Mario's Diner in Kilkenny

06/06/2026: I chose this upstairs restaurant for a late lunch, and was really glad I did! The barn-like interior, with its timbered ceiling and whitewashed walls, recalled this building's former use as stables and grain store for the castle. It was spacious and clean, with comfortable chairs. The restaurant is self-service, and there was a decent choice of hot meals as well as a cold counter with quiches, jumbo sausage rolls, smoked salmon and various salads. I chose the cold poached salmon with green salad in a balsamic dressing, coleslaw, and grated carrot with raisins. The salmon was the best I'd eaten for a long time, chunky, moist and sprinkled with herbs, and the salads were very fresh and flavourful. The young man who served me at the counter was both charming and helpful. Would have liked to try one of the desserts but I was much too full! My lunch was not cheap but what you would expect to pay for a meal of this quality. Would heartily recommend!

04/05/2026: I had such a wonderful experience at the Kilkenny Design Centre Café, and I felt compelled to share it. From the moment we arrived, everything was warm and welcoming, but what truly made our visit stand out was a staff member named Kate. Kate went above and beyond to make sure my family and I were comfortable and well looked after. She was incredibly friendly, attentive, and genuinely seemed to love what she does—it really shows in how she interacts with customers. She also had great knowledge of the coffee menu and offered helpful recommendations that we all enjoyed. It’s rare to come across service that leaves such a lasting impression, but Kate absolutely did that for us. She made our visit feel special, and we’ll definitely be returning again!!! Highly recommend this café, not just for the lovely setting and food, but for the exceptional staff.