The Ever-Reliable Jim Edwards Restaurant in Kinsale

 The Ever-Reliable Jim Edwards Restaurant in Kinsale

Duck

Since 1971, the Edwards family have provided excellent food in a warm, friendly atmosphere to its many Irish and international visitors. Situated in the heart of Kinsale (Co. Cork), the Jim Edwards restaurant is a reliable stop when you are looking for food here.

For fifty years now, Jim Edwards has been a key player in Kinsale’s culinary scene and is, of course, a member of the Kinsale Good Food Circle that organises the hugely successful Gourmet Festival each autumn.

We were in the seaside town earlier in the week and when we found our chosen cafe, a relatively new one, closed even though their Facebook page said they were open 8-4 every day bar Sunday, we had to go walkabout and find an alternative.  It wasn’t the only one closed on the day, the walk got longer, and we came to another café, but all they had to offer was an all-day brunch menu (more breakfast than lunch), and we moved on.

Mussels

We hit the jackpot around the corner when we saw that Jim Edwards was open, offering a choice of attractive dishes (based on local produce) and all well-priced.

Soon we were seated and, without asking, were informed of the specials. Service was friendly (nothing intrusive) and on the ball throughout, while seats and banquettes were all comfortable.

There is no liquid nitrogen or culinary foams here, nothing pretentious, but you do get high-quality food (and generous portions). Watch out for some superb meat dishes, like Baked Homemade Lasagna with salad and chips or Grilled 6-oz Sirloin Steak Sandwich with caramelised Red Onion, Salad, and fries. 

On the fish side, check the Traditional Fish and chips or the much sought-after (if more expensive) Grilled Black Sole on the Bone with Lemon and Parsley Butter. Oysters and mussels also feature here, and we began by sharing a starter portion of Kinsale Steamed Mussels in a garlic cream (€13.50).

Chicken

When you see the word Skeaghanore on a menu, you know you are on a winner unless, like our honest server, you “hate duck.” I had no hesitation whatsoever in going for Pan-Roasted Skeaghanore Duck Breast with Spring Onion Mash, Red Cabbage, Orange Glaze (24.00). And, though it wasn't listed, a side dish of fries also appeared.

CL loves her Chasseur Sauce, so when she saw it listed with the Golden Fried Chicken Breast, Vegetables and Potatoes (€18), she picked that and was soon giving it the big thumbs up.

Indeed, as on previous visits, it was thumbs up all round for Jim Edwards, their staff and their food.

Jim Edwards https://www.jimedwardskinsale.com/  is rightly proud of its local suppliers, including those listed here:

Matt O’Connell
Haddock, Monkfish, Prawns

Jimbo’s Fish
Hake, Sole, Cod

De Brun Iasc Tro
Crab

Haven Shellfish
Mussels, Oysters, Scallops

O’ Connell Meats
Steaks & Poultry

Dawn Meats
Pork, Beef & Lamb

Skeaghanore Farm
Duck

All Fresh
Fruit & Vegetables

Clona Foods
Dairy Products

Rosscarbery Farms
Irish Strawberries