
The Mad Monk by Quinlans
A premier Killarney seafood destination celebrated for its daily-delivered fresh catches and vibrant, modern atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

The Mad Monk by Quinlans

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier Killarney seafood destination celebrated for its daily-delivered fresh catches and vibrant, modern atmosphere.
"Exceptional food and service, with some of the best seafood we've had in Ireland!"
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure your table.
Weekday Visits Recommended
Consider visiting on weekdays for an easier time getting a table, as it's a popular spot.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
$$$
Phone
+353 64 662 3597
Address
21-22 Plunkett St, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 Y796, Ireland
Website
seafoodbar.ie/madmonk/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning Fresh Seafood
Sourced directly from Quinlan's boats and local suppliers, enjoy the freshest lobster, crab, scallops, and more.

Seafood Chowder Perfection
A must-try dish, this chowder is packed with seafood and is considered among the best in Ireland.

Unique Monkfish Scampi
Experience a unique twist on a classic with scampi prepared using delicate monkfish.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure your table.
Weekday Visits Recommended
Consider visiting on weekdays for an easier time getting a table, as it's a popular spot.
Dietary Options Available
Gluten-free options are available upon request for most dishes.
Chowder Preferences
While many love the chowder, be aware that creaminess can vary to personal preference.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to secure your table.
Weekday Visits Recommended
Consider visiting on weekdays for an easier time getting a table, as it's a popular spot.
Dietary Options Available
Gluten-free options are available upon request for most dishes.
Chowder Preferences
While many love the chowder, be aware that creaminess can vary to personal preference.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Mad Monk is lauded for its incredibly fresh seafood, with many highlighting the exceptional quality of dishes like oysters, scallops, and fish chowder. Reviewers praise the friendly and attentive service, modern decor, and vibrant atmosphere. While prices are noted as being on the higher side, most feel the quality and experience justify the cost, making it a memorable dining destination in Killarney.
"My boyfriend and I visited The Mad Monk during our stay in Killarney. It was a lovely dinner.
For starters, we shared the seared scallops. The sauce was creamy and flavorful, and the scallops were well caramelized.
For our mains, I got the prawns. They were pretty fresh but a bit oily to me. My boyfriend ordered the salmon, which was perfectly cooked. The sides were all delicious—the potato beneath the salmon had a nice sweetness with a hint of herbs.
For dessert, we had the warm crumble of the day, which was a raspberry crumble with vanilla ice cream. We loved it! It was tangy and flavorful, with just the right amount of sweetness.
Our server for the night was also very nice and friendly. Overall, we really enjoyed our meal and highly recommend."
Estelle Jiang
"Really good food. We ordered salmon with mash and the dish with hake, fish were really fresh and well seasoned. Staff were attentive and checked on us a few times. Prices were a bit on the higher side but I’d say it’s around the same price as other restaurants in the area."
Anna Rivera
"Really awesome spot in downtown Killarney. We were able to get a table outside for 2 with no reservation. The wait staff was very friendly.
Food was great. I got a dish with sea bass and squid ink risotto that was delicious.
It was nice sitting outside because we could here the music from the pub across the street and it's a great spot for people watching.
Lots of people getting tipsy drinking out in the street."
Charlie Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dining, as the restaurant is very popular.
The seafood chowder is a standout dish, and many guests rave about the freshness of the oysters, scallops, and various fish preparations.
Yes, all dishes can be pan-fried upon request, and gluten-free options are available for nearly all dishes.
The restaurant has a modern and slick interior with a great ambiance, making it suitable for both groups and couples.
While specializing in seafood, the menu does offer some dishes that can be adapted or are inherently vegetarian, such as the squash.
Yes, you can enjoy local Killarney beer on draught, which pairs well with the fresh seafood.
Mentioned in
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Best Dinner Places to Eat in Killarney
The Mad Monk by Quinlans is located on Plunkett Street in the heart of Killarney. This is a restaurant style venue with a great reputation for all things fresh that is delivered daily direct from their boats or from local butchers. They offer a wide range of fresh fish meals, from native Lobster, Salmon, Crab, Scallops, Prawns, Hake, Lemon Sole, Plaice, Haddock, Wild Mussels and Ray Wing and daily specials.
→ Best Food in Killarney: Irresistible Bites Await (2025)
Nestled in the heart of Killarney, The Mad Monk by Quinlans is a culinary treasure that simply must be shared. From the moment I stepped through its welcoming doors, I was enveloped in an atmosphere that promised an unforgettable dining experience. With over 600 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.6-star rating on Google, my expectations were sky-high, yet this charming eatery managed to surpass them all.
Dine: A Guide For Where To Eat In Killarney
Since its establishment in 2019, The Mad Monk has quickly gained popularity as a go-to destination in Killarney for seafood enthusiasts. With a strong commitment to providing the freshest seafood available, the quality of their meals is truly unmatched. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing its seafood directly from Quinlan’s Seafood, ensuring that every dish served is of the highest standard.
8 Best Restaurants in Killarney (Based On Many Visits)
There’s no shortage of great seafood restaurants in Killarney, but few in my eyes contend with the Mad Monk. The Mad Monk boasts a slick interior, great ambience and plenty of seating for groups and couples alike. Starter-wise, the Dingle Bay Wild Squid with sweet chilli jam and the seared Aran Islands scallops with cauliflower puree and crispy Parma ham both pack a punch.
Visiting Killarney: A Guide [2024]
Website: https://www.kerryfish.com/seafoodbar/the-mad-monk/Address: 21 Plunkett St, Killarney, Co. KerryPhone: +353 64 662 3597Operating Hours: Open Daily – 1 PM to 10 PM. The Mad Monk in Killarney is the perfect place for a seafood feast, offering a cozy atmosphere, modern design, and enough space for any occasion, all while being run by a crazy but talented master chef.
Best Restaurants in Killarney, Ireland
Stags, it’s time to dive into a seafood feast that’s as magnificent as your upcoming wedding. The Mad Monk by Quinlans is a haven for fresh, locally-sourced delights that will make your taste buds dance. From lobster bisque to pan-fried scallops, you’ll feel like kings as you indulge in the heart of a restored Georgian townhouse.
7 Best Restaurants in Killarney, Ireland
Ireland is known for its great seafood, and few spots compare to The Mad Monk. With a modern interior and vibrant ambience, this Killarney restaurant is perfect for those seeking out the freshest the ocean can offer; this was truly one of the best seafood restaurants. Looking for something a little more casual?
Best Places To Eat In Killarney
They specialise in freshly cooked dishes, including their famous fish & chips and seafood platters. They source seafood directly from the local area. It is perfect for seafood lovers who want a top fish restaurant Killarney has to offer.
Restaurants in Killarney
Our favourite Killarney fish restaurant – an offshoot of the Quinlan’s Fish empire which also has the more casual Quinlan’s restaurants in Killarney. Killorglin and Kenmare. Tel: +353 64 662 3597Web: www.kerryfish.com
Top Activities for a Memorable Irish Adventure
As I mentioned in the section above, The Lake Room restaurant at the Aghadoe Heights Hotel has some really special views and an absolutely fantastic food menu, if you’re looking for somewhere to have a special dinner.
35 Inspiring & Fun Things to do in Killarney Ireland
Killarney is a town located in County Kerry, in the southwestern part of Ireland. It is nestled on the northeastern shore of Lough Leane and surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Killarney National Park.
Gluten Free Options: THE Best in Killarney
76 restaurant menus in Ireland, (the ranking and the list of restaurants are based on the number of recommendations received from users in the last month, currently updated to December 2024)
A-Z Bars & Restaurants in Killarney
Part of the Quinlan’s family, The Mad Monk serves up freshly caught local fish that are just amazing on the pallet. A great wine list is available to pair with your meal.
A-Z Restaurants In Killarney
The Mad Monk, Plunkett Street – The dishes are so fabulous ordering can be a struggle!. Stylish décor, laid-back vibe and lovely staff hit the high notes every time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit