Kerry continues to establish itself as a must-visit destination for food lovers in Ireland, with three of its hospitality venues earning top awards at the Good Food Ireland® Awards 2025, held at The K Club, Co. Kildare — a prestigious event celebrating excellence in Irish food and hospitality.

 

Pub Restaurant of the Year Award: Bianconi Inn, Killorglin

The Bianconi Inn in Killorglin was crowned Pub Restaurant of the Year, showcasing the very best of traditional Irish pub dining. Known for its locally sourced ingredients, warm atmosphere, and outstanding menu, the Bianconi Inn has long been a favourite with both locals and visitors. Visiting the Bianconi Inn offers a true taste of Kerry’s culinary heritage and local food culture.

Owner Hazel Boyle said:

“We honestly didn’t expect to hear our name called, especially given the other brilliant finalists in the category.It means a lot to us as it’s a reflection of the people behind The Bianconi, our fantastic team, our customers who’ve supported us for years, and the great food tradition that’s part of Kerry and Killorglin. We just try to do things the right way: good food, local ingredients, and a warm welcome.“

Head Chef Lukasz Wacnik added:

“It was a lovely shock to win. There’s so much great food across Ireland now, and to be recognised among them is really special. We’re lucky in Kerry that there’s incredible produce all around us, and a real pride in local food. This award is for everyone who works hard in the kitchen and front of house every day.”

The Bianconi Inn has long been woven into the fabric of Killorglin, and it continues to play a central role in the town’s vibrant food culture, further elevating Killorglin’s reputation as a standout culinary destination.

4-Star Hotel of the Year Award: Great Southern Killarney

Great Southern Killarney has been awarded Best 4-Star Hotel at the Good Food Ireland® Awards 2025 — a prestigious accolade highlighting excellence in Irish hospitality.

This year’s award shines a spotlight on the hotel’s new brasserie restaurant, Arbour, an elegant dining space offering brasserie classics and seasonal dishes crafted from the finest local ingredients. Led by Director of Culinary, Heiko Riebandt, and Executive Head Chef, Gavin Nolan, the Arbour team attended the ceremony to accept the award. Great Southern Killarney continues to set the standard for refined hotel dining in the region.

General Manager Jamie Power shared his pride in the achievement:

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition. It’s a true testament to the dedication, creativity, and passion of our entire team — from the kitchen to the front of house — who work tirelessly to deliver an exceptional experience for every guest. This award celebrates not only our food but also our deep-rooted commitment to Irish hospitality and local produce. Here’s to continuing to champion local produce, exceptional dining, and genuine Irish hospitality!”

Food Lovers’ Choice Award: Ard na Sidhe Country House

Nestled on the shores of Caragh Lake, Ard na Sidhe Country House received the Food Lovers’ Choice Award – Wild Atlantic Way, honouring its exceptional seasonal cuisine and breathtaking setting. Guests enjoy thoughtfully crafted dishes inspired by the surrounding landscape, making it a serene retreat for food lovers exploring Kerry.

This award acknowledges the property's devotion to provenance, tranquillity, and a guest experience that feels both intimate and deeply rooted in nature.

Celebrating Local Produce and Sustainability in Kerry

The Good Food Ireland Awards celebrate excellence in Irish food, drink, and hospitality, with winners selected by an independent panel of Irish and international food experts. The awards focus on authenticity, provenance, sustainability, and the overall guest experience. This year’s theme, “Rooted in Taste, Backed by Trust,” highlights Ireland’s commitment to local ingredients and responsible sourcing.

Kerry’s wins demonstrate that the county is a top culinary destination in Ireland, offering everything from traditional pub dishes to luxury dining experiences, all with a focus on quality, local produce, and sustainability.

Plan Your Foodie Trip to Kerry

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a tourist exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, or a local looking for the best dining experiences in Kerry, these award-winning venues are a must-visit. Discover the flavours, hospitality, and culinary traditions that make Kerry a top food destination in Ireland.