When you’re trying to be good, January can feel like it’s 220 days long.

The key to sticking it out for Dry January or Veganuary (or whatever you’re having yourself) is to intersperse the strict self-discipline with a little fun and relaxation.

Happily, Cork is home to some fabulous places to eat where you can order something delicious that feels like an indulgence without destroying your diet.

Here’s what we’re eating right now:

1. GO VEGGIE AT IYERS

Nestled across the bridge on Pope’s Quay, Iyers Cafe specialises in pure vegetarian and vegan authentic South Indian fare. The Samosa Chaat, a blend of chickpeas, potato, fresh greens, spices and chutneys, will warm your cockles like nobody’s business.

First order of 2019…. No surprises there!! #samosachaat. pic.twitter.com/JM8vUtoHcR

— Iyers cafe (@iyerscafe) January 9, 2019

2. GRAB A TAKEAWAY FROM LOVING SALADS

The perfect place to head for lunch when you’re not quite sure what you feel like, the colourful selection of options at Loving Salads will make sure you don’t end up in McDonalds. Get something extra for dinner while you’re there.

Good morning Cork, we are back and ready for 2019. We got you covered with all of our healthy salads, cold press juices, curries, soups, power balls, sweet treats and lots more 😁, see you soon. #healthyfood #kickstart2019 #glutenfree #dairyfree #vegan #vegetarian #Cork pic.twitter.com/wuSlsMp7gP

— LovingSalads (@LovingSalads) January 7, 2019

3. EAT NACHOS FOR LUNCH AT MY GOODNESS

There is no healthier way to kick off the New Year than with a belly full of probiotics. Our favourite English Market salad slingers are doing their divine nachos and any fizzy probiotic drink for a tenner.

Happy Veganuary! We have a pretty great deal for ya at the English Market…nachos and any fizzy probiotic drink for 10€! @EnglishMarket #Veganuary2019 #whatveganseat #probiotic #nachos #kombucha #kefir pic.twitter.com/9ZDcTkytoD

— My Goodness (@mygoodnessfood) January 9, 2019

4. ORDER A WELLNESS BOWL AT THE RIVER CLUB

Meeting a mate for a post-yoga catch-up? Take in the views on the terrace at The River Club and indulge in their Wellness Breakfast Bowl, a filling brunch blend of quinoa, avocado, tomato, broccoli and poached egg tossed in a low-calorie Seedlip dressing.

Need something to look forward to but trying to keep it clean this January? Our wellness breakfast bowl served at brunch is just the tonic: Quinoa, avocado, tomato, broccoli & poached egg, lightly tossed with our low calorie @SeedlipDrinks botanical dressing. #moveupriver pic.twitter.com/L8bTrSdYRk

— The River Club Cork (@TheRiver_Club) January 7, 2019

5. TRY A MEATY ALTERNATIVE AT THE CORNSTORE

Okay, so even we couldn’t truly classify this one as ‘clean eating’, but if you’re after something filling and you’re doing your best to avoid the burger menu, The Cornstore’s protein-rich, low calorie lamb’s liver could be a winner… just take it easy on the mashed potato.

Seared LAMBS LIVER..it’s rich in protein, low in calories and packed with essential vitamins and minerals…served with smoked bacon, caramelised onions, creamy mash & thyme jus..a great €10 Lunch Option this January #lunch #lambsliver #healthyeating #corklunch pic.twitter.com/iOKQ7x61NR

— Cornstore Restaurant (@cornstore_cork) January 7, 2019