Training Example: The Laurels Pub – Review the Data, Give Your Score & Compare to the Real AI Evaluation

Main St, Killarney, Co.Kerry, Ireland
+353 (0)64 6631149

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[H2] DiscoverOur Story
The Laurels Pub… it’s a traditionThe Laurels is a wonderful traditional Killarney pub which has been run by the O’Leary family through 4 generations for over a century, and little has changed in that time.
Tiled floors and beamed ceilings, lots of alcoves and dimly lit corners, friendly and attentive staff, all contribute to the charm of The Laurels.
[IMG: The Laurels and 40 Main]
[H2] Our pub and its name origin has an interesting history.
LEARN MORE HERE
[H2] Foodat The Laurels
[H2] Just some of the fabulous hearty dishes we offer
all prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients
[IMG: BBQ Pizza]
[IMG: Chick Pea Curry]

[H2] Meet our Team here at The Laurels

[H5] Margaret
[H5] Debbie
[H5] Emanuel
[H5] Noeleen
[H5] Denis
[H5] Jamie
[H5] Agnes

[H2] See what our visitors say about us

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Food and service are always excellent.
I recommend this Bar / restaurant to anyone who likes good food coupled with good service.
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Y651HVpeter 05/10/2025

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We had just gotten to Killarney and asked our host where we should eat. He suggested The Laurels, and he didn't steer us wrong. The beer was refreshing, and the... read more food was amazing.
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154kennye 03/10/2025

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Great pub atmosphere, food and service. Sat at the bar and had seafood chowder which was excellent. Bar service was great.
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jonzboyz 24/09/2025

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Short walk from our hotel. The pub was in a great location. I had the lamb shank and it was great. The cocktails were great also. The waiter was great,... read more always checking on our table. Would highly recommend for a drink and a meal.
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Craig C 19/09/2025

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Food was good, but the portions rather small. The desert was a joke, we ordered the crumble and it was completely soggy and a tiny piece - absolutely not worth... read more it. Service was good.
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Lu S 25/07/2025

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Husband and I chose this pub while visiting Killarney. We love authentic Irish food so this place really hit the spot.

When we walked in, we were told that... read more they didn’t have any tables left and they were completely full. There were a couple seats at the bar thankfully so we asked if we could sit there and eat, she said yes.

The two young guys behind the bar gave us some drinks quickly, waitress took our food order a few minutes later.

We decided to share the mini potato cakes (€8.95), which were pretty much mashed potatoes mixed with chicken and bacon, and then covered in bread crumbs and fried. It was covered in a mushroom creme sauce which was really good, with a small salad on the side (if you can call it that, it was really a couple pieces of lettuce, a single grape tomato and a drizzle of dressing)

My husband got the fish and chips (€17.70) which honestly was probably the best fish and chips he’s had so far during our trip. I was a little jealous of his food after I tried some of his. The fish was almost melt-in-your-mouth quality. Soooo good. I would go back just to eat that fish again.

I got the spinach and ricotta ravioli (€20.95) which came with a tomato and basil crème sauce, some garlic bread, and a handful of arugula on top. The pasta itself tasted good (jealous of the fish!) but the garlic bread was so crispy (not burnt) that it was almost too hard to chew. The dish would have been fine without the ‘salad garnish’.

The only thing I would point out is that obviously the pub is very busy, and it didn’t look like they had an ample amount of seating, but they must have turned away at least 20-30 people because the back of the pub was closed (due to a large party maybe?) and they just couldn’t find a place for those people to sit. So I guess we got there at just the right time?

Whatever - I would still go back JUST for the fish and chips ❤️
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Rachel3215 24/07/2025

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We enjoyed dinner at The Laurels. There was something on the menu for everyone. We started with the potato cakes. The mushroom sauce was delicious. I had fish in a... read more red curry sauce for my entree. The fish was cooked perfectly and the sauce had good flavor, although I wished it was a little spicier. My husband had the lamb stew. He said it was good, however the sauce was thin. He would have liked it thick. 2 people had the fish and chips and 1 had the lamb shank and all really liked them.
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SeeTheW0rld62 06/07/2025

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We stopped in for dinner and it did not disappoint. It was late so we opted for the appetizer of potato pancakes and it was delicious. Then my wife and... read more I each had a bowl of seafood chowder. It was great along with the bread. So much seafood, we probably could have done the bow and been fine.
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Eric F 27/06/2025

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I had the baked hake and it was really tasty. Enjoyed a delicious baileys coffee after dinner in a lovely cosy atmosphere ?
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Corkgal0704/02/2024

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Nice ,bar and restaurant, great food and amazing staff,love this place always feel welcome here ,nice and central in Killarney.
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Tony S19/01/2024

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The food is really good and the lad behind the bar was very friendly and efficient. But a pet hate of mine is when the waitress stands near your table... read more waiting for you to finish so that she can ask " can I take your plate and would you like desert " I politely told her if they were short of plates she could take it.
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Mikejoe C18/01/2024

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We were on our way home from Dingle so stopped off for some lunch, haven't been into the laurels for years, so glad we called in. So so friendly we... read more only had soup and sandwich soup and fries but the sandwich was delicious and the soup was so tasty it was freezing that day so ws very much welcomed price wise very good portion size sandwich was as it should be some places charge more nd the sandwich isn't toasted properly and the bread is half the size so The laurels is the place to go for all hot meals as well they looked amazing. Staff were helpful, friendly and nothing too much trouble. Will be going back soon.
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BingeBaby11/01/2024

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Just wonderful!!!! staff very attentive never had to wait for anything Food out of this world cooked and seasoned perfectly. Friendly atmosphere. Special mention to Kieron rembers his past customers... read more asks about there day makes them laugh and feel welcome ......he's a keeper. Definitely be backxxx
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joannetY3962JA05/12/2023

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We were a family of 7 adults that had made reservations a few weeks ahead of time. The staff were very friendly, and we received good service. Everyone really enjoyed... read more their meals. Husband and I had the potato cakes and a few drinks. My sister had the seafood chowder which was probably the best we have had in our travels in Ireland. It was so good, that we went back the next day for lunch specifically to have the chowder. However, it did not taste nearly as good as the night before. Not sure why that would be, but it was the case. Overall, we would go back, and do recomment the Laurels.
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Coreen15/11/2023

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Amazing food and wonderful service!! The fish and chips were great and the toffy pudding was delicious. The service made you feel at home and part of the family. We... read more visited this place twice. Would recommend this place!!
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Tourist72874012/10/2023

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The food was good. Though, when the waitress brought our tab to us she presented it with the comment for us to enter a tip for her. I felt that... read more was out-of-line. We do add a tip, without being told to add the tip. She was just okay as a waitress.
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Ireta J04/10/2023

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We had a large reservation for a party of 24 at The Laurels pub and had an amazing experience. They arranged for all of us to sit together at a... read more spacious table and had everything prepared flawlessly upon our arrival. The staff were truly outstanding, with everyone being remarkably quick and attentive to our needs. Despite the large group, everything flowed seamlessly, leaving all of us very pleased. The food was absolutely delicious, arriving promptly for each member of our party.

Our evening was a wonderful blend of great food, impeccable service, and a cozy atmosphere. I can't recommend this pub enough – it's truly a gem. Cheers to The Laurels!
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Jalicia L22/09/2023

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The Laurel’s did not disappoint. The pics you see of the fish and chips are true! Absolutely delish and piping hot. Our group also had the lamb shank, the seafood... read more chowder and the deep fried Brie bites. All were fabulous. Great service and nice atmosphere. It’s a must!
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carol p08/09/2023

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Wonderful meal and even better gf dessert options! We went to the Laurel’s Pub on the recommendation of a few people - they did not lead us astray! Our meals... read more were wonderful and there were plenty of gf options! Thank you for wonderful service, food and atmosphere!
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mnjul06/09/2023

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Had an excellent visit to this premises to celebrate my brother's Stag party. The staff were brilliant, nothing was an issue for them even when I had to make small... read more changes to the numbers in our group close to our visit. When I made a last minute request for a table with a few of a big screen so our group could watch an Irish rugby match, this was accommodated.

The food, premises, staff and atmosphere here was excellent . We will definitely be back. Thanks again, Brian
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Brian M24/08/2023

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Great food, great service, great atmosphere. No wonder the place is packed. The Irish Stew is fantastic. Thank you
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Aiden O12/08/2023

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Lively pub with food. We went for dinner on a Monday evening. The place was busy but a staff member quickly had us seated. Opted for the nachos to share... read more as a starter and the potato cakes as main course washed down with a couple of pints of draft Murphys. All very good. Decent, lively atmosphere and good staff
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Ken N03/08/2023

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Lively pub with food. We went for dinner on a Monday evening. The place was busy but a staff member quickly had us seated. Opted for the nachos to share... read more as a starter and the potato cakes as main course washed down with a couple of pints of draft Murphys. All very good. Decent, lively atmosphere and good staff
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J8804FJkenn03/08/2023

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We had an amazing dinner and a really fun time here! Highly recommend for families with teens looking for a delicious dinner and fabulous overall experience. Would recommend reservations as... read more well!
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Erin H30/06/2023

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Very nice dinner here,my husband loved the Irish Stew and they where very accommodating to picky children's orders so that made it very nice and enjoyable for us all. Very... read more nice atmosphere all staff we met where very nice.
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Wander29412828/06/2023

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Fish and chips! Service! Beer selection and fun atmosphere. Appeared to offer live music but we moved on. While its a busy beer pub, we didn't feel crowded and could... read more carry a conversation without raising our voices. Get a reservation though! Group of golfers at tables next to us.. and three young local couples, celebrating a birthday... plus tourists like us!
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4PSU22/06/2023

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Lively pub on the Main Street in town. Lots of tourists but that was ok! Everyone is a friend here. The staff were cheerful and super efficient. The food was... read more solid. We enjoyed the traditional potato cakes and the lamb stew.
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Cynthia G16/06/2023

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Food is so tasty (roast crown of chicken with rich gravy). Noeleen was a very friendly member of staff.
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June c02/06/2023

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Stopped in for a quick bite on a recent Friday night. No wait because we were early, the place was much more crowded when we were leaving. Great ambiance (we... read more were on the pub side) inside and the staff is very welcoming. We sampled: the fried Brie (excellent), the pizza (very good) and the bacon cheeseburger (excellent). Service was great throughout the meal. Highly recommend!!
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kevinv87702/06/2023

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Really friendly and helpful staff. Very very good food - Lamb Shank was the best I’ve ever had. We had a really lovely evening. Thank you.
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361benedictp28/05/2023

[H2] Latest News from The Laurels

Are you ready to answer the call? Who are you invi
[IMG: Are you ready to answer the call? Who are you inviting to join you? We’re open at 12:30 for lunch and dinner. ?️ #dinekillarney #thelaurels #lovekillarney]

Ready for a Super Sunday #thelaurels #dinekillarne
[IMG: Ready for a Super Sunday #thelaurels #dinekillarney #thelaurelspub #lovekillarney #livesport]

Happy Saturday !! Let's get this weekend started w
[IMG: Happy Sat

Main St, Killarney, Co.Kerry, Ireland
+353 (0)64 6631149

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[IMG: The Back Yard at The Laurels]
[H2] Sunshine,sips, and good times
Welcome to The Back Yard at The Laurels Whether you’re catching up with friends over a few pints, soaking up some sun with a spritz in hand, or just want to unwind in the fresh air, The Back Yard has you covered.

[H2] What to Expect:
Outdoor Bar: All your favourite drinks served fresh from our bar.
Heated & Covered Areas: Irish weather? We’ve planned for that.
Dog-Friendly: Bring your four-legged mates along; they’ll love it too.

[H3] Perfect For:
After-work drinks
Weekend chill-outs
Private hires & garden parties
Summer birthdays and celebrations
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[H4] Whether it’s sunny skies or starry nights, The Back Yard is your local escape without leaving the pub. Come find your spot, grab a drink, and make yourself at home.

[IMG: The Laurels Pub Killarney - Make a reservation]
[H2] Makea Reservation
Email us on reservations@thelaurelspub.com
or
Call us on +353 (0)64 6631149

© Copyright 2025 The Laurels. All rights reserved. Website by Kingdom Media.

Main St, Killarney, Co.Kerry, Ireland
+353 (0)64 6631149

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[H2] TheLaurels History
“None can beat the Kingdom sweet for Horse or Hound or Man”
These lines come from a 50 year-old ballad written to commemorate Kerry’s football victory over Roscommon. And, indeed, down through the last century there have been no shortage of famous Kerry sports personalities. However, when it comes to horses and hounds, their victories haven’t been as well recorded
This is the story of one such victory, of a greyhound who bought fame and fortune to Thado Leary, a Killarney publican and sportsman. Thado was well-known in sporting circles as the owner of many good dogs and as a co-founder of the Killarney Race Course.
Around 1928, he approached Moss Lawlor, a friend and fellow breeder of greyhounds, for the use of a dog to service his bitch, Clicker Lass, Moss gave him the service of his best dog, The Loafer. The fee agreed was that Moss Lawlor would get the pick of whatever litter ensued.
Thado’s son, Con O’Leary, takes up the story, “Just after the litter was born, Moss Lawlor was on his way to Kenmare from Tralee and called in to see both my father and the litter. He chose the pup that was eventually to be called Kilbrean Boy. Later on that night, he called back to pick the pup.”
“Thado already had the pup in a box and put him into the boot of Moss Lawlor’s car. Moss drove home that night and put the pup into the shed. The next morning when he came out to feed him, he saw the dog and thought that for some reason reason he looked different to the ones he had chosen. He laughed and cursed himself for having one too many with his friend in Killarney.”
After winning many local stakes, Kilbrean Boy was sent to Wimbledon to be trained by Sydney Orton. Sydney, regarded as one of the all time greats among greyhound trainers and celebrated for the training of the legendary Mick The Miller, brought Kilbrean Boy to the winning of the West Ham Cup and Wimbledon Plate.
In 1930, Orton had the fortune to have trained three dogs who reached the final of the first ever Wimbledon ‘Laurels’ race. This was the richest prize to that date and, as the sports historian, Finbarr Slattery suggests, maybe the richest ever. The owner of the winning dog would receive £1,232 and a gold trophy worth £100.
This amounts to approximately a quarter of a million pounds in today’s terms. However, Orton, the dog’s own trainer, doubted Kilbrean Boy’s chances of scooping any prize. Before the race, he reported to Thado Leary that, of the three dogs that he had in training for “Laurels”, Kilbrean Boy always came last.
Con recalls, “The story that my mother related to me was that Thado disregarded his advice and went to London. Before he left and because the dog was at such long odds, he promised the locals and his greyhound cronies that he would put up timber barrels of Guinness as a victory celebration after the race.”
“Since we had no telephone at the time, the arrangement was that he would phone the result of the Sewell’s, a pharmacy on the street corner opposite us. Crowds began to gather outside of the doors of both the pub and the pharmacy that evening waiting for a result. Some smart guy got access to another telephone in town and phone Sewell’s Pharmacy.”
“Pretending he was from London, he said the dog had won and to give out the Guinness. And by the time my father phoned after the race with the real news, they already had drank the first barrel.”
The victory should be viewed in the spirit of the time. The country was then only eight years independent and it was a huge achievement for an Irish dog to go over to London and win against the best of the British dogs.
Sydney Orton in his interview with The News of the World newspaper, told how to his surprise Kilbrean boy shot out of the traps first and increased his lead to win the race by six lengths. He said, “I had the three winning dogs in the race. They swept the board clean, taking £2,000 in prizes between them, I stood there propping up the stand, unable to fully realise it. It was one of the biggest days of my life, and the thrill so great as to almost paralysing.”
Unfortunately for the great trainer his dogs finished in the wrong order. “If Clandown Sweep had won,” he said, “I was on £500. If Toftwood Misery had, I was on £600. If my other dog, Kilbrean Boy, won, as he did, I was on exactly nothing!”
Thado Leary, however, followed his luck and £50 on the Boy who was ‘out with the wash-rags’, as they said, at 10-to-1. The Kerryman newspaper said that “on his return they shouldered Thado through the town, lit bonfires and celebrated till early hours of the morning.”
Many years later, Con O’Leary took over the family business after his father’s death. To mark his father’s great achievement, he changed the name of the pub to “The Laurels“.
Con recalls that in 1980 he got a letter from the chairman of Wimbledon Stadium asking if he would consider selling back the trophy. Con, however, had no intention of letting such an heirloom out of the family. Shortly after, he spoke to a man called Kennedy who happened to in the bar one day.
The man looked behind the counter and saw the golden trophy and asked if it was the English ‘Laurels’ to which Con replied that it was. On a closer look he realised that it was the first trophy. “Two years ago“, he said, “I was at a reception in Wimbledon Stadium and they had 49 ‘Laurels’ trophies on display and the only one that was missing was the first one.“

© Copyright 2025 The Laurels. All rights reserved. Website by Kingdom Media.

Main St, Killarney, Co.Kerry, Ireland
+353 (0)64 6631149

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

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© Copyright 2025 The Laurels. All rights reserved. Website by Kingdom Media.

Main St, Killarney, Co.Kerry, Ireland
+353 (0)64 6631149

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

[IMG: The Laurels Pub]

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[IMG: The Laurels Pub Killarney Baseball Cap - Black - front view]
[H2] The Laurels Pub Killarney Baseball Cap
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[IMG: The Laurels Pub & Restaurant T-Shirt (front)]
[H2] The Laurels Pub Killarney T-Shirt
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© Copyright 2025 The Laurels. All rights reserved. Website by Kingdom Media.