Christmas in the City: What's new in Cork this Christmas?
Since this time last year, a host of new businesses have opened their doors in Cork city meaning this Christmas will be full of new offerings for shoppers and those in search of some well deserved merriment.
Just last month, the great news that HMV will returning to Cork’s high street delighted shoppers, especially those who have missed its presence on Patrick Street since it closed in 2013. The brand has reportedly promised to open its new store in Merchant’s Quay just in time for Christmas.
In another welcome addition to Patrick Street, US lifestyle retailer Urban Outfitters opened its doors in September with a bang, launching the brand’s second Irish store with a stylish party to the pumping tunes of DJ Tara Kumar. The new store is at 101 Patrick Street, between the Gentleman’s Quarters and the new Dunnes’.
Earlier in the year, UK clothing brands Seasalt Cornwall and Mountain Warehouse both opened for business in Cork city centre. Sustainable fashion outlet Seasalt Cornwall set up shop at 86 Patrick Street while outdoor clothing specialists Mountain Warehouse took over the former Top Shop location on Opera Lane.
On Washington Street, a well-known drinking spot has reopened with a whole new look and vibe, transforming what was once a beloved haunt for rock and roll lovers to a more traditional and cosy affair. Ó Súilleabháin Bar is already open for business where Preachers used to stand and is a sister bar to The Liberty on South Main Street.
In new Leeside food offerings, summer 2025 saw the arrival of Soul to 37 Washington Street, a rustic, southern fusion restaurant blending food from the USA’s southern states with Irish cuisine. Why not pop across for a pint in Ó Súilleabháin Bar afterwards for a digestive stout?
Over in the Marina Market, the folks behind the award-winning Indian restaurant Delhi2Dublin are set to open Delhi2Cork in the coming weeks. Hungry customers can expect delicious authentic Indian dishes with a twist, blending tradition with innovation.
A bit outside the city centre, we couldn’t go without mentioning the new Catch of the Day chipper now up and running at the former site of the beloved and dearly missed Lennox’s on Bandon Road. Students and locals alike will be delighted to once again be greeted by the comforting smell of hot chips cooking on a frigid winter’s day.
As of October, the chipper will be staying open until the later time of 10pm – perfect for grabbing a late bite after a day’s shopping in the city.