+353 21 239 0479+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Mon
17:00 - 21:30
Tue
17:00 - 21:30
Wed
17:00 - 21:30
Thu
17:00 - 21:30
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
Travellers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
Learn More
CUISINES
Irish, Brew Pub, Barbecue, European, Grill
Special Diets
Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner
features
Does this restaurant offer highchairs for toddlers?
Details
CUISINES
Irish, Brew Pub, Barbecue, European, Grill
Special Diets
Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner
FEATURES
Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, American Express, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
Contribute
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.5
1,379 reviews
Excellent
1,104
Very good
189
Average
51
Poor
24
Terrible
11
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
This service may contain translations powered by Google. Google disclaims all warranties related to the translations, express or implied, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and noninfringement.
J2024
Cork185 contributions
Jul 2023 • solo
Came here solo ate at the bar, first impressions are hip and cool it’s takes a second to realise the inside is relatively small the overwhelming feel is busy without feeling cramped. The restaurant is centred on the grill where you can watch as your meat is prepared. Matt the bar tender went through the menu in detail though with the noise I only caught every other word friendly and efficient is the byword for the staff in general.
I wasn’t drinking but there’s a range of cocktails which looked amazing and since there’s a brewery on site a large range of their own craft beers.
For starters I had Deep fried pork belly, fish sauce caramel, chili & peanut the outside was crispy the inside was soft and almost creamy melt in your mouth flavour the spice kicks in on the second bite would class it, for Irish palettes anyway, as on the spicer end really enjoyed best part of the night.
For mains I had the Sirloin steak on the bone wood smoked ( special of the night) it was flavourful but between the fat and bone took a minute to cut into manageable shape was good but not in the same league as the pork belly. I had two sides the house fries really well seasoned with the house blend and the Smoked king oyster mushrooms in panko crumb, chorizo, aioli which arrived a little later nice and went down well. Really important to note that the steaks , I don’t know about the other mains , only come with a really small portion of salad you really do need to order sides.
Dessert was a chocolate mousse served with marshmallows finished with a cappuccino. I had a Coke Zero during the meal bill was 71 before tip.
I was happy with service it bustled along I was checked at all parts of the meal not just by Matt it was cool sitting at the counter you got to see staff make desserts and use to Bunsen burners to prepare, Didnt like that staff Didnt or couldn’t use the the end of the counters to collect drinks so service trays were being put right beside me I am clumsy at the best of times I was nervous of knocking something over by accident.
Overall I enjoyed and would definitely come back I thought it was fairly reasonable value however as stated the sides for mains are necessary not a optional extra and when you do that your in lower end fine dining price territory. Still thinks it’s worth it but if your drinking or out and paying for another person or more could get real expensive fast worth noting as of writing its older menus on there websites items are similar or even the same in many cases Price’s are not so again if going with a group and call ahead and ask for a menu.
Written 7 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wilfredo Romero Suarez
Cork8 contributions
Oct 2024 • couples
Our first time in Elbow Lane and I must say, what an amazing experience, the beauty and coziness of the place creates a perfect atmosphere for any special occasion. When I first did my booking they were very accommodating about my needs and purpose of my visit.
I went to celebrate my partner’s birthday and as we were greeted for the lovely and charismatic May we felt right at home! She added that extra element you need to complement the food, she was exceptional on her service skills, she explained the menu, even went out of her way to let us taste the different wine selection they had before we chose a bottle. I must say we wouldn’t have had the same experience if she hadn’t been there!!
The food was something you definitely have to experience, no other restaurant in Cork can do what Elbow Lane does, hence the awards showing on the entrance will give you that reassurance!
We will definitely go back!!
Written 7 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Koriandyr
18 contributions
Sept 2023 • couples
We selected this restaurant to try out Ireland's version of smokehouse barbecue and for something different. Being from the US and knowing smokehouse cuisine, this did not disappoint. Seating is minimal as it is a very small place. Since we did not have advance reservations, we sat at the bar. They offertheit own beers on tap which were quite good and some unique cocktails. We had a rack of ribs and a 10 oz rib-eye. The meats were done perfectly and seasoned well. The rib-eye melted in my mouth. We were very impressed by the quality of food and service. If you don't want to sit at the bar, advance reservations are almost necessary.
Written 11 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fabrizio
Ventimiglia17 contributions
Aug 2024 • friends
Unfortunately we did not have the pleasure of being able to eat but the Reservation System is scandalous! Although booked by email we were confirmed a table for 5 people at 21 (time almost beyond the limit for these parts). We arrived at the door and the young guy (definitely not up to managing simple bookings) gave us the good news that he had not read "for 5 people" but for 2 sending us away without dinner. I thought it was really bad! Some people shouldn't have anything to do with catering! Scandalous
Automatically translated
Written 21 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Boblet76
Leicester105 contributions
Oct 2024 • couples
A wonderful find in Cork. A delightful and bustling yet cosy restaurant. We were warmly welcomed by the staff who were knowledgeable about the menu and took the time to explain what was on offer. The Ribeye steaks were outstanding and the pepper sauce grating and charred broccoli were the perfect accompaniments. Sadly we had no room for dessert. A great restaurant.
Written 18 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eric P
Washington DC9 contributions
Oct 2024 • family
If you are in Cork, and you don't visit Elbow Lane, you'll be missing the best restaurant in the city! We spent four days in Cork in October of this year, and we dined at some of the spots Trip Advisor contributors suggested. All were good. Elbow Lane was our best experience. The staff (Matt was an AMAZING host!) were incredibly friendly, suggesting other places we might visit and even offering tips on additional dining options. Our meal was outstanding! Steaks and ribs, pints of their own Angel Stout, and everything was prepared perfectly! If you're looking for cozy, combined with friendly and a remarkable meal, make your reservation now!
Written 1 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Corcaigh80s
126 contributions
Jul 2024 • friends
2 of us ate here on a sunday evening. My friend is a coeliac. We were greeted by a lovely waitress who explained the specials and dishes. My friend is a coeliac and could not have any starter and could only only have one side. Even the look on the waitress face.. she knew this was wrong. We both ordered the T bone steak, the steak was veiny and tough and the smoke hosuse rub was way too overpowering. The head chef needs to improve the menu offering and quality of food.
Written 23 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
James O
Cork1089 contributions
Mar 2023 • friends
The setting is comfortable and informal and the servers are polite and enthusiastic, however the T-bone stake which was supposed to be the star of the show and promised as an over 30 day dry aged succulent meal turned out not to be that at all.
The steaks which arrived to the table were tough, small and a more than a little tasteless. The fillet of a T-bone depends on which part of the animal it is cut from, and the cheaper cut dictated that the fillet, if one could call it that at all, was a barely discernible triangle of meat. All three of my party had steak and not one was impressed with the cut, the quality nor the flavour.
I also believe that it is more than a little ridicules that a € 29 T-bone is simply the steak with a little side salad, and everything else is an additional payment !!! € 5 for a ramekin of wedges etc. The salad which was by far and away the most flavoursome item on the plate also meant that the steak was served on a cold plate.
I don't wish to be overly negative so again I must complement the enthusiastic servers and also the management that removed the wedges from the bill when we voiced our disappointment of the steaks, showing an awareness of customer service that is not common these days and deserves to be admired, however in general I found the steak to be far below the level of the described hype, over priced, a cheaper cut and of questionable quality.
I regret that I had to compile this review, no one goes out for a meal to be disappointed, or to run down someone's business, however I unfortunately most certainly will not be a return customer
Written 27 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
declan h
County Cork50 contributions
Feb 2023 • couples
There is much to like about this place delicious own brews and guest beers excellent knowledgeable staff with zero condescension and plenty of apparently genuine enthusiasm. The menu too reels you in with the promise of steak from the smoker conjuring images of seared succulent steaks dripping with house special butter. What arrived was thin if not a little miserable slice of beef on a bone with not a smidgen sear to be seen . In fact it was a dull brown mono coloured steak that looked like it had just been sitting in pan. Tasted ok the butter was already on it allegedly- did get some other flavours but hard to tell. A good desert lifted the mood but overall it did seem a waste of substantial house equipment.
Written 13 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
McCloskey13
Ireland84 contributions
Jul 2024 • solo
I have a habit of going to the second rated restaurant in every city I go to, with the theory that it’s actually better than the first. This certainly was an experience from start to finish. Their home-brewed stout was phenomenal and was smooth from start to finish. Their steaks were also out of this world - the menu is quite small and there only seemed to be two chefs in the kitchen was it was more than enough. I sat at the bar and nearly had a kink in my neck from watching them all evening. Fantastic food all round. The staff were also amazing, it was difficult to tell who was ‘in charge’ and for me that is the sign of a good and well run team. If you’re in Cork City, make sure you go here!
Written 24 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Philm77
United Kingdom43 contributions
Jan 2024 • couples
Amazing restaurant. Booked in an advance and was glad we did as the place was full. Lovely decor and an open kitchen. Only a small menu but think this added to the quality of the food. Has its own micro brewery attached and the ales are all brewed in line with German brewing regulations and this was apparent in the beer. Wife had a rib eye steak and I had the t-bone. Both cooked to perfection on a wood grill with butter and their own seasoning. Also ordered some chips and a peppercorn sauce potato gratin which was a new thing on me and something I will try myself. Shared the chocolate mousse dessert which was also delicious.The staff were very helpful and friendly explaining the provenance of the produce and the ethos of the restaurant. Great atmosphere and reasonable price for amazing food. I would definitely book again if back in Cork.
Written 28 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gabriele o
Civitavecchia6 contributions
Dec 2023 • friends
a unique experience! I come from one of the cradles of food (Italy) and for me eating in this place was an amazing experience. one of the places where I ate best in the world! compliments to the chef but not only... the waiters have excellent preparation, which is more unique than rare! I will return to Cork just for you.
Written 21 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stephen K
Winter Park5133 contributions
Nov 2022 • family
What a fantastic experience. The service was excellent & our server May was wonderful. The space is compact & quaint with table & counter service. Make a reservation or you might be disappointed because you can’t get a seat while you’re here. This is a steakhouse with alternative choices too such as whole fish or a vegetarian option too. My wife had the sea bass, which I tasted very nice & light l. I had T-bone served to perfection & cooked over fore grill. The cocktails were excellent too, try their punch if they have it. The malt chocolate mouse was excellent as well.
Written 22 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Loretta R
1 contribution
May 2024 • family
We booked in for 530pm on a Tuesday evening and the place was full. A good sign we thought! We were right!. Our server Leah was professional, friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the whole menu. She gave us insight into what to expect flavour wise of the items we chose. I had the ribeye steak and husband had the rack of ribs. We also had peppercorn potatoes gratin. The steak was cooked to perfection and was so tasty and flavoursome. I thought my husband would not be filled with the ribs but he had plenty. The side salad was also delicious. There was nothing left on either plate. I enjoyed a spicy margarita cocktail and he really enjoyed the housemade Lager. Will definitely be back soon. 10/10
Written 29 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
napageneral
Massachusetts12 contributions
Oct 2023 • couples
Managed to snag a late res at a high top table and glad we did. Our server Leah was fantastic, let us taste wines before ordering and led us to the best items for first time visitors. The rib eye steak was perfectly cooked and seasoned, one of the best we've ever had. The starters are inspired and wine list works well with the menu. The room is intimate and we could watch our food being prepared. Get on board this train!
Written 17 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Showing results 1-15 of 1,239
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Best nearby hotels
See all Best nearby restaurants
See all Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing