Sika brings new life to old venue in the heart of Blarney

Sika brings new life to old venue

 in the heart of Blarney.

Chicken Burger (17.50)

Sika, the relatively new café in Blarney, is superbly located in the heart of the old village, within walking distance of Blarney Castle and the Woollen Mills. Even motorists on the nearby Cork-Limerick road can make a short detour for breakfast or lunch.

Patio

While there is a new team at Sika, the venue itself has been used for quite a while as a café under different names and before that, it served as the local post office. Sika, from Thursday to Saturday, morphs into a wine bar (with small plates), and there may well be music from time to time as was the case for Brunch last Saturday week, when The Loungeman entertained.

Work in progress

Sika has two areas. First, you enter a small permanent room with a row of tables opposite the counter and kitchen. From here, you may step into the large covered patio (the former garden area), which now has winter decorations and various lights. The patio, especially by night when the wine flows and the music plays, looks like a great place for groups. 

But it comes with a caveat from the management: “Our patio is partially heated, but we recommend bringing an extra layer as it can still be chilly outside!” Some of the seating is very much on the hard side, and a few cushions wouldn’t go astray.

Chicken Salad (15.50)

Chef Aodh promises local and seasonal food, well cooked and neatly presented. I didn't make it for breakfast yet, but I found the lunch menu much along the usual lines. He has a classic burger, but the Sika Chicken Burger (€17.50) is a little bit different. 

Apple Tart (8.50)

The chef’s description is this: “Try our Sika Chicken Burger, featuring perfectly Southern-fried chicken topped with Monterey cheese and zesty Asian slaw, our signature hot sauce, and a touch of roasted garlic aioli. Nestled in a brioche bun, this burger packs a flavourful punch in every bite.” That was my pick during a recent visit, and the plate returned empty!

They also offer a soup and sandwich deal if you are in a hurry. We didn't try the sandwiches, but they are quite proud of their salads, and that selection includes one of our dishes, the Sticky Lemon and Thyme Chicken Salad. In addition, they have a Roasted Broccoli and Feta Salad, as well as a Caesar Salad. There is no shortage of pizzas either, and there is also a menu for the kids. It is family-friendly (and dogs can come too).