Inside Ember: Fire, Flavour and Feeling with Head Chef Jonathan Webster
Located within the Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel, part of the Inua Collection, Ember is a dining experience that goes beyond what’s on the plate. In the heart of Kilkenny city, Ember has become a go-to destination for those seeking modern Irish dining shaped by fire, flavour and atmosphere.
From the moment you arrive at the Hibernian Hotel, Ember sets the tone for an experience built around warmth, connection, and a sense of occasion.
We sat down with Head Chef Jonathan Webster to explore the philosophy behind Ember’s menus, the role of fire in the kitchen, and what keeps guests coming back.
A Dining Experience That Feels as Good as It Tastes
From the outside, Ember feels inviting. Step inside, and that feeling deepens.
“At Ember, it’s not just about the food but the whole atmosphere,” says Jonathan.
The restaurant has been designed to feel warm, relaxed, and welcoming, without formality. It’s a space where guests can unwind: whether it’s a casual dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion. Every detail, from the interiors to the service style, is built around one idea:
bringing people together through food.
At the heart of it all is a simple goal: to ensure every guest leaves feeling looked after, and already planning their return.
Seasonality, Local Produce and Global Influence
Reflecting the Inua Collection’s dedication to quality and experience, Ember focuses on seasonal ingredients and carefully sourced local produce.
“Seasonal ingredients and local suppliers are at the heart of what we do,” Jonathan explains.
Menus are shaped by what’s fresh, available, and at its best. But there’s another layer that makes Ember stand out.
The kitchen team brings together chefs from different backgrounds, each contributing their own perspective. The result is a menu that feels both locally grounded and globally inspired, with carefully balanced flavours in every dish.
Cooking with Fire: The Heart of Ember
Fire isn’t just a technique at Ember: it’s a defining element. From slow cooking and braising to grilling and roasting, each method is chosen to enhance flavour and create depth.
This approach gives Ember its distinctive identity:
- Rich, smoky notes
- Bold, satisfying flavours
- A sense of theatre in the cooking process
It’s food that feels elemental, honest, and deeply satisfying.
Keeping the Menu Fresh and Exciting
Balancing innovation with guest favourites is key.
“We know there are certain dishes people come back for,” Jonathan says. “But we’re always introducing new ideas to keep things exciting.”
Seasonal menu updates ensure there’s always something new to discover, while signature dishes remain for returning guests.
One standout experience is Sunday lunch, designed with sharing and comfort in mind. The Roast Sharing Platter is a favourite for families and groups, featuring:
- Classic roast meats
- Traditional trimmings
- House-made gravy
It’s a relaxed, generous way to enjoy a Sunday: exactly as it should be.
Designed for Sharing and Social Dining
Sharing is central to the Ember experience. The menu encourages guests to order together, taste widely, and enjoy the moment collectively.
The highlight? The Meat Sharing Platter. This dish showcases a variety of meats, each prepared using different cooking techniques:
- Overnight cooking
- Braising
- Roasting
- Frying
It’s an experience in itself, perfect for those who want to explore the full range of flavours Ember has to offer.
What to Order on Your First Visit
If it’s your first time dining at Ember, Jonathan has a few recommendations:
To Start
Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Slow-cooked overnight and finished with a rich BBQ glaze.
For Mains
Meat Sharing Platter
Available for one or two people, ideal for sampling a variety of dishes.
For Dessert
Black Forest Gateau (Ember Style)
A creative take on a classic, served in a flower pot with layered textures and flavours.
With summer approaching, Ember is preparing to launch a new seasonal menu, bringing fresh ideas and vibrant flavours to the table. It’s the perfect time to rediscover Ember, or experience it for the first time!
Book your table today and experience Ember for yourself.