Poachers (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Poachers?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: Whiskey paddle, bar chat and live trad nights help solos mingle; cookery classes and forest walks add daytime interest; strong Wi-Fi and safe staffed venue suit independent travel.
Positives:
- Meet Locals: Bar seating invites conversation with staff and fellow guests.
- Free Wi-Fi: 400MB complimentary data is handy for quick online check-ins.
Challenges:
- Brunch Booking: Weekend brunch fills up quickly; reserve ahead to avoid waiting.
- Wi-Fi Limit: Data cap is 400MB; bring mobile data for longer use.
What is Poachers?
- A seafood bar and restaurant in Bandon, County Cork, specializing in fresh West Cork shellfish and fish sourced from nearby waters
- Housed in a restored 18th-century riverside building featuring a casual-chic dining room, garden terrace and intimate upstairs tapas lounge
- Operates an on-site cookery school offering hands-on West Cork seafood classes in a purpose-built demonstration kitchen
What is so special about Poachers for solo trip?
- Brunch with local seafood dishes
- Sample Irish whiskey at the bar
- Enjoy live trad-music nights
- Learn seafood cooking with a group demo
- Chat with staff about West Cork heritage
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for brunch, a whiskey paddle, and live music.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Poachers
Sunday Brunch:
Enjoy crab fishcake with chili dip and coffee during the 10:30–12:30 session.
Tip: Book online after 5PM to secure a table on busy weekends.
Whiskey Paddle:
Sample three 20ml pours of Irish whiskey at the bar.
Tip: Sit at the bar to chat with staff and locals.
Live Music Nights:
Drop in for trad-music sessions with no cover charge.
Tip: Arrive early to grab a seat near the stage.
Poachers Cookery School:
Join a group demo to learn West Cork seafood recipes.
Tip: Opt for the demo-only class (€25) to meet fellow travelers.
Heritage Chat:
Listen to staff share stories of West Cork history over a pint.
Tip: Bring up local history questions to spark conversation.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Poachers
- Advance Table Booking: Use the online booking system for brunch slots on weekends.
- Early Arrival: Get to evening music early to secure a front-row spot.
- Demo-Only Classes: Choose the €25 cooking demo to save on the full tasting fee.
Reviews of Poachers
Phillip O'Brien
We had dinner here last week. We had been here a number of years ago and the standard has gone down a lot. I had seafood chowder which was full of potatoes and very little seafood and came with a skin on top. The turkey was dry and the ham looked like it was out of a packet, there was no stuffing which is very odd with a turkey and ham meal. The potatoes and gravy were nice. Side order of chips we...
Damian Zapart
Food was OK but a bit pricey. Staff was great. They lost Michelin's recommendation for a reason.
Angi B
We stopped here on the way to the ferry and we were not disappointed. The food was delicious. We had a starter and main course and all of our dishes were excellent. This pub offers exceptional value for money, whoever is in the kitchen knows what they are doing. The service staff were also lovely and attentive. Will definitely return.
Hetty IRL
I always wanted to eat here and I was not disappointed. The atmosphere was wonderful food was tasty and more than enough to eat . The service was excellent and very pleasant and friendly most of all very professional. They had a wonder stove and the place was lovely and warm . 🥰
Assunta D
Excellent Sunday Lunch: great food in a nice cosy atmosphere. The service was quick, the staff were friendly and polite, Oliver has been amazing! I was very impressed with the fish pie at a reasonable price. We stopped here on the way back to Cork. Highly recommended it!
When is the best time to visit Poachers (Cork, Ireland)?
In summer, enjoy candlelit garden seating during evening live music. In winter, cozy up indoors with a whiskey paddle by the fireplace.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Brunch | EUR 17 |
| Whiskey Paddle | EUR 15 |
| Live Music | EUR 0 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 32 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Poachers
Address: Clonakilty Rd, Gully, Bandon, Co. Cork, Ireland
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About Poachers
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+353 23 884 115910 BEST nearby Activities
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