6 Places Where You’ll Find the Best Coffee in Kilkenny

Ah, Kilkenny – a city known for its medieval charm, vibrant culture, and increasingly, its thriving coffee scene. Sure, we’ve always loved our tea, but coffee has captured our hearts in recent years, with brilliant cafés popping up around every corner of our historic streets.

Whether you’re a local looking for your new coffee place or a visitor needing that perfect morning cuppa before exploring the castle, this guide is your ticket to the finest brews in the Marble City. From hidden gems tucked away in centuries-old lanes to modern coffee spots serving artisan roasts, Kilkenny’s coffee culture has something for everyone.

These six cafés aren’t just serving coffee – they’re creating experiences. Each spot brings its own unique character to your cup, with passionate baristas who know their stuff and welcoming atmospheres that’ll have you settling in for “just one more cup.”

Best Coffee Shops in Kilkenny

1. Fragola Café

Google Rating: 4.9

Located on 3 William Street, Fragola Café stands out as one of Kilkenny’s best coffee shops. This Polish-owned cafe offers a cozy charm with exceptional food and coffee. The small, welcoming space will invite you to relax while enjoying their impressive menu of specialty coffees.

Their Celtic sea salt latte is something that you have to try. You can order it with their legendary pomegranate bacon French toast. The café takes pride in offering many flavored latte options, satisfying even the most discerning coffee lovers. Beyond coffee, their selection of teas and pastries impresses locals and tourists alike.

What truly sets Fragola café apart is their attention to detail and friendly service. Family owned and operated, the café tells a story through its unique atmosphere and carefully crafted menu.

While it’s slightly pricier than other coffee places in Kilkenny, the quality justifies every euro spent. The super friendly staff adds to the experience, making each visit memorable.

2. Cafe La Coco

Google Rating: 4.7

Since opening its doors in November 2010, Cafe La Coco has earned its reputation as Kilkenny’s number 1 wholefood café. Located at 4 Lower Patrick Street, this small yet perfectly formed independent cafe is one of those places that you have to visit if you are on the quest for a nice cup of coffee.

The founders created this space with a simple mission: to build the kind of place they themselves would want to visit for breakfast, lunch, or just coffee and cake. Their vision has clearly resonated with customers. Despite its tiny interior with just a handful of tables (plus a couple on the outdoor patio), the café delivers an outstanding experience.

Locals rave about their amazing sandwiches and fantastic coffee. The menu thoughtfully includes gluten-free options, including bread alternatives. Their pastries receive consistent praise, while specialties like their açaí bowl showcase their commitment to wholesome, delicious food. The pleasant ambiance and award-winning service make it easy to understand why Cafe La Coco has become a Kilkenny favorite.

3. Low Lane

Google Rating: 4.8

At 45 St Kieran’s Street, Low Lane has quickly established itself as one of the best coffee places in Kilkenny. This relatively new coffee shop, opened in July 2022, brings serious coffee credentials to the historic streets of Kilkenny.

Founded by two locals Robyn and Mark Butler, Low Lane benefits from the pair’s extensive experience working with coffee industry leaders like 3fe and Storyboard. When the pandemic prompted a return to their hometown, they brought their expertise with them, creating a space that coffee lovers now consider a must-visit place.

Low Lane serves 3fe coffee alongside an appealing all-day breakfast and lunch menu. Their sweet treats provide the perfect accompaniment to expertly prepared hot coffee. Despite being one of the newer establishments on Kilkenny’s coffee scene, Low Lane has generated significant buzz among both locals and visitors. Locals particularly appreciate the founders’ dedication to quality and craftsmanship in every coffee cup they serve.

4. The Yard Café

Google Rating: 4.5

Located on 27 St Kieran’s Street, The Yard Café has become a beloved coffee spot for both locals and visitors in Kilkenny. This cozy coffee place may be small in size, but it delivers big on flavor and atmosphere. The café specializes in freshly made quiches and toasted sandwiches that make for a perfect lunch option when exploring the city.

What sets The Yard apart is their commitment to inclusive dining. Vegans will appreciate their thoughtful menu options, including plant-based burgers, yummy salads, and homemade banana bread. You can have their amazing coffee in almond or soy milk if you are lactose intolerant.

Also, don’t miss their fruit scones—packed with plump fruit and served with jam and cream, they’re the perfect afternoon treat. For something more indulgent, the Terry’s chocolate orange cheesecake offers a heavenly combination of creamy texture and buttery crumb base that simply melts in your mouth.

Dog owners will appreciate the pet-friendly outdoor seating area, making it a great stop after walking through Kilkenny’s historic streets. The staff is known for their friendly and attentive service.

5. Arán Artisan Bakery & Bistro

Google Rating: 4.7

Moving just a short walk away to 8 Barrack Street, you’ll find Arán Artisan Bakery & Bistro, an award-winning food place that has transformed Kilkenny’s food scene. This charming spot offers all-day brunch, private evening dining options, and some of the best sourdough bread you’ll find in Ireland.

What makes Arán special is their dedication to seasonal ingredients, with a menu that evolves throughout the year to showcase the best local produce. Their coffee is superb—try the oat cappuccino for a silky, rich experience that perfectly complements their baked goods.

The place has a charming décor that creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests rave about specialties like the Korean chicken wrap with its perfect crunch and balanced flavors, or the inventively named “Not Turkish Eggs” that has become a local favorite.

Despite its popularity and the constant buzz of activity, service remains quick and friendly. The reasonable prices and pet-friendly policy add to its appeal. With convenient parking nearby and a dining room consistently filled with locals (always the best endorsement), Arán represents the best of Kilkenny’s thriving food and coffee culture.

6. Louie’s Café

Google Rating: 4.6

Completing our journey through Kilkenny’s best coffee shops brings us to Louie’s Café on 3 Patrick Street. This cafe offers the versatility to start your morning with a perfectly brewed coffee or end your evening with a glass of fine wine.

Louie’s has earned its reputation through exceptional attention to detail. Their breakfast options and coffee menu receive consistent praise, but their tapas menu truly showcases the kitchen’s creativity. This makes it an ideal spot for different dining experiences throughout the day.

Many visitors discover this gem when exploring nearby Kilkenny Castle, as it’s conveniently located just a short stroll away. The smoked salmon open sandwich comes highly recommended—a simple dish elevated by quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.

The service strikes that perfect balance between casual friendliness and professional efficiency. The interior design creates an inviting ambiance with a contemporary vibe that appeals to various tastes and occasions.

Operating on a first-come, first-served basis during daytime hours, Louie’s doesn’t take reservations for breakfast or lunch. This policy reflects its popularity, so timing your visit strategically might be necessary to secure a table at this standout Kilkenny café.