DINING in Ireland’s county Waterford

County Waterford celebrated as Ireland’s oldest city and a foodie destination, boasts a vibrant dining scene that highlights its coastal location, fresh seafood, and rich local produce like the iconic Waterford loaf of white bread, blaas.

Waterford’s dining scene emphasises its coastal location, with fresh seafood from Dungarvan and Dunmore East, alongside local beef, lamb, and the iconic Waterford loaf of white bread. The county was named Ireland’s top foodie destination in 2019, reflecting its strong food community.

Waterford has no Michelin-starred restaurants, but The Munster Room and Everett’s are Michelin-recommended for their high standards.

Fine Dining

These restaurants offer sophisticated dining experiences with premium ingredients, elegant settings, and exceptional service, showcasing Waterford’s seafood and local produce.

The Munster Room Restaurant (Waterford Castle Lodge, Waterford City). Located in the luxurious Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort on a private island, The Munster Room is Waterford’s premier fine dining venue, holding 2 AA Rosettes and a spot on McKenna’s 2026 Best Restaurants list. Diners can expect an opulent, historic ambiance with oak-paneled walls, attentive service, and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, including Dungarvan seafood and Waterford beef. Ideal for special occasions, the intimate setting enhances the culinary experience. Reservations are essential. Highlights include Dungarvan Ale-brined chicken supreme with sausage stuffing and Catalan fish stew, praised for transforming humble ingredients into sensational meals. The Munster Room is introducing a new plant-based tasting menu, featuring organic produce from local farms, alongside an enhanced wine-pairing experience with Irish selections. Address: The Island, Ballinakill, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 Y722
Everett’s (Waterford City). Housed in the 15th-century John Collyn House, Everett’s offers a fine dining experience steeped in history, with a front room and intimate wine vault dating back to the 1460s. Led by Waterford native Chef Peter Everett, a Eurotoques Young Chef of the Year, the restaurant combines modern Irish cuisine with local produce. Diners can expect a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, exceptional service, and beautifully presented dishes. It’s praised for outperforming its status and is ideal for a memorable meal. Booking weeks in advance is recommended due to high demand. Standouts include perfectly cooked scallops, monkfish, and beef shoulder, with the homemade brown bread noted as the finest by reviewers. Everett’s is launching a new seasonal seafood menu, focusing on Dungarvan Bay catches, and introducing private dining events in the historic wine vault. Address: 22 High St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 Y983
La Boheme Restaurant (Waterford City). Located in the historic Port of Waterford building on Georges Street, La Boheme offers a fine dining experience with a South of France ambiance. The cozy, elegant setting, filled with aromas of garlic and fine wine, complements a modern French menu using Irish local ingredients. Diners praise the passionate owners, friendly service, and surprisingly affordable prices for the quality, making it perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions. The goat cheese croquet and Vietnamese salmon are highlights, noted for their exceptional flavors and presentation. La Boheme is introducing a new chef’s tasting menu, featuring Waterford’s seasonal produce, and expanding its outdoor dining area for a French-style al fresco experience. Address: 2 Georges St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 AH24

Casual Dining

Casual restaurants in Waterford offer relaxed atmospheres with high-quality food, blending local and international cuisines, ideal for everyday dining or group gatherings.

Momo Restaurant (Waterford City). An award-winning restaurant on Patrick Street, Momo offers a casual dining experience with a relaxed, modern atmosphere. The menu celebrates international cuisine using Waterford’s best local produce, prepared with finesse. Diners praise the friendly staff, fresh flavors, and seasonal menu changes, making it a go-to for families or casual nights out. It’s also vegan-friendly, with several plant-based options. Standouts include smoked cod risotto with bacon and maple syrup and slow-cooked beef ribs with roasted parsnips and garlic puree, noted for their bold, primal flavors. Momo is introducing a new small-plates menu, ideal for sharing, and expanding its outdoor seating for a more casual al fresco experience. Address: 47 Patrick St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 DX76
Bodega Restaurant & Wine Bar (Waterford City). Located on John Street, Bodega is a vibrant, eclectic restaurant offering casual dining with Mediterranean influences. Awarded Best Casual Dining Restaurant in Waterford and Munster by the Restaurant Association of Ireland, it features local produce, fresh seafood, and steaks in a raucous, fun atmosphere. Diners love the bold decor, excellent cocktails, and warm service, ideal for brunch, dinner, or group celebrations. The seafood platter and chargrilled Waterford beef steak are favorites, praised for their fresh, local flavors and generous portions. Bodega is launching a new brunch menu, featuring local artisan products, and introducing monthly live music nights to enhance the lively vibe. Address: 54 John St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 XW67
Emiliano’s (Waterford City). A traditional Italian restaurant on High Street since 2000, Emiliano’s offers a casual dining experience with a homely, family-friendly ambiance. The menu features authentic Italian dishes crafted with passion by experienced chefs. Diners praise the warm service and consistent quality, though booking two weeks in advance is advised due to popularity. It’s ideal for families or relaxed Italian meals. Highlights include Antipasto Della Casa, Gamberi alla Diavola (spicy prawns), and crispy Arancini, noted for their authentic flavors. Emiliano’s is introducing a new vegan Italian menu, featuring plant-based pasta and pizza options, and expanding its outdoor terrace. Address: 21 High St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 X7YH
McLeary’s Restaurant (Waterford City). Situated on Parade Quay with stunning River Suir views, McLeary’s offers a casual dining experience in a sleek, modern setting with gleaming wood floors. The menu features quality dishes using local ingredients, served in an unfussy atmosphere. Diners enjoy the option for alfresco dining on the terrace (weather permitting) and the relaxed yet polished vibe, perfect for lunch or dinner. The seafood chowder and grilled Waterford lamb chops are popular, praised for their fresh, local flavors and presentation. McLeary’s is launching a new Sunday brunch menu, featuring Waterford’s iconic loaf of white bread and local seafood specials. Address: 1 Parade Quay, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 X7Y2
360 Cookhouse (Dungarvan). Adjoining Dungarvan Castle, 360 Cookhouse offers a casual dining experience with a bright, modern atmosphere. The menu features full meals, light tapas, and great cocktails, emphasizing local produce like Dungarvan seafood. Diners appreciate the dog-friendly vibe, friendly service, and proximity to the Waterford Greenway, making it ideal for relaxed meals or post-cycle dining. The Dungarvan seafood platter and slow-cooked pork belly are favorites, noted for their fresh, bold flavors. 360 Cookhouse is introducing a new plant-based tapas menu, catering to vegan diners, and expanding its outdoor seating for Greenway visitors. Address: Castle St, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, X35 XN99
Peppers Restaurant (Waterford City). Located on Merchants Quay, Peppers is a popular casual restaurant specializing in Indian cuisine with contemporary twists. The vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service make it a favorite for curry lovers and families. Diners praise the high-quality ingredients and creative dishes, ideal for a relaxed yet flavorful meal. The Sikhandari Raan (slow-roasted lamb shank with Kashmiri chili) and Papeeta Jhol (cod in Bengali-inspired broth) are standouts, celebrated on Gordon Ramsay’s F Word. Peppers is introducing a new lunch special menu, offering affordable set meals, and launching a cooking class series for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. Address: 2 Merchants Quay, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 V32H
Sabai Thai and Vietnamese Restaurant (Waterford City). Situated in the historic Viking Triangle, Sabai offers a casual dining experience with authentic Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. The cozy, modern setting and friendly service create a welcoming vibe, ideal for families or casual dinners. Diners praise the fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a standout for Asian cuisine in Waterford. The tom yum soup and massaman curry are highlights, noted for their authentic, vibrant taste. Sabai is introducing a new vegan Thai menu and expanding its outdoor seating for a more relaxed dining experience. Address: 19 John St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 P51F

Budget Dining

Budget-friendly restaurants in Waterford provide affordable, tasty meals in laid-back settings, ideal for quick bites or casual outings.

The Old Couch Café (Waterford City). An intimate cafe with just four tables, The Old Couch Café offers a budget-friendly dining experience with a casual fine dining twist. The seasonal menu features creative dishes using local produce, served in a characterful, cozy setting. Diners praise the beautifully balanced flavors and affordable prices, ideal for a unique yet budget-conscious meal. The homemade soups and seasonal salads are favorites, noted for their fresh, creative presentation. The Old Couch Café is introducing a new grab-and-go menu, featuring budget-friendly sandwiches and pastries, and hosting monthly pop-up dinner events. Address: 11 O’Connell St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 YX52
Hook & Ladder (Waterford City). A popular budget-friendly cafe on O’Connell Street, Hook & Ladder offers homemade breakfasts, lunches, and baked goods in a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Diners praise the amazing coffee, tasty food, and excellent value, making it a favorite for quick meals or coffee breaks. It’s ideal for families or solo diners seeking quality on a budget. The vegetarian breakfast and freshly baked scones are highlights, noted for their wholesome, delicious taste. Hook & Ladder is expanding its vegan pastry range and introducing eco-friendly packaging for takeaways. Address: 130 O’Connell St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 W8P7
The Granary Cafe (Waterford City). Located in the Viking Triangle, The Granary Cafe offers budget-friendly dining with a focus on home-cooked food in a casual, friendly setting. The menu includes breakfasts, sandwiches, and soups, with a focus on local ingredients. Diners appreciate the swift service, tasty food, and affordable prices, ideal for a quick bite near Waterford’s attractions. The homemade soup with Waterford loaf of white bread and gourmet sandwiches are favorites, offering great value and flavor. The Granary Cafe is launching a new loyalty program, offering discounts for regular customers, and introducing seasonal salad bowls. Address: 1 Great George’s St, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 AH24
Shake Dog Waterford (Waterford City). An American-style eatery near the Travelodge, Shake Dog offers budget-friendly dining with a varied menu of burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast options. The pleasant ambiance and quick, efficient service make it ideal for dine-in or takeaway. Diners praise the quality ingredients, like thick-cut Irish bacon, and great value, perfect for a casual meal. The “Dirt Bird” burger with fries is a standout, noted for its juicy flavor and affordability. Shake Dog is introducing a new budget-friendly combo meal deal, featuring plant-based burger options. Address: Ballybricken, Waterford City, Co. Waterford, X91 P51F
The Lemon Tree Café (Dunmore East). Located at Dunmore East Harbour, The Lemon Tree Café offers budget-friendly dining with a strong reputation for fresh, local food. The casual, coastal setting and friendly service make it ideal for a quick lunch or coffee by the sea. Diners praise the affordable prices and quality, perfect for visitors exploring Waterford’s coast. The seafood chowder and open-faced seafood sandwiches are highlights, noted for their fresh, local flavors. The Lemon Tree Café is introducing a new summer pop-up menu, featuring budget-friendly salads and light bites for outdoor dining. Address: Harbour Rd, Dunmore East, Co. Waterford, X91 V32H

Dining in Ireland

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Award winning restaurants

County Waterford:

Ireland’s county Waterford is steeped in Viking and medieval history, with Waterford City’s Reginald’s Tower and Viking Triangle showcasing ancient artefacts. The Copper Coast, a UNESCO Geopark, offers dramatic coastal walks, while the Lismore Castle gardens provide serene beauty. Other attractions include the beaches of Tramore and historic Dunmore East. Waterford is Ireland’s 21st largest county by size (1,838 square km) and 20th largest by population (127,363). Population peaked at 196,187 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 71,439 in 1961. In terms of hospitality, Waterford is Ireland’s ninth most visited tourist county with around 225,000 international visitors per year.

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