Celebrating Kilkenny’s Award‑Winning Food & Drink Scene

Kilkenny’s food and drink scene continues to shine, with local restaurants, cafés, pubs and producers recognised at the 2026 Restaurant Association Awards. From Michelin‑starred dining to championing sustainability and local produce, these winners represent the best of what Kilkenny has to offer.

Here’s a look at this year’s award‑winning businesses and individuals across the county.

Overall (Best Restaurant)

Campagne, Kilkenny
A Michelin‑starred restaurant led by Garrett Byrne, offering elegant, seasonal, French‑inspired modern cuisine in a relaxed and understated setting beneath the old railway arches.

Café

Knockdrinna Café, Stonyford
An artisan farmhouse café in Stonyford known for homemade food, fresh bakes and a warm welcome, winning Best Café in Kilkenny for the second year in a row.

Casual Dining

Arán Artisan Bakery & Bistro, Kilkenny
A Barrack Street favourite celebrated for its award‑winning sourdough, all‑day brunch and seasonal menus rooted in quality, local ingredients.

Chef

John Kelly – Lady Helen Restaurant, Mount Juliet Estate
Executive Head Chef at the Michelin‑starred Lady Helen, recognised for refined, flavour‑driven cuisine inspired by estate‑grown and local produce.

Contemporary Irish Cuisine

Dizzy Goat Restaurant, Owning
A farm‑to‑fork restaurant championing organic, sustainable produce sourced from its own farm and local suppliers, served in a cosy countryside setting.

Customer Service

Tābú, Thomastown
A vibrant tapas restaurant praised for friendly, attentive service alongside fresh, flavour‑packed sharing plates.

Employee Excellence Award

Agnieszka Mokrzycka – Café La Coco, Kilkenny
Recognised for her outstanding dedication, positive attitude and commitment to delivering exceptional customer experience.

Gastro Pub

Left Bank, Kilkenny
A lively city‑centre gastro pub blending quality food, a buzzing atmosphere and a historic setting on The Parade.

Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant

Lady Helen Restaurant, Mount Juliet Estate
Michelin‑starred dining in a Georgian manor house, offering elegant tasting menus with a strong focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Innovator of the Year

Arán Artisan Bakery & Bistro, Kilkenny
Awarded for its creative approach to artisan baking, dining and showcasing local produce through thoughtful, modern menus.

Local Food Hero

Sean Ring – Ring’s Farm, Castlecomer
An organic and free‑range poultry producer recognised for sustainable farming practices and supplying high‑quality chicken nationwide.

Newcomer

Wildflower Tearooms, Thomastown
A peaceful tearoom at Kilfane House offering relaxed brunch, freshly baked treats and a tranquil garden setting.

Pub of the Year

The Dylan Whisky Bar, Kilkenny
A characterful whiskey bar on John Street Lower, known for its extensive whiskey collection and warm, knowledgeable hospitality.

Restaurant Manager

Paul Byrne – Zuni Restaurant & Boutique Hotel, Kilkenny
Honoured for outstanding leadership and delivering consistently high‑quality guest experiences in this central Kilkenny venue.

Sustainable Practices

Statham’s by Pembroke Kilkenny
Recognised for its commitment to sustainability through responsible sourcing, waste reduction and environmentally conscious operations.

Use of Social Media

Arán Artisan Bakery & Bistro, Kilkenny
Highlighted for engaging social media content that celebrates daily bakes, seasonal menus and the local food community.

Wine Experience

Ristorante Rinuccini, Kilkenny
A family‑run Italian restaurant opposite Kilkenny Castle, renowned for its expertly curated wine list and thoughtful pairings.

World Cuisine

Tābú, Thomastown
Celebrated for bringing vibrant global flavours to Kilkenny through creative, approachable tapas‑style dishes.

HERE are the 2026 Restaurant Association Awards winners for county KILKENNY