There are few Irish treats that unite the Irish more than the beloved 99 Ice Cream Cone.
With its crisp wafer, creamy vanilla soft-serve and signature Cadbury Flake, the 99 has earned legendary status as Ireland’s ultimate indulgence.
For generations, this simple cone has been a symbol of sunshine, seaside road trips and nostalgic childhood memories. Whether it’s after a walk on the beach, a pit stop during a scenic drive or just an excuse to savour something sweet, the 99 holds a special place in Irish hearts.
In this post, I’m celebrating the magic of the 99 and sharing my top 10 places to get the best 99 cones in Kerry. The perfect guide for anyone craving a taste of Irish summer, or curious to try this creamy classic for the first time.
The 99 machine is usually fired up all year round so it’s not unusual to enjoy a cone during the depths of winter in the middle of November. It’s always a good time for a cone.
- C Healy’s, New Street, Killarney – Perfection! A large, heavy serving of ice cream with the perfect swirl and the freshest cone. Experience matters – the friendly chat and a bit of craic while waiting for your cone always sweetens the deal.
- Sheahan’s Centra, College Street, Killarney – A fine heavy cone and generous portion. A good 99 holds its shape and stays cool long enough to enjoy. This one always hits the mark.
- Hegarty’s, Muckross Road, Killarney – The ice cream here is luxuriously creamy with a smooth texture and just the right balance of sweetness – not icy, not gritty. The serve is large which we always like to see.
- Daly’s Supervalu, Killarney – Always served in a fresh crispy cone with a real crumbly and chocolatey Cadbury Flake (not an imitation). Never a stingy portion and always beautifully creamy.
- Walsh’s Supervalu, Cahersiveen – Big in the portion stakes and a firm favourite for us. The price to delight ration is bang on.
- Benson’s Quick Pick, Inch – An unassuming local shop serving up absolutely banging cones that are creamy, perfectly soft and huge to boot! Pull in after a trip to Inch Beach for the perfect end to your day.
- Christian’s Mace, Sneem – An ice cream tastes better when you’re standing on a Kerry beach, beside a mountain lake or strolling through a lovely town. The surroundings of charming Sneem definitely add to the flavour of this already top quality 99.
- PK’s Supervalu, Killorglin – They continuously tick very important 99 boxes here! Rich and creamy vanilla, a fresh cone, the perfect swirl and a generous portion. Plenty of optional extra’s in PK’s but we always go for the classic.
- O’Connell’s Foodstore (Deo’s), Portmagee – People rave about this place and for good reason. The portions are large and the cool perfectly blended ice cream is always presented beautifully and with a smile. Worth the drive!
- Fogarty’s Centra, Waterville – Enjoy a mighty 99 of fresh, soft creaminess with a view every bit as epic as the generous portion.
Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or discovering the joy of your very first 99, one thing’s for sure, the humble cone has a way of making life just that little bit sweeter.
So next time you’re in Kerry, pop into one our favourite places and treat yourself to a swirl, a Flake, and a moment to remember.