Tony's Bistro
Cork's beloved mafia-themed bistro serving generous Irish breakfasts and creative lunch fare in a warm, family-run setting.
A beloved family-run bistro in Cork's city centre serving generous all-day Irish breakfasts and creative lunch dishes named after famous mafia figures. Located on North Main Street, Tony's has earned a loyal following for its hearty portions, friendly service, and reasonable prices. The distinctive Godfather-themed décor featuring mafia memorabilia creates a unique and entertaining dining atmosphere that appeals to families, solo diners, and groups alike.
A brief summary to Tony's Bistro
- 69 N Main St, Cork, Centre, T12 H61W, IE
- +353214270848
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early for breakfast, especially on weekends, as the bistro fills quickly. The morning rush is a testament to its popularity, but arriving before 9:00 AM typically means shorter waits.
- Come hungry—portions are genuinely substantial. Even the medium breakfast is large enough to satisfy most appetites, and sharing is a viable option for lighter eaters.
- Take time to appreciate the mafia-themed décor and dish names. The Godfather references and memorabilia add character and entertainment value to your meal.
- Try the sourdough toast—visitors consistently highlight the quality of the bread as a standout element of the meal.
- If you're indecisive about menu choices, don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; the owner is known for accommodating special requests and offering samples.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Tony's Bistro location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Tony's Bistro
A Cork Institution with Mafia-Themed Character
Tony's Bistro occupies a special place in Cork's dining landscape as a family-run establishment that has maintained its reputation for warmth and hospitality across generations. Located at 69 North Main Street in the city centre, the bistro's most distinctive feature is its creative mafia-themed décor, where every dish on the menu bears the name of a famous mobster from films and fiction. This playful concept transforms the dining experience into something memorable and entertaining, with walls adorned with Godfather iconography and mafia memorabilia that spark conversation and laughter among patrons.The All-Day Breakfast Philosophy
The restaurant has built its reputation primarily on its extensive all-day breakfast menu, which offers seemingly endless combinations of traditional Irish fare. Diners can construct their perfect breakfast from options including bacon, sausages, black pudding, eggs prepared multiple ways, beans, mushrooms, and tomatoes, accompanied by thick slabs of toasted sourdough or soda bread. Portions are notably generous—many visitors comment on the sheer volume of food served—making it an excellent choice for those with substantial appetites. The kitchen maintains consistency in food quality and temperature, and the breakfast menu caters to various dietary preferences with vegetarian options available alongside the traditional meat-based selections.Lunch Offerings and Menu Diversity
Beyond breakfast, the bistro's lunch menu features creative dishes that maintain the mafia naming convention, including specialties like the Oriental Express curry that has earned particular praise from regulars. The menu remains relatively stable year to year, reflecting the owner's philosophy that a well-executed selection needs no constant reinvention. Prices are positioned as inexpensive to mid-range, with most items falling between €10 and €15, making it accessible for budget-conscious diners seeking quality food without premium pricing.Service and Family-Friendly Atmosphere
The staff consistently receive praise for their attentiveness, friendliness, and genuine warmth. The owner is known for personal touches—such as surprising indecisive diners with sample portions of dishes they're considering—that reflect the family business ethos. The bistro actively welcomes families with children, offering colouring activities and high chairs, with staff making parents feel genuinely celebrated rather than merely tolerated. The pace of service is efficient without being rushed; even during peak times when waiting for a table is common, seated diners never feel pressured to leave quickly.Peak Times and Practical Considerations
Mornings are particularly busy, with the bistro packed from opening, especially on weekends. The restaurant operates seven days a week from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, making it accessible for early risers seeking a proper breakfast or late lunchers. The location on North Main Street places it in Cork's vibrant city centre, easily accessible on foot from most accommodation and attractions. During busy periods, arriving early or being prepared to wait briefly is advisable, though the quality of the experience justifies the wait for most visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
0.2 km
Explore Cork's Medieval City Wall: A journey through history in the heart of the city, revealing ancient defenses and architectural ingenuity.
National Monument - Cork
0.4 km
Discover the National Monument in Cork, a stunning historical landmark celebrating Ireland's rich heritage and independence.
Nano Nagle Bridge
0.4 km
Experience the beauty and history of Nano Nagle Bridge in Cork, an architectural marvel connecting communities and offering stunning riverside views.
Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
0.4 km
Discover the historic Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle in Cork's scenic The Lough area, open daily for a reflective journey into the past.
Father Mathew Statue
0.5 km
Discover the Father Mathew Statue in Cork, a historic landmark symbolizing the city's rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.
S Mall
0.5 km
Cork's elegant Georgian shopping street where historic architecture meets contemporary retail and culinary excellence.
Eamon de Valera Bridge
1.0 km
Discover the Eamon de Valera Bridge in Cork, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in history, perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking views.
Dundanion House Bridge
3.9 km
Discover the historic charm of Dundanion House Bridge in Cork: scenic views, rich history, and architectural beauty await!
Blarney Castle & Gardens
7.2 km
Experience the charm of Blarney Castle & Gardens in Ireland, where history, beauty, and legends come together in a breathtaking setting.
Blarney Stone
7.2 km
Experience the magic of the Blarney Stone at breathtaking Blarney Castle, where history, beauty, and charm await every visitor.
Old Church
12.9 km
Explore the historic Old Church of Cloyne in Co. Cork, a serene site rich in ecclesiastical heritage and stunning architecture amidst picturesque landscapes.
Cobh
13.5 km
Discover Cobh, a vibrant seaside town in County Cork, rich in maritime history and stunning coastal views, perfect for a memorable Irish getaway.
1 Pearse Square
13.7 km
Explore the enchanting Pearse Square in Cobh, a serene spot filled with historical significance and stunning coastal views.
Camden Fort Meagher
16.9 km
Explore Camden Fort Meagher: A historic fortress with breathtaking views, a local café, and engaging exhibits on Ireland's military history.
Island Wedge Tomb
20.0 km
Explore the Island Wedge Tomb in County Cork, a captivating Bronze Age monument offering a glimpse into Ireland's ancient funerary practices and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Coal Quay
0.1 km
A vibrant Saturday market on historic Cornmarket Street, celebrating Cork’s rich food heritage and lively community spirit.
Cornmarket St
0.1 km
Historic Cornmarket Street in Cork blends vibrant markets, rich heritage, and lively urban culture in the heart of the city centre.
Coal Quay Market
0.2 km
Experience Cork’s vibrant Saturday farmers’ market with fresh local produce, lively atmosphere, and rich historic roots on Cornmarket Street.
Bishop Lucey Park
0.2 km
Experience tranquility in Bishop Lucey Park, Cork, a lush urban retreat perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying local culture.
Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Saints Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Cork, a masterpiece of architecture and a serene spiritual retreat in a bustling city.
The Hanover
0.2 km
A lively Irish pub in Cork’s heart, blending traditional charm with vibrant nightlife and welcoming local spirit.
The Oval
0.2 km
Experience the essence of Irish culture at The Oval, Cork's iconic pub known for its lively atmosphere, local brews, and delicious traditional fare.
Grand Parade
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Grand Parade in Cork, where history meets modern charm and local culture thrives.
Berwick Fountain
0.3 km
A historic fountain in Cork's Grand Parade, symbolizing gratitude and civic pride since 1860. A popular meeting point and landmark.
Lavit Gallery
0.3 km
Discover contemporary Irish art at Lavit Gallery, a cultural gem in Cork, showcasing diverse exhibitions and local artistic talent.
Michael Collins Statue
0.3 km
A lifelike tribute to Michael Collins, capturing the spirit of Ireland’s revolutionary hero in the heart of Cork city.
Historic Buildings of Pope's Quay
0.3 km
Explore Cork's architectural heritage along the scenic River Lee at Pope's Quay, a vibrant hub of history and culture.
Crawford Art Gallery
0.3 km
Discover the artistic treasures of Crawford Art Gallery in Cork, where history and contemporary creativity converge in a stunning cultural experience.
Cork Historic Walking Tours
0.3 km
Discover Cork’s layered history on foot with a local guide, from medieval streets to modern markets in the heart of Ireland’s second city.
Cork Ghost Tour
0.4 km
Experience Cork's haunted history with a thrilling walking tour that blends ghostly tales, historical facts, and comedic frights.
Essential places to dine
Tony's Bistro
0.0 km
Cork's beloved mafia-themed bistro serving generous Irish breakfasts and creative lunch fare in a warm, family-run setting.
Cornstore Cork
0.1 km
Discover the best of modern European cuisine at Cornstore Cork - where every dish tells a story of flavor and freshness.
Brick Lane
0.1 km
Experience Cork's culinary delights at Brick Lane – where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality in a lively grill and bar setting.
The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega
0.1 km
A lively gastropub in Cork’s heart, famed for its vast whiskey range, traditional music, and welcoming atmosphere.
The SpitJack Cork
0.1 km
Award-winning rotisserie brasserie in Cork City offering locally sourced meats, innovative brunch, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Liberty Grill
0.1 km
A vibrant New England-inspired eatery in Cork city centre, serving fresh, locally sourced brunch, lunch, and dinner with vegan and vegetarian options.
51 Cornmarket
0.1 km
Experience fresh, seasonal Irish cuisine in the heart of Cork’s historic Cornmarket Street at 51 Cornmarket.
The Woodford
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cork city centre offering fresh food, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine
0.2 km
Discover refined Japanese flavors and natural wines in a lively, casual bistro setting at Ichigo Ichie, Cork’s celebrated culinary gem.
Dwyers of Cork
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Dwyers of Cork – where delicious food meets live music in a welcoming gastropub atmosphere.
The Oyster Tavern
0.2 km
Discover Cork’s culinary treasure at The Oyster Tavern – where fresh seafood meets vibrant flavors in an inviting atmosphere.
The Linen Weaver - JD Wetherspoon
0.2 km
A lively three-floor pub in Cork’s city centre blending traditional Irish charm with modern dining and a rooftop beer garden.
Amicus
0.3 km
Contemporary grill dining in a historic 19th-century warehouse at the heart of Cork’s vibrant city centre.
Koto
0.3 km
Discover vibrant Asian street food and warm hospitality in the heart of Cork City at Koto Asian Kitchen & Bar.
Strasbourg Goose Restaurant
0.3 km
A cozy Cork city restaurant blending authentic Irish flavors with warm hospitality and excellent value dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Handcrafts Cork
0.0 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and baby clothing at Handcrafts Cork, the perfect place for memorable souvenirs in the heart of Cork.
Agora
0.0 km
Discover unique Irish-crafted homewares and gifts in a welcoming boutique at Cork’s vibrant city centre.
MrPRICE Cork City
0.1 km
Explore MrPRICE Cork City for unbeatable deals on fashion, home essentials, and unique finds, all in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
St Anthony Stores
0.1 km
A cherished family-run religious goods shop in Cork’s heart, offering spiritual treasures and a deep connection to local heritage.
Casa Craft
0.1 km
Discover unique fashion and artisan homeware at Casa Craft, Cork’s vibrant boutique in the heart of the city.
Peacock & Ruby
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and unique style stories at Peacock & Ruby, Cork’s beloved boutique on Cornmarket Street.
The Cornmarket Centre
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant shopping scene at The Cornmarket Centre in Cork, where diverse shops and delightful dining await every visitor.
Primetime Streetwear
0.1 km
Explore Primetime Streetwear in Cork for the latest trendy clothing and accessories that embody unique urban styles.
St Augustine's Shop
0.2 km
Cork's specialist religious goods shop, serving pilgrims and seekers of spiritual artifacts since the early 20th century.
The Retro Workshop Cork
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at The Retro Workshop Cork, a cozy boutique in the heart of Cork city.
Paul Street Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Explore Cork's bustling Paul Street Shopping Centre, where diverse shops meet delightful dining and local culture, perfect for every traveler.
Søstrene Grene Cork
0.2 km
Experience the eclectic charm of Søstrene Grene Cork, where creativity meets unique home decor and art supplies in a delightful shopping adventure.
The English Market
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Ireland at The English Market in Cork, a culinary destination filled with fresh local produce and artisan delights.
My Cork Gifts
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish souvenirs at My Cork Gifts, a charming shop in Cork that captures the essence of Ireland with every unique item.
Vibes & Scribes Bookshop
0.3 km
Explore Vibes & Scribes Bookshop in Cork: a charming destination for book lovers, rare finds, and unique gifts!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Black Dog
0.0 km
A dynamic cocktail bar and taqueria in Cork’s city centre, blending authentic Mexican cuisine with alternative music vibes.
The Raven Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Irish cuisine at The Raven Bar in Cork, a must-visit pub for tourists and locals alike.
Impala
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Impala in Cork, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
The Liberty Bar X Resistance
0.1 km
A spirited Cork pub where Irish history meets craft cocktails, live music, and lively community vibes in an industrial-chic setting.
Edison
0.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar on Washington Street offering expertly crafted drinks in Cork’s lively city centre.
The Alibi Bar + Kitchen
0.2 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and tapas kitchen in Cork city centre with lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and welcoming beer garden.
The Silly Goose
0.2 km
A lively Cork bar and grill blending traditional charm with modern flair, famed for grilled delights, craft drinks, and weekend live music.
Mutton Lane Inn
0.3 km
Experience the heart of Cork at Mutton Lane Inn, a historic pub serving traditional Irish drinks and vibrant local culture.
An Bróg Bar + Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of An Bróg Bar + Kitchen, Cork's premier Irish pub offering delicious food, DJ nights, and a welcoming vibe.
Popscene Late Bar & Club
0.3 km
A lively late-night venue on Oliver Plunkett Street blending 80s tunes with a welcoming atmosphere for all ages in the heart of Cork.
Le Chateau
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at Le Chateau, Cork's premier bar for relaxation and entertainment.
The Thomond Bar
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Cork's nightlife at The Thomond Bar, where authentic Irish culture meets delicious food and live entertainment.
The Hi-B Bar
0.5 km
Step into The Hi-B Bar, a cozy 1920s Cork pub where tradition, live music, and heartfelt conversation create an unforgettable Irish experience.
Old Oak
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Cork at Old Oak, where traditional Irish hospitality meets delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
No.76
0.6 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue blending modern style with historic charm in the heart of Cork City.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly