Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork — Restaurant in Cork

We came to Quinlan’s hoping to try the chowder and the crab claw dish. When we arrived, there were no tables available and we were told we’d have to wait about an hour. However, after seeing the glowing reviews and the delicious-looking dishes on the tables, we decided it was worth the wait. We went for a pint nearby and came back later.

Unfortunately, by the time we returned, the crab claws were no longer available. We ordered two chowders to start – it was our first time ever trying this dish – and it was absolutely fantastic! Rich, flavourful, and comforting – easily one of the best starters we’ve had in a long time.

For mains, I had the seabass with mussel risotto, which ended up being our favourite dish of the evening – perfectly cooked and packed with flavour. My partner had the fish and chips, which was very good as well, although in comparison, the seabass dish stood out more.

We had mentioned early on that we’d likely order more food later, and were told it wouldn’t be a problem – even though the kitchen closed at 9, we were reassured that since we had a table, we’d be able to continue ordering. Later, we saw a seafood rice dish on another table (listed as a paella, though it looked more like a risotto) and decided to try it. However, when we tried to order it, our waiter Tristan kindly went to the kitchen, only to be told they wouldn’t prepare it.

That was disappointing – especially because we had checked in advance and had been told it wouldn’t be an issue. What made it slightly worse was that the manager told us it was due to “miscommunication,” when in fact we were given incorrect information. That being said, Tristan was very kind and helpful throughout the evening, and handled the situation professionally. The staff even offered us a dessert on the house to make up for it, but since we don’t eat sweets, they kindly removed one of our drinks from the bill instead.

All in all, we’d absolutely come back – the food was excellent, especially the chowder and risotto. It’s true that the portion of the risotto was a bit smaller than what we’d seen in some pictures, but the quality of the fish and the flavour made up for it.

Great food, warm service (especially from Tristan), and a lovely atmosphere – just be mindful of the kitchen...

What a fabulous dinning experience this has been! In town just for the weekend with no idea where to go for dinner so I googled restaurants near me and this place came up first. As a fish/seafood lover thought I could give it a try and so happy I did as it turned up to be amazing. Got lucky to get a table with no prior reservation and then the magic happened. The seafood chowder is so delicious, perfectly balanced/seasoned, so silky & tasty. The fish is also cooked to perfection. The best chowder I have had so far! Hands down! It is a starter but the portion is quite generous. The salmon with the greek salad & patatoes is also so good. Very refreshing & wholesome. The Bailey's creme brulee is perfection & paired my meal with one of the best white wines ever. I loved it so much that the next day I went back for dinner. Got lucky again and had a seat by the kitchen bar this time so I got to see all of the action & met the Chef- Frederique & his team. Special thanks go to the lovely lady who looked after me so nicely and friendly. Tried the scallops and they were fab, had to have the chowder again and of course the creme brulee. Both nights had the best food! This place is a must when in town. Fresh ingredients, great cooking skills and the service is top notch. What is not to like! Can not recommend enough. I will...

I have no major complaints about the food, I really enjoyed the fried prawns and calamari. They were cooked well and very fresh. We also ordered fish cakes which were nice. Chips weren’t to my taste, as they were too thick and not cooked enough for me. Salad dressing was a bit too sweet but generally speaking the food was good. The reason I’m only giving three stars is because of cleanliness and staff attentiveness. When we arrived to the restaurant we were shown to our table by a young male waiter. Despite there being another clean 2 seater next to us, the table he pointed us towards had the previous diners’ receipt and glass of water on it, which he just scooped up, ushering us to sit in. I had to ask him to wipe down the surface, which he then proceeded to do - using a strong smelling spray. I had to turn my head and cover my face, I’m 6.5 months pregnant. He did this quickly and not very thoroughly, perhaps feeling a little awkward about the oversight on his part, who knows! Another hygiene frustration was being given a water glass with lipstick on it which really just turns my stomach. Considering that we’re in the midst of another serious wave of covid, it would be nice to think that restaurants were doing their best to prevent the spread...