Top Coffee & Brunch Spots
If you find yourself along the Ring of Kerry, wanting to make a worthwhile stop-off for some brunch, coffee and treats in a picturesque location to help refuel for the rest of your journey, there's a good chance you'll pass by to some of my top picks!
Whether you’re a local looking for freshly baked scones, avocado and eggs on toast, or a quick pit-stop in need of a quality flat white, this guide is for you.
Here are my top picks for the best brunch and coffee spots in South Kerry — where the food is just as unforgettable as the scenery.
1. Bari Cafe – Cahersiveen
A bright cafe, located in the heart of Cahersiveen town and right along the Ring of Kerry route. It boasts a cosy interior, great atmosphere and even better coffee, guaranteed to always be greeted by friendly staff making it the perfect mid-morning stop.
- Must-Try: Moroccan Flatbread with beetroot humus, grilled zucchini & aubergine, goats’ cheese, pickled red onion, dukkah spice and rocket
- Vibe: Casual, cosy, lots of natural light
- Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9-4/5pm
- Menu: Full menu
- Tip: Arrive early for a window seat!
Vegetarian flatbread Bari Cafe 2. Watch House - Valentia Island
This buzzing local gem brings a charm, with its laid-back, friendly, seaside vibe. Known for its delicious home baked pastries, top coffee, baps and pizzas all made in-house by its family-run owners. You're guaranteed to always be greeted by a friendly welcome here.
- Must-Try: Hard to choose, but its got to be their cinnamon buns - try to get them fresh out the oven!
- Vibe: Outdoors, seaside, laid-back
- Opening Hours: Saturday and Sunday 9-4/5pm
- Menu: Follow along their instagram
- Tip: Order takeaway pizzas early on the weekends, these are popular, once they're gone, they're gone!
3. An Bothán - The Glen
Located in what is probably the most picturesque location in South Kerry, St. Finian's Bay, looking out towards the Skellig Islands. An Bothán, sister of Driftwood restaurant, is a outdoor hut with a beautiful mix of freshly made coffee, loaded fries, buddha bowls, baked goods and more! To get to this off the beaten track area you leave the Ring of Kerry towards the scenic Skellig Ring road. This is one place you do not want to miss!
- Must-Try: Mexican loaded fries
- Vibe: Family-friendly, laid-back, outdoors
- Opening Hours: Thursday-Monday 10:30-4:30pm
- Menu: Follow their instagram for up to date food choices!
- Tip: Grab your food and coffee to go and bring down to the beach to watch the waves and look out to the Skelligs
4. Cafe Cois Trá - Ballinskelligs
This place has got you covered for rainy or sunny days. Choose to enjoy your grub inside the otherwordly wooden cabin or outside on a picnic bench under the bell tent. The menu is simple and full of flavour - toasties and soup, sausage rolls, treats to beat the band and one of the best cups of coffee you will find. Weekend pizza and wine are available in the evenings in a magical location, by the sea with live music every Sunday. It's the perfect post-hike/swim reward after exploring Ballinskelligs Beach.
- Must-Try: Veggie toastie - red pepper hummus, guerkins, tomatoes, cheese all melted into one!
- Vibe: Full of charm, local spot, always a buzzing atmosphere
- Opening Hours: Wednsday-Monday 9:30-5pm / Friday-Sunday hours extend to 5-8pm
- Menu: Available on Google
- Tip: Go for a walk to the castle and abbey nearby and arrive with an appetite.
☕ Honorable Mentions:
Peter's Place (Waterville): An otherwordly experience looking out at the promenade in Waterville. Peter's Place is about as authentic as it gets! Pop in for a coffee and freshly baked treat by patisserie Peter. Be sure to find out some local insights about the area by the man himself!
Fox in the Box (Cahersiveen & Waterville): The perfect pitstop for your coffee and treat to go, coffee huts in two locations during the season delivered by friendly faces.
Tide and Thyme (Caherdaniel): Worth the stop for the views and the food. Located on the Ring of Kerry and serving up some delicious brunch options including Turkish eggs, French toast and bacon, Buttermilk pancakes all while looking out along Kenmare Bay and the Caherdaniel coastline. More can be found here.
🗺️ Make It a Day Out
Brunch in South Kerry isn’t just about the food — it’s about the whole experience. Pair your café stop with:
A walk around Derrynane House & Gardens
A swim at Ballinskelligs Beach
A drive along the Skellig Ring
A visit to Valentia Island Lighthouse
Final Thoughts
South Kerry does brunch beautifully unhurried, locally rooted, and full of charm. Have a favorite spot I missed? Let me know or tag your brunch adventures with on Instagram.