5 Great Food Spaces to Enjoy in Cork
Marina Market
A treat for the senses, Marina Market is Cork’s largest indoor food market with 35+ vendors. Situated on Centre Park Road, the former disused warehouse was transformed into a buzzing foodie haven in 2020 and it was immediately embraced by locals looking to try new cuisines and support new businesses. It quickly became an attraction to visitors from further afield and remains one of Cork’s most popular food spots with dishes from all over the world being served up 7 days a week.
The English Market
The English Market has been a Cork institution since 1788, having originally been launched as a municipal market in the then new commercial city. Housed in a beautiful Victorian building, it has become one of Europe’s most famous food markets, a place where local traders buy and sell fresh seafood, meats, vegetables, cheeses, breads and a variety of speciality foods. With several coffee shops and restaurants on site, it’s a fantastic place to take in the action while enjoying some local foods.
Ichigo Ichie
Ichigo Ichie has been one of Ireland’s most talked about restaurants since 2019 when it received a coveted star from the Michelin guide. Set in a moody, dark space, diners can take a seat at the counter and watch owner and head chef Takashi Miyazaki create colourful dishes, using the best Irish ingredients balanced with traditional Japanese cooking techniques. There’s new plans ahead for 2024 as the restaurant is set to transform to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, allowing for a more casual dining experience and there’s no doubt it will remain as popular as ever.
Good Day Deli
Set in the beautiful grounds of Nano Nagle Gardens, Good Day Deli is a sustainable café surrounded by nature overlooking Cork City. The open space invites the surrounding greenery inside through a large glass façade. The Good Day Deli menu compliments the environment with a South Pacific influenced vegetarian and vegan offering, alongside a range of natural wines. A biophilic oasis in the heart of Cork City, locals flock to Good Day Deli for breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch while enjoying being encompassed by nature.
Sophies
Set atop The Dean Hotel, Sophie’s an open, loft like restaurant and bar with a surrounding wall of glass that’s captures panoramic views of Cork City. Just around the corner from Glandore Business Centre on Lapp Quay, it’s the perfect spot any time of the day. Enjoy a laidback sunrise coffee or breakfast, a delicious lunch on the outdoor terrace with unspoiled views of the River Lee or book a booth for dinner and cocktails with a backdrop of the Victorian Quarter at sunset. A cool space that’s a hit with locals and an ideal space for entertaining clients and team members.