10 romantic Cork spots for a first date (trust us; they’ll be WEAK)
So you’ve popped the question, but where should you take them?
We all know first dates are exciting but they can also be incredibly nerve-wracking… and you want to feel comfortable as you ask your first date important questions such as what they work as and quickly realise you went to school with their first cousin. This is Cork, like.
It’s important to make sure that both you and your date feel relaxed, so here are some ideas to make the setting a little less awkward, and a lot more romantic.
Counting down from ten…
10. The Raven Bar
This Art-Deco space located on North Main Street is the perfect cosy spot for you and your date to become acquainted. It’s also right in the middle of town in case you need to make a swift getaway.
With fantastic cocktails, a variety of draft beers, and a stunning wine menu, you will be well taken care of while perusing the delicious food menu.
Not everyone likes eating big meals on first dates, but The Raven’s Bar Bites menu would accompany any drink nicely.
Book at: The Raven
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9. Mutton Lane
This intimate candle-lit venue is located in the heart of Patrick Street. You could even arrange to meet outside Brown Thomas and stroll down together, like they did back in the day when it was Cash’s.
A cosy haven, it’s the ideal haven for you and your date to get to know each other over a bottle of wine and candlelight.
Walk-ins are welcome but for more information, you can check out their Facebook.
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8. The Castle Café
Take your date on a lovely autumn stroll down the Marina and end your walk in the Castle Café and restaurant located in the grounds of historic Blackrock Castle.
Their Mediterranean food with a local twist will be sure to impress your date. With a full bar and exciting wine and cocktails list, you’ll be spoiled for choice. They also have excellent coffee.
Reservations can be made here.
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7. Pigalle
Located on the lovely Barrack Street, this is the perfect place to meet for dinner and cocktails. Their unique menu is produced in a playful manner to represent their food philosophy.
There’s a three-course meal deal for €35 and with a choice of indoor dining or a seat in their lovely garden, your date will really feel the romance in this cosy, candle-lit craft cocktail bar.
Bookings can be made on their website.
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6. Blarney Castle & Gardens
Evening dates aren’t for everyone. If you’re dating during daylight hours, take your amour to the stunning Blarney Castle & Gardens and take a stroll through their diverse plantscapes, from tranquil to serene, to mystical and magical places.
Grab a coffee in The Stable Yard and Cafe before you start your walk and maybe grab something from their lovely menu afterwards.
From the top of the castle, you can take in wonderful views of gardens and waterways. Your date can even kiss the Blarney Stone… and maybe yourself if it’s going well.
For more info and booking, click here.
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5. The Oyster Tavern
Located on the Market Lane entrance to the English Market, this romantic spot has two floors with a relaxed traditional feel on the ground floor, with a beautifully designed upstairs bar perfect for dining and social sips. Both floors would offer the perfect setting for a first date.
Whether your love interest prefers steak and Beamish or wine and tapas, there’s plenty of options to choose from.
Bookings for you and your date can be made here.
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4. A trip to Kinsale
A trip to Kinsale couldn’t have more options to keep your date entertained.
Take them for a stroll along Kinsale Harbour with a coffee. You can have fish and chips while overlooking the water, or explore the lovely restaurants Kinsale has to offer such as Man Friday’s, The Spaniard, or The White House.
There’s plenty to do in this gorgeous, colourful seaside town.
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3. Triskel Arts Centre
Is your date a fan of the arts?
Impress them by taking them to the Triskel Arts Centre, which offers a selection of live shows and cinema viewings. Nothing breaks the ice quite like watching a performance and discussing what you thought of everything afterwards.
The venue even hosts weddings, so if the date goes really well, who knows… you might be back there in a few years.
More information available here.
2. Cask
If things get awkward, the intriguing seasonal cocktail menu at Cask will provide an excellent talking point while you wait for the ice to melt on a first date. With the choice of indoor seating or a gorgeous courtyard, you’re guaranteed a lovely romantic evening on MacCurtain Street.
There’s live music too so you could even have your date dancing at the end of the night.
Book a table at Cask Cork.
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1. The Glasshouse at The Montenotte Hotel
One of the most romantic spots in Cork, while they’re not taking in the breathtaking Cork views over the city, your date will be looking at you in the twinkly lights of the Montenotte’s new terrace filled with stunning soft pink outdoor furnishings and uninterrupted views.
With some piano music in the background, the food and cocktail menu will have your date weak at the knees.
You can book on 021 453 0050. *Subject to Covid-19 restrictions
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We’re sure if you book one of these first dates, there may be a second!
