthy menu options made with local ingredients. Of course there are also options for those with food sensitivities. Additionally, there is a full bar and a superb wine list.https://www.dinnri.com/https://www.facebook.com/BrooksCarlow/
Sha Roe Bistro
Clonegal, Co. CarlowY21 KH61t: 053-9375636E: sha-roebistro@hotmail.comBeautifully appointed little restaurant, in an immaculately maintained 18th century building. Henry Stone, awarded Chef of the Year 2011 by the Georgina Campbell Guide, is exceptionally talented and this delightful spot is definitely worth a detour – for Henry’s seasonal menus and outstanding cooking and the atmosphere of relaxed efficiency. Georgina Campbell Newcomer of the Year 2007, “Bib Gourmand”, Michelin Guide 2010, Best Atmospheric Restaurant Georgina Campbell Guide 2010.https://sha-roe.ie/
Café de Mode
Chapel Street Ballon, Co. CarlowR93 T226t: 087-4192355e: cafedemode101@gmail.comWinner of Carlow’s Hidden Gem 2018 – (County Carlow Chamber), winner of Best Café in Leinster 2017 (Restaurant Association of Ireland) and Rural Enterprise Champion 2018 with Carlow Local Enterprise Office. Family run with tasteful décor, Café de Mode offers customers a relaxing environment in which to enjoy a varied menu from gourmet sandwiches to lite bites, baked potatoes, homemade pancakes, scones, sweet treats and award-winning coffee. Situated off the main N80 in the beautiful village of Ballon.http://cafedemode.ie/https://www.facebook.com/cafedemode101/
McDonalds
Kennedy AvenueCarlowR93 P2Y2t: 059–9135460Since 1999 McDonald’s have been proud to serve the people of Carlow Town and county. Owned and managed locally, open seven days per week with a modern reimaged restaurant. All bacon, cheese, water and eggs are 100% Irish, together with Bord Bia certified Irish beef and National Dairy Council Irish milk. Open daily at 8 a.m. for breakfast. Sunday – Wednesday open until 11 p.m. ursday – Saturday open until midnight.
McDonald's Drive Thru
Rathcrogue, Junction 5 M9(near Carlow town).R93 N2X8Dual lane Drive Thru located at Topaz Service Station on the N80 and Junction 5 of the M9 with self-order kiosks, table service and signature burger range. Ideal for buses and large groups with generous parking and easy access from major routes. Open 24/7.
Flynn's Foodhall Tullow
Dublin Road, TullowCo. CarlowR93 A2F2t: 059–9151205e: admin@flynnsfoodhall.ieOpen daily until 11 p.m.Established in 1924, Flynns of Tullow is a 72 seat foodhall complete with Supermac’s family restaurant, Subway and Papa John’s Pizza. The foodhall includes a Spar shop with Insomnia coffee, Smooch ice cream mini parlour, off licence, ATM, Wi-fi, toilets and lottery all under one roof. 140 car parking spaces are shared with Aldi while the foodhall’s TOP Oil forecourt includes a brush wash, self-serve cabinet wash and vacuum. Buses welcome.
Teach Dolmain
76 Tullow StreetCarlowR93 NY70T: 059–9130911Teach Dolmain has built up a firm reputation for great food and fantastic service in a relaxed setting. Food is served from 9.30 a.m. for the breakfast and coffee menu, lunch is served from 12 – 3 p.m. while an extensive evening, à la carte and value menu is available from 3 – 9.30 p.m. daily. Join us every Thursday night for their famous traditional Irish music session and live ballad group. Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights also has entertainment in the form of DJs and live bands. Visitors are guaranteed a warm and friendly Céad Míle Fáilte.
Reddy's Bar and Restaurant
Tullow StreetCarlowR93 FN44t: 059–9142224e: info@reddyscarlow.ieCarlow’s oldest and longest established family run gastro pub and restaurant. Yes, we go as far back as 1768. Relax in the spacious but cosy air conditioned bar and lounge. Food served all day every day – from the full Irish breakfast to morning coffee, fresh cut sandwiches and hot carvery lunch buffet. À la carte and evening dinner menus available in the restaurant. Chef daily specials, snacks and finger food options. Various function rooms to cater for small and large parties. Special dietary requirements catered for. Large TV screens for all major sporting events. Irish music and craic every Saturday and Sunday evening in the front bar.
The Weeping Thaiger Restaurant
Mill LaneCastle HillCarlow R9 P8P8t: 059–9137000Delicious and exotic Thai cuisine prepared by highly skilled Thai chefs using only the finest, freshest ingredients available. A subtle blend of flavours are mixed together to produce a distinctive and delightful taste waiting to be enjoyed in this casual and family friendly restaurant. Takeout and delivery service also available seven days.
Toughers Bar & Restaurant
Dublin Road, Carlow, Co CarlowPhone: 059 9138010E-mail: toughersrestaurantcarlow@gmail.comRecently voted by lovin.ie as having the best breakfast in Carlow. Extra light options and slimmer’s breakfast also available. The lunch menu is Irish themed, with good wholesome, quality food at great value, served hot and fast. Chef specials feature daily. All sauces are gluten free. From 5 p.m. Monday – Saturday, à la carte menu served from the bar, a cosy area with an open fire and a very relaxing atmosphere! Two function rooms available which cater for parties for up to 200 people, sit down meals for up to 140 people.
Supermac's Family Restaurant and Papa John's Pizza
Burrin StreetCarlowR93 YH79t: 059–9130444e: carlow@supermacs.ieSupermac’s offer a unique experience of a national brand providing quality products. For clubs, societies or families seeking to host a large party or event Supermac’s set up facilities ranging from a small gazebo to a full mobile unit. Supermac’s cater for corporate events and offer a wide range of finger foods including the Papa John range of pizzas that will satisfy all guests. Free Wi-fi. Open daily.
The Lotus Chinese Restaurant
Unit 2, Kennedy Avenue(beside Carlow Shopping Centre)CarlowR93 P7W4t: 059–9131986e: lotuscarlow@gmail.comEstablished in 1988, Lotus Chinese Restaurant is the oldest and leading Chinese restaurant in Carlow. Located in the heart of Carlow Town, they have a strong reputation for exquisite food, friendly service and a range of fine wines. Offering a variety of Cantonese, Chinese and European dishes with seafood a speciality. All groups are welcome. Also features a hot pot menu as an alternative healthier option. Delivery service six days, 5 p.m. until late, student discount available.
Country Kitchen Restaurant
Haddens CentreCarlowR93 W6P0t: 059–9140613A wide range of food from an extensive salad bar including home cooked meats, scones and sandwiches. Breakfast and hot lunch served daily. Fresh home baking is a hallmark of this premises with all food cooked on site. Guests can also dine in the outdoor terrace and all food is available for take-away. Celebrating 33 years in business in Carlow with daily specials. Home cooked gluten-free meals and slimmer’s healthy options also available.
Le Fermier Restaurant
River Bank Restaurant
TullowCo. CarlowR93 A0C8t: 059–9152944All parties catered for. Coeliac friendly. Open seven days per week from 12 noon – 9 p.m. Restaurant Ireland’s Gold Standard Award 2016. RAI Irish Cuisine Award 2019.A variety of great value offers are available to suit every palate and budget. The menus offer quality Irish food including fresh fish, sourced daily from Kilmore Quay and locally sourced steak. Head chef and proprietor Sharon Smyth cooks imaginative and tasty dishes with a firm focus on local. At night time an extensive dinner and à la carte menu features lamb, beef and a selection of fresh fish. Recommended by Paolo Tullio, Irish Independent.
The Railway House Bar & Restaurant
Church Street BagenalstownCo. Carlow.R21 W688t: 059-9720676e: dowlestherailwayhouse@yahoo.comSituated in the centre of Bagenalstown, Doyle’s Railway House Bar and Restaurant is a haven for the weary shopper, a shelter for the tired traveller and a refuelling depot for the hungry passer by. A hearty carvery lunch is served daily from 12 – 2.30 p.m. and there is a full menu in the bar and restaurant from 2.30 – 9 p.m. Family run it provides well priced, delicious food in comfortable surroundings in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A function room caters for 120 people and may well be the solution for a party or business event.
Lemongrass Restaurant
Kennedy Avenue Carlow TownR93 A8N4t: 059-9139392e: carlow@lemongrass.ieAll food is hand prepared by Asian chefs using all natural ingredients – no MSG preservatives or artificial colourings. Lemongrass is the healthy option – as a lot of the food is wok fried, not only is it nonfattening it is also coeliac friendly. You should never feel too full when leaving the restaurant, but you will leave satisfied.
The Tara Arms Traditional Irish Pub and Restaurant
Church StreetTullowCo. CarlowR93 T6K8t: 059 – 9151305GPS: 52.8033451 – 6.7347945Family run, located in the centre of Tullow, Tara Arms Bar and Seasons Restaurant is committed to offering good honest food with something to suit all tastes from breakfast, carvery lunches right through to late night dining. Whether it’s a quick snack or a leisurely meal with friends, you will be welcomed in the Tara Arms. Try the New Seasons Restaurant where you can escape from the hustle and bustle and relax in its beautiful décor.
Pimento Wine & Tapas
Kennedy AvenueCarlowR93 F9Y0t: 059–9143574e: pimentowineandtapas@gmail.comPimento Wine and Tapas Bar is located in the centre of Carlow Town and was chosen as the Yes Chef Best Casual Dining venue in Leinster. Paddy Mullins and his team use as many local suppliers as possible and source the freshest ingredients to produce mouth-watering tapas dishes. Thee menu is regularly updated with new specials and changes. Great value is guaranteed with special early bird offers with 10% off all orders between 5 – 7 p.m. Large parties are catered for with discounts and flexibility in the package chosen.
Sugar & Spice Café @ Altamont Plant Sales
Altamont Walled Garden Altamont GardensBallonCo. Carlow R93 N882This café provides comfort and refreshment in the beautiful setting of the Walled Garden in Altamont, offering delightful home baked cakes and scones with freshly brewed tea and coffee. Light snacks available in the summer months.
Lennons @ VISUAL
Old Dublin RoadCarlowR93 A3K1t: 059–9179245 e: eat@lennons.ieDynamic and eclectic food is served in this contemporary and award winning restaurant and café located in the VISUAL Arts Centre in the fabulous surroundings of Carlow College. Lennons are committed to providing good honest food produced with passion and attention to detail while using only the finest Irish meat, sustainably caught fish and locally sourced ingredients. The intention is to provide a restaurant that will suit all preferences and dietary needs with a carefully chosen menu including gluten free, vegetarian and healthy options. Lennons also have a cool little coffee kiosk on Potato Market in the town centre.Winner of ‘Best Customer Service’ in Leinster at the Restaurant Association of Ireland (RAI) Awards 2017.
The Curry Garden Indian Restaurant
Graigue Village Shopping Centre Graiguecullen Carlow Town R93 A2C9 t: 059–9133422 / 087–9360991 e: info@currygardencarlow.ieFrom the tastiest starters to the creamiest or hottest curries, there’s something on the menu of the Curry Garden Indian Restaurant to suit all tastes. The fully air-conditioned 100 seater restaurant offers freshly prepared dishes using spices and herbs that are made fresh from local produce, all of which are 99.99% gluten free and free from artificial flavours, additives or MSG. All parties catered for in one of the private, spacious function rooms or takeaway for an outside catering event. Ample free and secure car parking available at all times with bus tours and large groups very welcome. Takeaway and delivery service also available.
La Boheme
Flemington House 1 Brown Street Carlow R93 WOD1 t: 059–9164832La Boheme is Carlow’s newest and only fully licensed Bar and Tapas outlet. Fitted out to the highest level and with award-winning catering staff, this establishment offers a true alternative in levels of comfort and service in Carlow Town. Located in the centre of the town’s cultural quarter, opposite Carlow Cathedral and Carlow’s National VISUAL Arts Centre, the outlet can only be described as ‘high end’ and provides guests with an experience they will want to repeat.
The Lazy River Café
Unit 1Castleview QuayGraiguecullenCarlow Town R93 ET22 t: 059–9173588 e: thelazyrivercafe@hotmail.comThe Lazy River Café set on the banks of the River Barrow along the Barrow Way walk specialises in delicious and reasonably priced cuisine, including sandwiches, low cal and lite bite options. Traditional home baking includes home-made scones, muffins, fresh breads, desserts, wraps and full dinners served in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Outdoor catering for all occasions. Free Wi-fi.
Thrive Café
Market SquareTullowCo. Carlow R93 W3K8t: 059–9151607 e: thrivecafetullow@gmail.comThrive Café is dedicated to providing processed free, refined sugar-free, nutrient dense breakfasts, snacks, smoothies and lunches to customers. They cater for all diets with a range of GF, vegan, vegetarian, dairy free options available and host a range of events and classes promoting a healthy lifestyle from within. Visit their café on the square in Tullow or follow them on social media – thrivecafetullow.
Liberty Tree Restaurant @ Talbot Hotel
Talbot HotelPortlaoise RoadCarlowR93 Y504t: 059-9153000e: sales@talbothotelcarlow.ieThe Liberty Tree Restaurant is situated on the 4th floor offering stunning views of the rolling Carlow countryside with an ambience that exudes warmth and friendliness. The restaurant offers a bill of fare centred on modern, fresh and homemade cuisine with an eclectic twist. Our chefs claim that locally sourced ingredients with a flair of creativity are key to the delicious dishes served. Exquisite array of fine wines.
The Lord Bagenal Inn
Owned by the Kehoe family since 1979, the Lord Bagenal Inn is a multiple award-winning family run hotel and restaurant set on the banks of the river Barrow in the heritage village of Leighlinbridge. Offering contemporary Irish and international cuisine using the finest local products, along with daily specials from locally sourced suppliers. AA Rosette Accredited Restaurant for Culinary Excellence 2018 – 2019. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2018 for “having one of the most outstanding wine lists in the world”.
Frederick's Restaurant @ Mount Wolseley Hotel Spa and Golf Resort
Mount Wolseley HotelSpa and Golf ResortTullow, Co. Carlowt: 059-9180100e: info@mountwolseley.ieGPS: 52.790611,-6.730338Dining at Mount Wolseley is a unique experience. Start off the evening with an aperitif in the stylish Aaron Lounge or the eclectic Wolseley Cocktail Bar. Voted “Best Hotel Restaurant in Carlow”, Frederick’s Fine Dining restaurant has also received 1AA Rosette Award for its creative and mouth watering cuisine. Renowned for its sumptuous dining and fine wine options, Mount Wolseley offers an extensive array of menus to satisfy even the most discernable palate. Recommended by Taste of Ireland with Paolo Tullio.
T.D. Molloy's @The Seven Oaks Hotel
Seven Oaks Hotel and Leisure ClubAthy RoadCarlowR93 V4K5t: 059-9131308e: info@sevenoakshotel.comTD Molloy’s Restaurant offers intimate surroundings in which to enjoy the very best of Irish and international cuisine. The executive head chef and his highly trained team carefully plan menus to suit the needs and requirements of guests using only the finest and freshest local produce. Private dining option also available. The Oaks Bar has a superb bar lunch and the popular Night Bites menu served every evening until 9.30 p.m. Sunday – Thursday, 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. No bookings required.
Plum Tree Bistro & Bar @The Woodford Dolmen Hotel
Woodford Dolmen HotelKilkenny RoadCarlowR93 N207t: 059-9142002e: info@woodforddolmenhotel.ieAwarded Carlow’s Best Hotel Restaurant and Best Casual Dining by the Restaurant Association of Ireland, the Plum Tree Bistro is highly renowned for its fabulous traditional Irish and international cuisine. Head chef Laurence, along with his dedicated team, carefully designs seasonal menus to emphasise the goodness of fresh, local produce. Service all day from breakfast to carvery lunch and a full and varied evening menu until 9 p.m. Sunday – Thursday, 9.30 p.m. Fridays and 10 p.m. Saturdays.
The Coach House Café @ Shankill Castle
Shankill CastlePaulstownCo. KilkennyR93 T8X7t: 086 397 1748e: info@shankillcastle.comSet in Shankill Castle’s beautiful 170-year-old stable yard, the Coach House Café offers seasonal light lunches, homemade cakes, organic coffee and speciality teas in a lovely rustic setting with indoor and outdoor seating. Everything is made from scratch on-site, with the seasonal ingredients grown in the walled garden or sourced from local producers, and organic where possible. Opening hours: April – October, Thursday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Facilities: Parking, wheelchair accessible.
The Green Barn at Burtown House and Gardens
Burtown HouseAthyCo. KildareR14 AE67t: 059 8623865e: info@burtownhouse.ieEasily accessible as a quick lunch stop, a more relaxed luncheon style affair or for dinner on Saturday night. Serves the freshest possible seasonal produce that comes straight from the organic kitchen garden that very morning. The ethos is on combining seasonal ingredients, using flavours, textures, and colours. The Green Barn’s interior spaces are rustic and contemporary, with an amazing view of the kitchen garden, with different art exhibitions, large photos from the acclaimed Vanishing Ireland books, as well as sculptures from Zimbabwe and by Irish artists. Antiques sourced specifically for the Green Barn are on sale in the shop.Recently launched is Jo’s Pantry and Café selling delicious fresh, seasonal produce, Irish and French cheeses, olives, preserves, homemade pestos, dips and fresh breads.
Rachel's Garden Café
Arboretum Home and Garden HeavenOld Kilkenny Road,LeighlinbridgeCo. Carlow.R93 P9F4Exit 6 off M9 motorwayt: 059–9721558e: info@arboretum.ieThe award-winning Rachel’s Garden Café at Arboretum offers a mix of both self and assisted service featuring locally sourced produce. Full Irish breakfast is served from 9 a.m. and the delicious lunch menu is served from 12 noon offering an extensive range of soups, salads, daily specials and roast of the day. A particular favourite served in Rachel’s Garden Café is the beef braised in O’Hara’s Stout which is brewed by the Carlow Brewing Company, only 5 km down the road. The delicious tempting desserts are all made on the premises and special dietary needs are catered for with gluten, sugar or dairy free options. Full children’s menu and an indoor and outdoor play zone and fun maze. Delightful afternoon tea options are also available on booking. Bookings for groups and tours are welcome.
The Merry Tree Restaurant @Rathwood
Rathwood, RathTullowCo. CarlowR93 X3F9t: 059- 9156285From a light snack to a full meal the award-winning Merry Tree Restaurant has it all; seating 300 in a spacious and comfortable restaurant. Rathwood is famous for its homemade desserts. Hot food lunches seven days per week with a full deli and sandwich range including local, organic salads. Full Irish breakfast Monday – Saturday with buy one get one free each Saturday morning until 11 a.m. Children’s menu and free outdoor children’s play garden makes it a great place for younger folk to eat too!
