Visit Kilkenny with Ristorante Rinuccini’s top city hot-spots
@RinucciniKK | #Rinuccini25
It is now 25 years since Ristorante Rinuccini took up residence on Parade Plaza in Co. Kilkenny. The Cavaliere family, originally from Lazio in Italy, first settled in nearby Portlaoise but were set on finding a permanent home in the beautiful medieval city of Kilkenny. A dream property became available overlooked by the majestic Kilkenny Castle and as the family settled in, the many delights that the city offers began to reveal themselves.
Recently named Europe’s friendliest city, Kilkenny is known as a top-foodie destinations along with having a reputation for showcasing world-class arts events, comedy and music festivals. Kilkenny can offer so much more for the culturally curious visitor from city tours and garden walks to castles and crafts!
Rinuccini’s favourite things to do in Kilkenny; a gorgeous day out just on our doorstep.
The beautiful 12 century Kilkenny Castle stands strikingly on a height overlooking the city! The castle and grounds command stunning views of the River Nore and city centre. Originally built for the 4th Earl of Pembroke, Kilkenny Castle later became the residence of the Butler family before they bequeathed it to the people of Kilkenny in return for a token payment of £50! Today the castle itself and its beautiful grounds are open to the public giving us all the chance to walk in the path of the gentry of the day. With over 50 acres of parkland, including a formal rose garden, tree-lined walkways, a lake where visitors can sit and feed a family of ducks and one of Ireland’s most respected art galleries, Butler Gallery, there’s so much to enjoy at our near-by neighbours!
Just across the road in the buildings that were formerly the stables with an under-ground passageway to the castle, is Kilkenny Design Centre one of the best destination shopping venues in the country for an unrivalled selection of Irish handcrafted gifts, heritage brands like Waterford Crystal and Belleek along with celebrated Irish Designers including John Rocha, Orla Kiely and Avoca Hand weavers.
Walk through the court yard to the National Craft Gallery of Ireland that hosts exciting craft and design exhibitions throughout the year and there you will find a collection of ceramic artist, jewellers and fine art exhibitions plus a gate-way to a secret garden….
Hidden at the back of the Castle Yard is a little known treasure in Kilkenny City, a stunning hidden garden of the renowned Butler House. The garden is a beautiful example of a walled formal garden with a pond, leafy walkways and ideally placed seating and pergolas to rest along your way. The house itself showcases numerous visual art exhibitions throughout the summer months and leads on to Patrick Street and into the bustling city centre with an array of boutique shops, a vibrant café culture and nightlife.
The Pembroke Hotel, Kilkenny’s premier four-star boutique hotel, with easy access to its many attractions and just a five minute walk from Rinuccini’s door! The perfect pre-dinner drink venue and one of our preferred over-night destinations in Kilkenny City, a spacious and tranquil setting right in the heart of the city!
Take a tour of the city by road-train! A novel way to sight-see! The 25 minute tour of the medieval city offers full commentary, giving you a fascinating background to the city. Hop on-board next to the castle just 2 minutes’ walk from our door!
After your busy day of shopping, sight–seeing, touring and cultural pursuits – Ristorante Rinuccini will make a welcomed stop for lunch or dinner. Choose from fresh Kilmore Quay Prawns, personally collected on our twice weekly trips to Wexford, to Italian classics like Spaghetti di Gamberoni. Select one of the wonderful wines, handpicked from local vineyards in the family hometown of Lazio and indulge in an Italian favourite Tira-mi-su – a little pick-me-up after a busy day.
To book your table for dinner or lunch, please call 056 776 1575
@RinucciniKK | #Rinuccini25
