The Final Draft > Healthy Eating in Kilkenny
Healthy Eating in Kilkenny
Healthy Eating in Kilkenny
Kilkenny has carved out a considerable reputation for itself as a prime foodie destination. From food festivals to farmers' markets and fine dining to fish and chips, you can be sure that Kilkenny will have a place (and a plate) for you, no matter what you're craving.
But what if you’re looking for something healthy? Whether you’re fuelling your gains, trying to drop a dress size, or just want to nourish yourself with something really nutritious, it can be tricky to find the best healthy bites if you’re visiting a city for a busy weekend. Luckily, there are lots of great options in Kilkenny for those who want to stay healthy. We’ve put together a list of the best of them to help you have a healthy time in Kilkenny.
Aroi
Aroi – meaning ‘delicious’ in Thai – is just that. Absolutely delicious Thai and Asian fusion right in the heart of Kilkenny. Just a short walk from us here at the Smithwick’s Experience, it’s the perfect place to grab a little lunch/dinner before or after your tour. While they don’t serve only healthy food, much of the menu — and East Asian cuisine in general — is naturally quite healthy.
You’ll find lots of street food classics here like Pad Thai and Fried Rice, as well as favorites like red, green and yellow curries, teriyaki, delicious ramen, and lots of different veggie-packed stir fries. There are plenty of options for the veggies and vegans among you, too.
Petronella
Tucked away on endlessly charming Butterslip Lane, just 5 minutes on foot from us here at the Experience, Petronella is a firm favorite for healthy bites in Kilkenny. Whether you’re here for brunch, lunch or dinner, you’ll find reality well put-together dishes that pay great attention to flavour combinations and rely on healthy Irish produce.
Homemade ancient grains granola or a signature breakfast salad is a perfect way to fuel a day exploring Kilkenny, or if you’re here for dinner, you can find very delicious and equally nutritious meals such as pan-seared sea bass from Kilmore Quay in Waterford or seasonal roasted veg gnocchi. Even the dessert menu has some healthier choices, like a tart and tasty berry crumble with homemade custard.
Wildflower Cafe
With a heavy focus on nourishing and healthy food, the Wildflower Cafe is a fabulous place to enjoy a hearty, healthy and very tasty lunch. Set in the stunning surroundings of the Butler Gallery, you can enjoy their works of art on a plate while you’re surrounded by works from some of Ireland’s greatest artists.
Think hearty and beautifully made ham and egg sandwiches on sourdough, poke bowls that are absolutely packed with leafy greens and lean protein, lentil stews, and flatbreads with falafel and beautifully flavoured hummus. There are even some super healthy sweet treats here, such as vitamin-packed energy balls made with dates and cacao, so you can indulge your sweet tooth while eating clean.
Fennelly’s, Callan
Just a short drive outside the city in Callan, Fenelly’s is a fantastic little cafe and restaurant where you’ll find absolutely beautiful food that’s as healthy and nutritious as it is a delight to eat. One of those places where you can taste the love and care in every bite, Fennelly’s is located in a gorgeous old pub and has a wonderfully warm and welcoming vibe.
Soups and stews, burrito bowls and salads, and charcuterie boards to die for… healthy foodies will be happy here. But it’s not only the food that’s healthy – the sense of community and the music scene are thriving too! With regular events on, the cafe is a fantastic and fun spot to visit - you might want to book ahead to ensure you get a spot.
If you're looking for a good beer garden in Kilkenny, the Barrel Yard is one of the city's top attractions.