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The Yard Cafe, located in the heart of Kilkenny, is a cozy space that captivates diners with its delightful atmosphere and attentive service. Reviews from satisfied customers highlight the friendly and efficient staff, particularly a helpful manager who ensures everyone feels at home. Food quality is a consistent highlight; patrons rave about the pesto chicken panini and smashed avocado with baked eggs, both of which reflect fresh and vibrant ingredients.
Reviewers like Jenny T appreciate the generous portions, especially the indulgent and rich French toast, served with ample bacon and syrup, and the recommended warm brownie with cream – a true dessert treat. While the cafe's interior might feel snug, the outdoor seating creates an inviting option, perfect for those looking to enjoy Kilkenny's charm.
However, not all dishes impress; some reviewers found the cheesecake overly sweet and the avocado lacking in seasoning. Despite these minor critiques, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Service may vary during busy periods, but the quality of the meals and the warm environment make The Yard Cafe a must-visit culinary gem.
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Amenities & More
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Solo dining
- Good for working on laptop
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Groups
- Tourists
Reviews for The Yard Cafe
Review highlights
Based on 448 reviewsThe Yard Cafe in Kilkenny is widely recognized for its cozy atmosphere, friendly and attentive service, and a diverse menu that caters well to vegetarian preferences. Customers frequently praise the quality and freshness of the food, with particular mentions of standout dishes like pesto chicken and smashed avocado. While the cafe’s interior is small, outdoor seating adds comfort, especially during busy times. Some reviews note occasional slow service due to understaffing and suggest a need for improved cleanliness. Sweet options, such as cheesecake, received mixed feedback regarding sweetness levels. Overall, The Yard Cafe is recommended for its welcoming environment, flavorful meals, and accommodating staff, making it a favored spot for casual dining and quick lunches.
I was here with my husband and teenage daughter for lunch. We sat inside and it had a great stmosphere. The staff are efficient and friendly. The lady who seems to be in charge was incredibly good, very attentive and was flying about ensuring everyone was OK. The food was incredible. Can't wait to go back.
A friend recommended this place as it’s vegetarian friendly and the food is good. My kids loved the French toast and they didn’t skimp on the bacon or maple syrup which I appreciate. The smashed avocado came with a baked egg on top and some beetroot salad. My husband doesn’t like beets but he liked their salad. The inside is quite small so outside seating would be more comfortable. I recommend the brownie as it’s served warm with a side of cream and melted chocolate. I typically think it’s blasphemy not to serve a warm brownie with vanilla ice cream but this worked. I love food and I eat well and I although I don’t have a refined fancy palate I do know good fresh food. You won’t be disappointed. Bathroom was also clean and well stocked. Bonus for a working hand dryer.
Very Cosy place! Very friendly stuff. The Chicken Pesto is lovely. The Chai latte is not too sweet like other places. The Cheese cake on the other hand is a no go. Diabetes overload (waaay to much sugar) I would say the place does need a good scrub down and deep clean. Overall I would recommend.
Cute little cozy cafe. We had their pesto chicken panini and smashed avocado with eggs, hot chocolate and mocha — love their pesto chicken sandwich and drinks. smashed avocado needed more salt/lime and the sourdough was not the best. Loved their sides, the chickpea, couscous, salad and coleslaw were all fresh and tasty Service was very quick and friendly. Recommended
Day trip to Kilkenny and we were looking for a quick easy spot to stop for lunch. The Yard seemed like an okay option, outdoor shaded seating next to the the live musician on the corner, and boy were we surprised at how GOOD the food was! Service was slow as they were obviously understaffed but the meal was amazing. Delicious veg options. Perfect lunch.
Such a gem of a cafe - the Vegan Nut Roast and salads is probably the best I’ve tasted in any cafe/restaurant and the selection of salads served with it is 10/10 - if I’m not that hungry I’ll go for the vegan sausage rolls again a firm favourite, Earl Grey is Suki one of my favourites! I always have it with oat milk and service and staff are a delight.
A nice chai latte was had, I didn't have food on this occasion but have eaten very good food here before. The staff are very attentive and social. We shall visit again
Very kind staff. And I said KIND not NICE. A good example of how to be kind and not "nice". Got a discount and also my water bottle was refilled. Great experience after I was judged at the cathedral nearby (St Canice's) for being from a different country and having a disability.
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Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM
- Tuesday 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM
- Wednesday 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM
- Thursday (Today) 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM
- Friday 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM
- Saturday 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM
- Sunday 08:30 AM - 06:00 PM
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