Cork, small though it may be, has its fair share of great restaurants. It probably has something to signs up in every grocery store, restaurant, and kebab shop proudly proclaiming fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. But I digress. Perhaps not as many as there are pubs (of which there are a record-breaking 995 in the county), but enough to experiment with. My excitement for Corkonian cuisine actually began before ever stepping foot on the island, with a serendipitous re-run of Bizarre Foods, taking in place in Ireland. County Cork featured heavily, from multigenerational fishmongers in nearby Cobh, to the Farmgate Café in the English Market.
Not entirely as a result of Andrew Zimmern, during my study abroad I found myself a member of a group of like-minded brunch enthusiasts. In a stroke of breathtaking originality, we named ourselves the Breakfast Club. We attempted to try out a new brunch spot every week, and more or less succeeded. Based on these very scientifically-evaluated outings, here are my top five breakfast picks in the city of Cork, in no particular order.
Even just entering the door, or briefly waiting inside because this is café is admittedly teeny, the delicious wafting from within should convince you why Idaho merits a place on the list. For the uninitiated, as I was on my first visit, a bap is a meat-based sandwich on a soft, floury roll. Idaho offers a wonderful selection of these, other breakfast standbys, and plenty of pastries. The charming staff and cozy seats more than seal the deal!
My first experience at Tony’s was fairly gruesome, as it involved watching a German powerlifter attempt the restaurant’s (in)famous eating challenge. Nonetheless, I returned despite that traumatizing experience due to the fantastic prices (and student discount), all-day breakfast, and amusing mobster movie themed décor.
This extremely pink restaurant will always have a place in my heart. Tara’s offers a reliable breakfast, daily specials, and homey atmosphere. Like some of the other spots on this list, the wonderful people that work here are as much a part of the appeal as the delicious food.
One of the fancier options on the list, this is the sort of place you can bring a visitor (or a date) to impress them. Be warned that though every bite will be scrumptious, portions are not super generous. Splurge for an appetizer or a side. I particularly recommend any of their French toast specials.
Another cute joint on Maccurtain Street, featuring pierogis that fully rejuvenated me during exam week. In addition to these bonus Polish treats, you can get any of the mainstays of an Irish breakfast. The atmosphere tends to be quiet in this small café, seemingly populated mostly by regulars who all know each other and the owner.
Honorable mentions
Several restaurants deserve honorable restaurants for their atmosphere, specialties, even they did not make my list of all-time favorites.
Amicus: I would argue that I actually had my best meal of all time in Cork here. Their breakfast menu is slightly less impressive; however I strongly recommend this place for lunch or dinner.
River Lee Hotel: Without a doubt, this hotel’s restaurant offers the best breakfast buffet in the city. While I would not go out of my way to stop by, for those already in the area or staying at the hotel, who can say no to smoked salmon and honeycomb at breakfast?
Crawford Art Gallery Café: Eat here purely for the aesthetics, but to be fair this spot has been recognized as one of the 100 best restaurants in Ireland.
143 V Café: I haven’t forgot about vegans who may not be into the typical Irish breakfast, featuring at least three types of meat. Check out this small place with delicious, fresh food and all the fancy lemonades, kombucha, or tea you could dream of.
Perry Street Market Café: Large groups should check out this spacious, well-lit café. Their deluxe hot chocolates are worth a look (or taste!) as well.
So if you ever find yourself with Cork, here’s a starting point for the most important meal of the day!
