Check Out 8 of Cork’s Best Restaurants for Father’s Day

With Father’s Day upon us, there’s no better excuse to treat the man who has spent years treating everyone else! Whether you’re planning a lunch for the special day or simply want to pick up a gift voucher for a future date, Cork is spoiled for choice.

We’ve rounded up some of the very best restaurants across the city and county places that serve exceptional food, deliver top-class hospitality and offer an experience worthy of the occasion. After all, only the best will do for Dad.

With Father’s Day upon us, there’s no better excuse to treat the man who has spent years treating everyone else! Whether you’re planning a lunch for the special day or simply want to pick up a gift voucher for a future date, Cork is spoiled for choice.

We’ve rounded up some of the very best restaurants across the city and county places that serve exceptional food, deliver top-class hospitality and offer an experience worthy of the occasion. After all, only the best will do for Dad.

The Last Drop, Cobh

A trip to Cobh is always a good idea, and with the fabulous new restaurant ‘The Last Drop‘ located right beside the railway station, we’d strongly suggest leaving the car at home and taking the train. Overlooking Cork Harbour, the views alone from the restaurant are worth the trip. Trust us when we say the Seafood Pie is absolutely superb, packed with fresh fish and prawns in a creamy white wine sauce, while the beer-battered Fish and Chips are as good as you’ll find anywhere in Cork. Add in a cracking bar with a real American members’ club vibe, plus the choice of dining on the terrace, in the restaurant or at the bar itself, and you’ve got a Father’s Day winner.  You can find out more here.

The Cornstore

A Cork institution for good reason, The Cornstore has been delivering great food, great cocktails and a buzzing atmosphere on Cornmarket Street for years. Known for its premium Irish steaks and locally sourced seafood, it’s the kind of place that never disappoints. If Dad is a steak lover, this is an easy win, while seafood fans are equally well catered for with dishes like pan-seared sea bass, grilled salmon and fresh oysters all featuring on the menu. The Manhattan-style dining room and lively cocktail bar give it a real occasion feel  giving you all the ingredients for a memorable meal with Dad. You can make a booking here.

The Elm Tree, Glounthaune

The Elm Tree in Glounthaune is one of those places that Cork people have been recommending to each other for years and once you visit, you’ll understand why. Warm, welcoming and consistently excellent, it’s the sort of place that always delivers. The chicken wings here have become legendary at this stage and if you’ve had them before, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about. Their carvery is another huge draw and is always packed with people looking for great food and generous portions in a relaxed setting. One thing we absolutely love is how they look after the designated driver. If you’re not drinking, you’ll love the way they serve their sparkling water in a gin glass with all the trimmings, making you feel like you’re still part of the occasion. It’s a small touch, but it’s details like that that make people keep coming back to The Elm Tree. To explore the menu and learn more, visit their website here.

The Castle Café & Restaurant, Blackrock Castle

We don’t think there’s anyone in Cork who doesn’t have a soft spot for Blackrock Castle. Sitting right on the water, it’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a meal. One thing we love about dining here is the setting. Whether you’re sitting inside or taking in the views outside, there’s something really special about looking out over the marina while enjoying great food. The menu has plenty to tempt you too, from Rosscarbery pork belly and Glenbeigh mussels to beautifully cooked pan-fried hake and sirloin steak. If Dad has a sweet tooth, the chocolate and honeycomb brownie with salted caramel is worth saving room for. It’s the kind of place that feels like a little escape from the city despite being only minutes away. If you’re looking to treat Dad to somewhere with a bit of atmosphere, great food and plenty of Cork charm, this is a lovely choice. Take a look at the full menu and find out more here.

The Anglers, Carrigrohane

If you’ve never been to The Anglers, this is your sign to go. Sitting right on the banks of the River Lee in Carrigrohane, it’s one of those places that feels like it’s been part of Cork forever. We love places that have a bit of history and The Anglers certainly has that, but what we really love is the setting. On a sunny day, the beer garden overlooking the river is hard to beat and you could easily spend an afternoon here watching the world go by. The stunning 1919 restaurant overlooks the water and serves beautiful food using produce from some fantastic local suppliers including Ballycotton Seafood, Twomeys Butchers, Ballinrostig Organic Cheese, Carrigcleena Poultry Farm and Clóna Dairy. We always think it’s great to see local businesses supporting each other and the quality really shines through. Order yourself a Murphy’s, soak up the views and you’ll understand why Cork people keep coming back here. Thinking of making a visit? Take a look here.

Proby’s Kitchen

Proby’s Kitchen is one of those places that people nearly don’t want to tell you about because they’re afraid it will get even busier. Located near St Finbarr’s Cathedral in the city centre, this stylish little restaurant has built up a huge following and recently earned a place in the Sunday Times Top 100 Restaurants in Ireland. One thing we love about Proby’s is that it never feels pretentious. The food is beautiful, the setting is gorgeous and the attention to detail is obvious, but it still feels relaxed and welcoming from the moment you walk through the door. With the garden now open for summer, it’s the perfect spot for a long brunch, lunch with friends or an evening meal. If you’re looking for somewhere that feels a little bit special without trying too hard, Proby’s Kitchen is well worth adding to your list. Have a look at the menu and start planning your visit here.

The Wilton Bar

The Wilton Bar has been getting plenty of attention since it was taken over by Cork publican Paul Montgomery of Clancy’s and it’s easy to see why. Nestled in the heart of Wilton, just a stone’s throw from Wilton Shopping Centre and Cork University Hospital, it’s the sort of place that has always been at the heart of the local community. Whether you’re popping in for lunch, bringing the family out for dinner or meeting friends for a catch-up, there’s a warmth to the place that makes you feel at home straight away. One thing we love is the variety on offer. From hearty Irish classics and pub favourites to breakfast, lunch and family-friendly options, there’s something to suit everyone. The Saints & Sinners menu has already been proving popular and adds another great reason to pay a visit. If Dad appreciates great food, friendly service and a proper Cork pub atmosphere, The Wilton Bar is well worth adding to your list. Planning a Father’s Day meal? Take a look at the menu here.

Marina Market

If formal dining isn’t really Dad’s thing, Marina Market is a brilliant option. One thing we love about Marina Market is that everyone gets exactly what they want. No debating menus, no trying to agree on one type of food. Whether it’s burgers, pizza, tacos, coffee, pastries or something sweet afterwards, everyone is happy. The atmosphere is always fantastic and there’s a real buzz about the place every time we visit. Better still, it’s dog-friendly, so even the family pet can join the day out. It’s casual, fun and uniquely Cork, which is probably why so many of us keep finding excuses to go back. Looking for the perfect spot for Dad? Find out more here.