Kinsale may have reclaimed its spot as the coolest place in Ireland to spend a weekend.
Somewhat shadowed in recent years by Westport, Kinsale has come roaring back to life in recent months, with the addition of Saint Francis Provisions and a return of the Kinsale 7s.
Established by proprietor Barbara Nealon just before the pandemic, the intimate restaurant is steeped in San Francisco influence where Barbara lived for ten years ahead of making Kinsale her home.
The business has just been honoured by the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand distinction. The only restaurant in the Republic of Ireland to get the nod.
The cosy space only seats 13 people, and with this news is sure to fill up quickly.
The Michelin Guide to Great Britain and Ireland 2023 praised Saint Francis Provision for their “punchy, daily changing Mediterranean small plates, accompanied by all-natural wines.”
The team running the restaurant is head chef Rebeca Recarey Sanchez, Emily Hartless, who looks after the front of the house alongside Barbara Nealon.
Reacting to the news on Instagram Barbara said “Literally NO WORDS (long emotional post to follow when we calm down).’’
As if this wasn’t a good enough reason to visit Kinsale, the long-awaited return of the Kinsale Rugby 7s tournament returns next month.
Marking its 35th anniversary this year, the tournament has become a staple weekend for rugby fans, from those who are serious about competing to those just looking for a bit of fun.
The event takes place in Kinsale over the May Bank Holiday weekend with over 5,000 visitors expected to arrive in the town.
For rugby fans, foodie fans or just fans of having the craic, Kinsale might be the place to be this May bank holiday. Just get that booking with St Francis Provisions well in advance!