Finding the best Killarney Coffee Shops
Heading for a coffee is one of the nicest little treats in life, and in Killarney it may be a little different to other areas you have visited before. Since 2023, under the coffee cup project, Killarney as a town have banned the use of single use coffee cups. More than 45 independent coffee shops and hotels have signed up to this cause.
What’s more, this initiative will save more than one million single use cups going to waste each year. So please bear this in mind when queuing for your coffee. Generally, you have three options.
1. You bring your own reusable cup
2. Have your coffee sitting in the cafe / lobby and relax
3. pay a €2 deposit for a reusable cup which you can return to any coffee shop in Killarney.
2Go Cups are an idea that was brought to life by Kerry county council. An innovative solution to tackle this problem, and they’re now featured in 30% of cafes in Ireland.
Learn more about the scheme!
Now onto the real deal
Now you know what to bring with your for a coffee, let’s figure out where to go. Almost every cafe is a member of the coffee cup project.
Luna coffee shop
In this cozy coffee shop on Brewery Lane, you’re in for a real treat. Offering speciality coffees along with house made sweet treats. This is the perfect spot for watching the world pass by as it is open daily from 8am – 6pm.
Opt to sit outdoors and enjoy an iced coffee. Pick a seat to soak in the welcoming atmosphere indoors on the colder days! Their cinnamon buns are one of the greatest homemade treats in Killarney. Once you have one you’ll be back for another tomorrow!
Luna Coffee has been a favourite with the locals since it opened in 2022. However, one thing the tourists love is the glasses of natural wine with the lunchtime sandwiches in this cozy spot! One thing we all agree on is the helpful staff are a pleasure to deal with.
KP3 coffee House
A recent opening that serves delicious coffee has quickly become one of our favourites. Their range of extravagant treats and artisan sandwiches have this down as a must visit spot. There is a lovely atmosphere with large windows allowing the outside world to soak into the room.
You can pick up on the vibrant atmosphere in the outdoor seating. This area has a covering that is retractable so you get to make the most of the sun in Killarney.
KP3 Coffee House opens Monday to Saturday from 8am – 5pm. On Sunday, they operate between 9-4 instead.
The Racecourse Cafe
You may not think that a horse racing course is a brilliant location for a coffee shop in Killarney. We think you’re wrong. The racecourse cafe is one of the best coffees in town. Situated in a perfect location of green fields, the wild life surrounds you.
Their lunch menu is packed with vegetarian options, along with classic favourites too. If Acai bowls are your thing then this is the place to be. Freshly made acai is topped with berries, granola and coconut for a refreshing snack in an ideal spot.
The racecourse cafe has limited seating on picnic benches. However, on a warm day there’s nothing better than bringing a picnic blanket and enjoying the amazing food and barista coffee.
It’s worth checking the Race Couse Cafe’s Instagram to find their opening times.
Ross castle Coffee Shop
When visiting Killarney National Park and onto Ross Castle, it’s nice to slow down and grab a quick bite. Coffee lovers will be familiar with the fabulous coffee on offer in the Ross Castle Garden Cafe.
Paired with some light bites, a stop here for refuelling is a great idea on a day trip around Killarney National Park. Their coffee shack in this historic site makes for an amazing back drop as you enjoy a cup of coffee.
Their opening hours have recently updated, now on Monday–Friday: 9:30 AM–5:00 PM and then on Saturday–Sunday: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM.
Lilly’s Coffee Dock
Situated in Hotel Killarney, Lilly’s Coffee Dock is the newest addition to our hotel. With authentic touches to bring our place to life. Lilly’s serves excellent coffee in every cup, and offers fantastic food options for light bites.
Lilly’s has a range of fresh sandwiches and freshly baked pastries. The helpful staff on the dock are always on hand to help you
For a more substantial offering, you can dine in the Sloe Berry Bar. This cozy spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner has a warm atmosphere and is perfect for starting off your trip.
The Wrap Up
Killarney’s coffee shop scene has really changed over the last five years. While there was always places to grab an ice cream or a bite to eat. There hasn’t been a speciality coffee scene like there is today.
Thanks to the Coffee Cup Project, there is a lot less waste being generated in line with sustainability goals of the town.
We haven’t covered everywhere to get a coffee in town, but we have certainly covered the must visit spots serving delicious coffee and fantastic food.