Round Tower Restaurant & Bar

In the heart of Ireland's Ancient East, the Round Tower Restaurant & Bar in Kells stands as proof that some of the best culinary surprises lurk in historic market towns. Named after the iconic medieval tower that watches over this Heritage Town, this establishment has mastered that elusive Irish talent of making you feel simultaneously special and completely at home.

The moment you step into the Round Tower Restaurant & Bar, you're greeted by the warm glow of well-worn wood and the gentle murmur of conversation that marks all great Irish pubs. But don't let the traditional pub facade fool you - this Kells gem has a few unexpected tricks up its sleeve. Where else can you find perfectly executed Thai cuisine sharing menu space with classic Irish comfort food? It's like finding out your grandmother secretly trained as a Muay Thai fighter - delightfully unexpected and absolutely brilliant.

What truly sets the Round Tower apart from other Kells establishments is its remarkable ability to wear multiple hats without dropping any of them. The bar area hums with the energy of locals catching up over pints, while the restaurant section manages to create intimate dining spaces that feel worlds away from the pub atmosphere. It's this clever division of space that allows them to serve both the after-work crowd and anniversary dinner couples without either feeling out of place.

The food here deserves its own paragraph (or three). The steak, a dish that features prominently in rave reviews, arrives with the kind of perfect sear that makes meat lovers weak at the knees. Their rendition of bacon and cabbage - a dish that could be mundane in lesser hands - emerges from the kitchen as a masterclass in comfort food elevation. Each plate comes with portions generous enough to satisfy a hungry farmer, yet presented with an attention to detail that wouldn't look out of place in a fancy Dublin restaurant.

Speaking of value, the Round Tower has somehow managed to keep their prices firmly in the reasonable category, despite the quality of their offerings. In an era where a sandwich and coffee can cost you a small fortune, finding a proper meal that doesn't require a second mortgage feels like stumbling upon buried treasure. The menu prices here feel like they were set by someone who actually remembers what it's like to eat out on a regular person's budget.

The beverages deserve special mention too. The bar stocks an impressive array of spirits, and the Guinness - because let's be honest, that's what many of us judge an Irish pub by - is poured with the patience and precision of a watchmaker. For those steering clear of alcohol, they've thoughtfully included non-alcoholic options that go beyond the usual bland suspects.

Walk in on a match day, and you'll find the space transformed into a community living room, with supporters gathered around the screens, creating the kind of atmosphere that makes watching sports in public infinitely better than viewing at home. The clever layout means that even during big games, diners can still enjoy their meals in relative peace in the restaurant section.

The staff here have perfected that distinctly Irish knack for making you feel like you've been coming in for years, even on your first visit. They'll guide you through the menu with honest recommendations and won't judge you for wanting both the Thai curry and the traditional Irish stew - trust me, you wouldn't be the first to make that particular decision.

For families, the Round Tower Restaurant & Bar in Kells hits the sweet spot between grown-up dining and kid-friendly atmosphere. The generous portions and unfussy service mean parents can relax without worrying about judgy looks if their little ones don't quite manage silver-service etiquette. Plus, the variety on offer means even the pickiest eaters should find something to their taste.

If you're exploring Kells - perhaps after visiting the actual round tower or the other medieval marvels this town is famous for - the Round Tower Restaurant & Bar offers the perfect pit stop. It's more than just a meal; it's a slice of modern Irish life served with a side of historical charm. Whether you're a local or just passing through, do yourself a favor and grab a table. Just remember to book ahead for dinner - the secret of this place isn't quite so secret anymore, and the locals have been keeping those tables warm for good reason.