Discover the Best Food and Drink Destinations in Ireland (for Groups & Families)

Food is one of the most powerful ways to connect with culture — and what better way to experience it than with the people you love? Whether you’re a group of friends looking for an unforgettable getaway or a family eager to explore the tastes of Ireland, our Food and Wine (or Beer) Tours offer the perfect mix of flavour, fun, and local charm.

Ireland’s culinary scene has come alive in recent years, blending tradition with innovation. From farm-to-table meals in rustic country inns to behind-the-scenes brewery tours and coastal seafood feasts, every stop is a chance to savour something new — together. Our expertly crafted itineraries offer comfort, local insights, and plenty of craic, leaving you with full hearts and full bellies.

Here are our top picks for Ireland’s best destinations for group food and drink adventures:

1. Dublin – A Culinary Capital

Ireland’s buzzing capital is a food lover’s playground. Start your group journey at the iconic Guinness Storehouse, where you’ll learn how to pour the perfect pint, then dive into Dublin’s exciting food scene—from Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy food trucks.

Must-do experiences:

  • Guinness Storehouse tour and tasting
  • Irish whiskey masterclass at Teeling or Jameson
  • Street food tours around Temple Bar
  • Dinner at historic pubs with live music

Best for: Foodies, beer lovers, city explorers

2. Kinsale – Ireland’s Gourmet Capital

This charming seaside town in County Cork is a must for anyone who appreciates fine food and local produce. Known as Ireland’s “Gourmet Capital,” Kinsale offers picturesque harbour views, fresh seafood, and some of the country’s best restaurants.

Must-do experiences:

  • Seafood feast at a waterfront bistro
  • Culinary walking tour with local tastings
  • Wine and cheese pairing in artisan shops
  • Cooking class with an Irish chef

Best for: Wine lovers, seafood fans, romantic groups

3. Galway – Where Music Meets the Menu

Galway is Ireland’s festival city, and its food scene is just as lively. Wander through the weekend market, grab artisanal treats, and enjoy the best of West Coast fare—from oysters to hearty stews. It’s the perfect spot for groups looking for great food and an even better atmosphere.

Must-do experiences:

  • Galway Market food crawl
  • Oysters and Guinness at a local pub
  • Visit to a Connemara smokehouse
  • Traditional Irish music night with dinner

Best for: Music lovers, culture seekers, laid-back foodies

4. Dingle – For Seafood and Scenery

Set along the Wild Atlantic Way, Dingle offers dramatic views and a warm welcome. Known for its fresh seafood, artisan shops, and cozy pubs, it’s the ideal destination for families or friends who want a relaxed yet flavourful escape.

Must-do experiences:

  • Fresh catch at Dingle Bay
  • Local gin or whiskey tasting
  • Tour of a traditional creamery or cheese farm
  • Scone baking class in a country cottage

Best for: Coastal adventurers, seafood fans, slow travelers

5. Kilkenny – Medieval Flavours and Modern Twists

Step into a medieval town that knows how to serve up modern delights. Kilkenny’s food scene is bursting with creativity—from farm-to-fork experiences to craft beer tastings. Plus, there’s no shortage of medieval charm for sightseeing in between meals.

Must-do experiences:

  • Tour and tasting at Smithwick’s Brewery
  • Chocolate-making demo and tasting
  • Casual gourmet dining in historic inns
  • Artisan food shops in the Medieval Mile

Best for: Craft beer fans, history buffs, mixed-age groups

6. The Wild Atlantic Way – Scenic Sips and Bites

Stretching over 2,500 km, the Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s ultimate road trip—and a dream for food-loving travelers. Along the way, you’ll find hidden coastal gems offering lobster, chowder, and seaweed-inspired dishes, all with unforgettable ocean views.

Must-do experiences:

  • Burren food trail in County Clare
  • Seaweed foraging and tasting experience
  • Stop at artisanal smokehouses
  • Pop-up festivals and farmer’s markets

Best for: Road-tripping families, adventurous eaters, nature lovers

7. Cork City – Where Traditional Meets Trendy

From the legendary English Market to trendy tapas-style restaurants, Cork blends Irish food heritage with a modern twist. It’s a vibrant city where families and friend groups can explore, taste, and toast to a perfect getaway.

Must-do experiences:

  • English Market food tour
  • Blarney Castle picnic with local goodies
  • Whiskey tasting at Midleton Distillery
  • Foodie-themed walking tour of the city

Best for: Food explorers, shopping lovers, cultural adventurers

8. Boyne Valley – Ireland’s Ancient Flavours

Explore one of Ireland’s oldest regions and taste your way through centuries of culinary tradition. The Boyne Valley is home to lush farms, artisan producers, and craft breweries—and perfect for groups seeking a rural escape full of history and flavour.

Must-do experiences:

  • Farm-to-table lunch on an organic farm
  • Tour and tasting at a local cidery or brewery
  • Irish soda bread baking class
  • Heritage trail with food pairings

Best for: Families, rural travelers, history and food fans

Final Thoughts:

Ireland is so much more than potatoes and pints (though you’ll get the best of those too). It’s a place where flavour meets folklore, and where groups of all kinds—families, friends, foodies—can gather around a table and create memories that linger long after the last toast.

So grab your group, bring your appetite, and discover Ireland through its food and drink. Because every bite tells a story—and in Ireland, those stories are rich, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

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