East Room Restaurant

The story

East Room Restaurant, Limerick: Modern Cuisine in a Historic House

A Room with History

The East Room Restaurant occupies the formal dining room of Plassey House, a Georgian mansion that has been at the centre of Limerick life for more than two centuries. For generations it was where the Maunsell and Russell families entertained; later, in the 1970s, it became the first lecture theatre of what is now the University of Limerick. Today, it has returned to its original purpose: a place for fine dining, recognised by the Michelin Guide for 2026.

The house itself is a treasure. Italianate in style, it sits within the university campus and houses significant art collections — the National Self Portrait Collection of Ireland, the Armitage Collection, and works by Mainie Jellett, Jack B. Yeats and others. Diners are welcome to view them before or after their meal.

Seasonal, Local, Hand-Forged

The kitchen’s philosophy is straightforward: follow the seasons and champion the local area. “Our energy is drawn from our astonishing raw produce, and deep rooted connectedness to the region,” the team explains. They work only with the freshest artisanal produce, locally grown and hand-foraged, at the peak of its season. This is modern cuisine that lets the ingredients speak, grounded in the fields and shores of the region.

The Dining Experience

Despite the grandeur of the setting, the atmosphere is relaxed. “We wish for the restaurant to be a relaxed experience showcasing the true warmth of Irish hospitality,” they say. You might begin with a cocktail in the Boardroom, then move to the East Room for lunch or dinner. There are also private dining rooms for a more intimate gathering.

The drinks list is equally considered. Hand-selected wines from small-scale, progressive wineries sit alongside artisan spirits and house-made cocktails (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic). The team is happy to offer personal recommendations, and a corkage option allows you to bring a special bottle for a flat fee.

The East Room is a place where history and modern cooking meet, where the grandeur of the past is matched by the warmth of the present — and where the best of Limerick’s larder is treated with the respect it deserves.