Limerick’s full of surprises, and I’m not just talking about the castles.
Around every corner, you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Limerick, from snug little cafés and lively bistros to kitchens turning out flavors that stay with you long after the last bite.
Out of sheer curiosity and a determination to find the city’s real food gems, I visited each of these places myself, tasting, exploring and noting every detail so you can trust this list comes from first-hand experience and not just online reviews. If you’re hungry and in Limerick, here’s exactly where I think you should pull up a chair.
Keep reading to learn everything about the best restaurants in Limerick because I’m going to help you decide which place you should book next!
Viko Viko
Last weekend, a few friends and I were wandering around after a long, lazy afternoon when hunger struck. Someone mentioned Viko Viko, an Asian fusion spot in Limerick that had been getting rave reviews, 4.5 stars from over 300 Google reviewers. So we decided to give it a try. I’ll admit, I went in with modest expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised from the moment we stepped inside.
The place had a warm, welcoming vibe. Fresh flowers brightened some of the tables, the lighting was soft and inviting, and quirky little design touches added charm without feeling overwhelming. What caught our attention was a small play area tucked to one side, complete with a wheel and fun controls, which kept the kids in our group happily entertained while we browsed the menu.
We decided to share a variety of dishes, including chicken udon, pho, and bibimbap, and each one delivered big, satisfying flavors. The spice levels were perfectly balanced, and every bite felt comforting yet vibrant. I found myself stealing forkfuls from other plates, and one friend even liked the pho so much they came back later that day for more.
If I had to point out a couple of small concerns, the service was a little slow when it came to taking our order, and the bathroom could use some attention. Still, the staff were warm and thoughtful, especially with the kids, and small gestures like offering extra ketchup or handing out candy at the end made the whole experience feel personal.
If you’re looking for best restaurants in Limerick with delicious food, a relaxed atmosphere, and genuine friendliness, Viko Viko is worth every bite. For additional inquiries, call +353 61 446 918.
Aroma Coffee House
I was with my best friend in Limerick early on a Sunday morning to get some work done, and by the time we wrapped up the first bit, the craving for coffee had fully kicked in. Brunch sounded like the perfect idea, so we went wandering through the quiet streets in search of somewhere that felt welcoming. That’s when I spotted Aroma Coffee House.
With its 4.6-star rating from over 360 Google reviews, it must be doing something right. From the outside, it looked modest, but stepping inside felt like walking into a warm little hideaway from the morning chill.
The space was cozy with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, and the décor had just enough personality to make it feel inviting without trying too hard. We ordered a veggie breakfast and a goat cheese panini, both of which arrived quickly and were full of flavour.
My cappuccino stole the show, though – it came out looking like a piece of art and tasted even better than it looked. I honestly lingered over it longer than I meant to, just enjoying the moment. The staff were friendly and easy to chat with, and their recommendations made choosing much easier.
If I’m being honest, the service can be a little uneven at times, and the baby changing area could use some improvement. Small details like serving multipack crisps with meals also felt a bit out of place for a café of this quality.
But these are tiny things in what was otherwise a lovely brunch. Aroma Coffee House has that rare mix of good food, great coffee, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer than planned. If anyone is searching for the best restaurants in Limerick for a coffee date, Aroma Coffee House can be a good option.
Ask ChatGPT . For additional inquiries, you can call them directly on +353 87 152 4209.
The Grove
Last year I stopped in Limerick for a few hours during a train change and wanted more than just a quick, forgettable café stop. I was craving something wholesome, filling, and made with care. A quick search pointed me toward The Grove, a vegetarian spot in the heart of the city with a solid 4.8 rating on Google and plenty of loyal fans. It sounded promising, so I decided to give it a try before heading back on the road.
The moment I walked in, I could see why it had such a following. The space is small and simple, but full of character. It had that friendly, familiar feel where the team behind the counter seemed to know most of the customers by name. That kind of energy makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a place that values community just as much as good food.
I ordered the mushroom and leek quiche with a couple of salads on the side, and honestly, it exceeded every expectation. The quiche was rich and comforting, the flavors beautifully balanced, and the salads felt fresh and thoughtfully made. Everything tasted like it had been prepared with real purpose.
It’s not the most spacious or modern café, and seating can get a little tight during the lunchtime rush. But if you want a hearty vegetarian meal that feels like it’s been made just for you, The Grove more than lives up to its reputation as a Limerick favorite.
Papa’z Bistro
I came to Limerick to get some work done and found myself craving a proper lunch. With no one to join me, I turned to Google for help and stumbled upon Papa’z Bistro, a cosy spot on Denmark Street in the heart of the city with a strong 4.6 rating and hundreds of glowing reviews. It felt like the right kind of place to settle into for a relaxed meal before heading back to my errands.
When I arrived, the place had that easygoing buzz that instantly puts you at ease. Even in the middle of the week, it was busy with families enjoying lunch together, solo diners like me, and even a group still in their running gear from earlier that morning. The atmosphere struck a nice balance between lively and laid-back, making it easy to feel comfortable.
I ordered the sweet and spicy chicken after seeing it recommended online. The portion was generous, though it did lean a little heavily on rocket leaves, leaving me wishing for a touch more variety. The flavors were still solid, and the beef ciabatta I spotted at a nearby table looked incredible, juicy, tender, and perfectly balanced. Their pizzas seemed to be a highlight too, especially the devil pizza, which earned a big smile and thumbs-up from another diner.
The service was warm and attentive without being overbearing, and while some dishes outshine others, Papa’z Bistro is a reliable choice for a flavor-packed meal right in the City Centre. If you want to check ahead or book a table, you can reach them at +353 83 451 2226.
The Curragower Bar and Kitchen
I had a team dinner at The Curragower Bar & Restaurant while hosting colleagues from the U.S., and it quickly became one of the standout evenings of the trip. Perched along the River Shannon in Limerick’s Clancy’s Strand, with views stretching over to King John’s Castle, the location alone sets the stage for something special. Inside, the space had that perfect mix of rustic charm and polished comfort, with an atmosphere that felt both relaxed and lively. With a strong 4.6 rating and more than 1,500 Google reviews, it was clear we’d chosen a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The food more than lived up to its reputation. Several of us ordered fish mains that were cooked to perfection, fresh, full of flavour, and beautifully presented. The seafood chowder and chicken and waffles earned their own fans at the table, each dish generous without feeling over the top. Dessert was where the sticky toffee pudding stole the show: rich, gooey, and absolutely worth saving room for.
Service was friendly, attentive, and well-paced, making our group feel welcomed from the moment we arrived. The only slight downside was the room feeling a touch too warm by the end of the evening, but it didn’t take away from how much we enjoyed ourselves.
Personally, I would say The Curragower is the kind of place you’d proudly take visitors to show off the best of Limerick, with great food, warm service, and an unbeatable view. If you’d like to book a table or check availability, you can reach them at +353 87 701 4723.
The Buttery
We were in Limerick for a weekend visit and decided to have a proper breakfast before heading out for the day. A local friend had recommended this is the best restaurants in Limerick, and with a solid 4.5 rating from over 1,700 Google reviews, it seemed like a safe bet. It was a chilly morning, and the cozy, slightly vintage feel of the place immediately felt like the right choice.
I went with two other friends. I ordered the full Irish breakfast, one of them went for the buttermilk pancakes, and the other chose the four-egg omelette. All three dishes came out beautifully plated and piping hot. You could tell the ingredients were fresh. The sausages were flavorful, the toast buttery, and the eggs just perfect. The pancakes were soft and fluffy, not overly sweet, and paired well with the syrup and fruit.
The place was packed, but despite the rush, we were seated fairly quickly. The staff was friendly enough, though there was definitely a bit of stress in the air. At times it felt like the servers were just trying to keep things moving instead of actually engaging with customers. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it was noticeable. Also, the cappuccino, though tasty, was €4 which felt a bit steep.
Still, the variety on the menu, especially with gluten-free options, really stood out. I’d definitely return, maybe just on a quieter day. For a lively breakfast spot with real substance, The Buttery lives up to its name. If you want to check it out, it’s located at 10 Bedford Row, Limerick, and you can reach them at +353 61 597 668.
Swaad
It was one of those midweek evenings when neither of us felt like cooking, so my partner and I decided to try Swaad in the heart of Limerick. With a solid 4.4 rating from over 347 Google reviews, the restaurant, located centrally at Chandler House, Henry Street in Prior’s Land, has a warm and inviting ambiance, with subtle Indian decor that feels special without being too formal.
We walked in without a reservation, and though it wasn’t too busy, the staff greeted us promptly. Their friendly and attentive service made us feel right at home, and they were happy to offer helpful recommendations.
I went with the vindaloo, and my partner chose the butter chicken. Both dishes were genuinely impressive, packed with flavor. The vindaloo had just the right amount of heat and richness, while the butter chicken was creamy and full of warm spices. The naan bread was clearly homemade, soft on the inside with a lovely crisp edge and the rice was fragrant and well-cooked.
The only minor drawback was that the portion sizes were a bit smaller than we expected, especially considering the prices, but it didn’t take away from the overall satisfaction of the meal. The garlic naan was delicious, even if slightly smaller than anticipated. The restaurant was spotless and cozy, making it a comfortable place to enjoy a relaxed dinner. I’d definitely recommend Swaad as Limerick’s best restaurant for the great flavors and welcoming atmosphere. For any inquiries, you can reach them at +353 61 317 424.
Turkman Grill
After a long afternoon running errands around Limerick, I met up with my cousin for a much-needed dinner catch-up. We weren’t looking for anything too fancy, just something flavorful and filling. He suggested Turkman Grill as one of the best restaurants in Limerick. It’s located just outside the city centre in Prior’s Land. With a solid 4.2 rating from over 860 Google reviews. Having heard great things about their grilled dishes, I was more than happy to give it a try.
The place has a casual and welcoming vibe. The recent renovation is immediately noticeable. The interior feels fresh, spacious, and brighter, with more seating and a lively atmosphere. It strikes a nice balance between fast food and a family restaurant, making it a great spot for quick meals or relaxed group dinners.
We ordered the Whole Chicken Peri Peri Meal and Special Grill 2 and requested to swap our drinks from Coke to Ayran, which the staff happily accommodated. The food arrived quickly and didn’t disappoint. The chicken was juicy with a smoky flavor, and the naan was soft, warm, and clearly freshly made. The falafel kebab was another highlight, crispy on the outside, perfectly spiced, and served with fresh veggies.
A couple of small things stood out: the samosas felt a bit small for the price and didn’t have the same freshness as the main dishes. Also, the washroom area could use more regular cleaning, which slightly detracted from the overall experience but wasn’t a dealbreaker.
Still, Turkman Grill remains a tasty and affordable spot, ideal for families or anyone craving bold grilled flavors. For inquiries, you can reach them at +353 61 278 654.
Taikichi
Earlier this week, a friend and I were craving something different from our usual dinner spots, so we decided to try Taikichi Japanese Restaurant in Limerick. With a solid 4.5 rating from over 1,300 Google reviews, and plenty of loyal diners, it felt like a promising choice. Located centrally in Prior’s Land, the restaurant has a warm, relaxed vibe, soft lighting, retro Japanese music playing in the background, and an intimate layout perfect for small groups or quiet catch-ups.
We were lucky to get a table without a reservation, though it was clear this place is popular. The menu offered a wide variety from ramen and bento boxes to sushi rolls, tempura, miso soup, and even halal chicken as well as vegan and gluten-free options. We ordered dragon rolls, tonkatsu ramen, gyoza, and yakitori skewers. The ramen and sushi were definite highlights, fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.
Some of the starters, like the yakitori skewers, arrived later than expected and were not as warm as we would have liked. Communication with staff was generally polite and helpful, though occasionally a bit challenging in English.
One small downside was that the seating area could have been a little cleaner, nothing major, but noticeable. Overall, Taikichi has its charm. With its cozy atmosphere, quality food, and diverse menu, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for best comforting Japanese cuisine restaurant in Limerick. For any inquiries, you can reach them at +353 61 313 725.
Esquires Coffee
After finishing the Limerick Great Run with a group of friends, we were hungry and looking for a cozy spot to refuel. Esquires Coffee, located in Prior’s Land, came highly recommended with a strong 4.7 rating from over 900 Google reviews, so we decided to give it a try for a late lunch.
When we arrived, the place was buzzing and many of the popular dishes were already sold out due to the post-race rush. We settled on the chicken chorizo sandwich, which was enormous; no shortage of food here. The combination of tender chicken and melted cheese was delicious, though the sandwich was a touch dry and toasted a bit more than I usually prefer. The side of chips complemented the meal nicely, crispy and well-seasoned.
The seating area was comfortable and inviting, perfect for unwinding after the race. The staff truly made the experience memorable. They were warm, attentive, and efficient despite the busy environment, which added a personal touch to our visit. We skipped coffee that day, but the rich aroma filling the air suggested their coffee must be top-notch.
A few weeks later, I visited again early on a May Bank Holiday morning. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by freshly baked muffins just out of the oven. I couldn’t resist trying the strawberry Nutella and Snickers varieties, both rich and indulgent. The coffee, served in generous portions with lovely latte art, perfectly complemented the sweet treats.
Esquires offers a great blend of quality food, excellent coffee, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s quickly becoming one of my go-to spots among the best restaurants in Limerick. , and I can’t wait to explore more of their menu. For inquiries, you can reach them at +353 61 413 1234.
Final Words about Restaurants in Limerick
Limerick’s dining scene is like a well-kept secret waiting to be uncovered, bite by bite. Each place on this list isn’t just about food, it’s about atmosphere, stories, and moments that stick with you long after the meal ends.
I’ve been out there tasting, chatting, and soaking up the local flavour so you can skip the guesswork. So next time hunger strikes in Limerick, you’ve got a trusted shortlist to explore and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
If you’re heading to the capital, you might also enjoy my guide to the Best Affordable Restaurants in Dublin for Tasty, Cheap Eats! for wallet-friendly bites without sacrificing flavour.