The Mad Monk by Quinlans in Killarney

This review is based on my experience of the place, service and food served. It was fully booked so we had to sit outside so the atmosphere of the restaurant is not judged here. The waitress must have been relatively new. She forgot the main course for two people in the party and I never got the spoon I asked for. I had oysters as a starter and halibut as a main course. The oysters were super fresh and the halibut was amazing and it was a really big portion too, really really good!

My husband and I were visiting Killarney from Boston, and saw the Mad Monk and their fabulous menu while walking around the city. Could not get a reservation for our first night, but got one for the second night. Our waiter Sean was wonderful. We split the local oysters and each had the sea bass with the squid ink risotto. This was an outstanding dish. We eat a lot of fish at home, and this was a dish to remember. The table next to us also ordered it on our recommendation. We had cocktails, wine with dinner. The entree and a lovely side salad. If you are a fish/ seafood lover, make sure to eat at the Mad Monk while in Killarney!

Ordered the scallops entree (5 in a serving) and crab claw mains (12 small claws). Both were delicious. Partner ordered the paella, which was a little mushy, quite a small serving, but the seafood in it was nice. Kids enjoyed the chicken goujons and squid and chips, although not used to eating real squid but we were happy with the quality. Service was lovely. Was busy so we were glad we made a booking.

A lovely seafood restaurant with a great selection of fish and seafood, the chowder was a favourite for sure

We had Scallops for starter; very fresh and tender. Mmmmmm Sea bass fillets on squid ink risotto with baby prawns; very good. Had a pint of Heineken to wash it down, then a walk to burn off some of the calories. A good night!

Everything was amazing! The servers were so friendly and welcoming. We had fresh Valentia oysters that tasted like it’s straight from the ocean. My sea bass with risotto was one of my favorite fish of all time. Highly recommend!

Excellent food We were sitting outside on a good day and it was lovely watching World go by with good food/wine

We had a wonderful time on the terrace at this restaurant in early August 2026. The food was excellent. The service was very pleasant.

Wonderful restaurant and top-notch service

I was there with my family for two consecutive evenings for the food and the kindness and friendliness of the staff. Highly recommended.