Galway – A Visitors’ Guide – Where to Eat

Posted on May 6, 2013 by

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So now that you have decided to visit Galway and booked your accommodation, you need to figure out where to eat whilst you are here.  Galway has so many great and varied restaurants, it can be difficult to know where to start.

Fine Dining?

There are many “Fine Dining” restaurants in the city.  There is one Michelin Starred restaurant – Aniar.  (See separate post on this site). This is a small restaurant so if you plan to visit, you will most certainly need to book in advance, particularly if you wish to visit on a weekend night.  The restaurant now has a new Head Chef – welcome Ultan Cooke!   www.aniarrestaurant.ie

Slip Sole for Main Course at Aniar.

Slip Sole for Main Course at Aniar.

If you like Fish, then you really must visit O’Grady’s on the Pier in Barna (again, see separate post on this site).  The restaurant is easily accessible from the city centre by car or taxi and is well worth the trip.  It really is one of the best restaurants in the Galway area and its setting on the beach at Barna is truly magical. www.ogradysonthepier.com

Sea Bass with Roast Potato and Chorizo at O'Gradys, Barna.

Sea Bass with Roast Potato and Chorizo at O’Gradys, Barna.

If you can’t make it out to Barna, then you should try Michael O’Grady’s other restaurant Kirwan’s Lane situated in the City Centre.  The restaurant has recently been refurbished and The Seafood Bar @ Kirwans really easy a beautiful place to enjoy a casual lunch, a romantic dinner or a special celebration. Whilst the menu has a focus on fresh fish, there is also a good selection of dishes from the grill, including Pork Belly, Chicken, Duckling and steaks.  www.kirwanslane.com

Another restaurant well worth a visit is Artisan, located right in the heart of Quay Street, overhead Tigh Neachtains pub.  There is a lovely atmosphere in this small restuarant and from many tables you get a really good view of the hustle and bustle of Quay Street/High Street.  The a la carte menu is well balanced with many fish and meat favourites featuring and the execution of the dishes is excellent.  www.artisangalway.com

Kai Cafe & Restaurant is located on Sea Road, Galway – just a short walk from Galway’s “West End” but no more than a 10 minute walk in total from the centre of the City.  The setting of this restaurant is utterly beautiful and you are bound to enjoy Jess Murphy’s wonderful dishes.  www.kairestaurant.com

Another favourite of mine is Oscars Bistro.  This restaurant is located on Dominick Street Lower and again is only a short walk from the city centre.  The restaurant specialises in seafood but really caters for all tastes.  The menu is continually changing depending on the season and to cater for daily market catches.  The restaurant itself is rather quirky and the food presentation is fantastic.  Enjoy!  www.oscarsbistro.ie

Something more casual?

If you are looking for something a little more casual, then you really have to visit Il Vicolo Cafe (see also separate post on this site).  This small italian cafe and wine bar may very well be my favourite spot to visit in Galway.  The dishes are superbly cooked and presented and the atmosphere is second to none.  The passion the staff have for the restaurant is clear in everything they do.  It really is a joy to be in Il Vicolo.  Their website is not up and running yet, but you can find them on facebook or give them a call on +353 91 535922.

If you fancy so really top quality pub grub, then Eat at Massimo Gastro Pub is for you.  Massimo is located on William Street West, close to Dominick street in Galway and again is only a short walking distance from the city centre.  Menu staples include Steaks, Burgers, Pizzas, Chicken, Sandwiches, Salads and platters made to share.  www.eatgastropub.com

Eight Bar & Restaurant is located on Dock Road, Galway – just a stone’s throw from Quay Street.  This is another restaurant where the menu is changed to reflect fresh local ingredients and whose dishes never disappoint.  (see separate post on this site).  There is also a very good wine list with all wines available by the glass and a very good selection of craft beers.  www.eight.ie

Rouge Restaurant is a French Restaurant located in the ever popular Dominick Street area of Galway city centre  (see also separate post on this site).  This restaurant is so popular it is advised to book in advance.  There is a set menu and for E15 you get a starter selection and your choice of main course – either fish of the day, a steak or the vegetarian dish of day.  You also get your choice of potato or vegetable with that.  The quality of the food is great and the atmosphere is wonderful.  And why not also try Le Petit Rouge Wine Bar across the road!  www.rougegalway.com

If you dont need a full meal but wine, cheese and meats are your thing, then check out the wine bar at Sheridans. This Cheesemongers is located on Churchyard street in the city centre with an overhead wine bar.  www.sheridanscheesemongers.com

Coffee?

If you are just looking for coffee, tea and maybe cakes or a sandwich, then Galway also has much to offer.  Check out Goya’s on Kirwan’s Lane, Providence Market Kitchen on St Augustine Street, Revive on Eyre Street and on High St/Cross S, Cupan Tae at Spanish Arch, Arabica to mention but a few.  Or if you really want to splash out, why not have coffee at The G Hotel!

Salthill/Barna

If you are staying in Salthill, it also has much to offer in terms of restaurants.  Check out The Galleon, Gourmet Tart, Da Robertos or Black Cat.  Also there are many cafes including Arabica and Coco’s.

In Barna, in addition to the aforementioned O’Grady’s on the Pier you can enjoy the delights of Donnellys, Mulberrys or The Twelve Hotel all of which serve really good quality food. Or pop into The Coffee House in Barna for coffee and a cake or maybe a soup and a sandwich or a salad. If pizza is your thing, then Pizza Dozzina at The Twelve Hotel really do serve the best pizzas in the west.

Self Catering?

If you are self catering and fancy rustling up something special then check out McCambridges on Shop Street for some special ingredients and excellent wines.  Morton’s of Galway in Salthill is also excellent for meats, cheeses, salads, breads, cakes etc.  Their pesto is to die for.  You can also pick up some wonderful cakes, breads and tarts at Gourmet Tart in Salthill.

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The Galleon Restaurant, Salthill, Galway

Posted on May 6, 2013 by

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The Galleon Restaurant in Salthill, Galway has been serving satisfied customers for the past 45 years making it an absolute institution in Salthill.  There really is something for everyone on their extensive menu and they will cater for any dietary requirements.  The restaurant is very family friendly with young guests provided with pictures and crayons to play with whilst the adults eat and drink. The staff here are super friendly and if you have a “cupla focal” as Gaeilge, they will happily return the chat!  They also have a separate area to the back of the restaurant area which can be used as a function area, perfect for celebrating confirmation, communions etc.  And another real bonus – free wifi – well done guys!

As mentioned, the menu is extensive covering all meals from breakfast through to dinner or if you just want to pop in for a coffee and a scone, then that’s there too.

The menu is well priced with a list of daily specials available from 12pm to 5pm.  Main courses off this menu cost E10 and there is a good selection including a roast of the day, a fish dish of the day, Traditional Irish Lamb Stew, Bacon & Cabbage, Spaghetti Bolognese and a number of others.  You can have a main course and a starter for E14.50 and starters include soup, garlic bread and breaded mushrooms.

There are also evening specials available and a full a la carte menu with many fish dishes, chicken dishes, red meat dishes, salads and sandwiches not to mention desserts. There is also a separate Children’s menu.

Wine, spirits, beers and liquers are also available.

This is a great local restaurant which continues to please its customers with its varied, well priced menu and its true Galway hospitality.

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Principato – Pinot Grigio Blush

Posted on May 6, 2013 by

Principato

It’s a Pinot Grigio – but it’s Pink!

Background:

The Principato Pinot Grigio Blush is a light, crisp and refreshing Rose from the Vinezie wine region, Trentino, North West Italy.  Principato means Princely Realm in english and the winery began production in 1978 and is now one of the most popular and affordable Italian wines.

Description:

The short fermentation on the skin gives this modern Pinot Grigio a delicate pink, coppery colour.  It is a floral wine, with soft fruit characters with notes of peach and an off dry finish.

Alcohol Content:

It has an alcohol content of 12%.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve on its own, with light appetisers, with seafood dishes or with Asian or Mexican inspired cuisine.

Stockists:

Available at Morton’s Galway for E12.99 currently.

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Galway – A visitors’ guide – Where to Stay

Posted on May 6, 2013 by

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I am very lucky to live close to Galway City which is a truly wonderful city with a holiday feel all year round.  Its beauty, charm, many attractions and summer festivals make it a magnet for tourists.  For first time visitors, it can be difficult navigating through the accommodation options around the city of which there are many.  Visitors can choose to stay in the City Centre, in Salthill or further out along the coast such as in Barna or Furbo.  There is also a wide variety of accommodation to be found from Hotels to B&B’s to Hostels.

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Here are some options to consider if you are in the process of booking a trip to our wonderful city. 

City Centre – Hotels

Hotel  Meyrick – 4 Stars

This most central of hotels is located in a landmark building beside the train station and fronts onto Eyre Square.  This hotel will cater to your every whim offering spa treatments, dinner in the Oyster Grill, cocktails in the Oyster Bar, afternoon tea in the Lobby or sports events on TV downstairs in Fagan’s Bar.  And you will be within walking distance of everything the city has to offer.  Check out its website at www.hotelmeyrick.ie

Park House Hotel – 4 Star

This hotel is also situated in the heart of the city close to the train station.  This hotel is well known for the quality of the service it provides to its guests.  The food at this hotel is consistently excellent whether you eat in either the Restaurant or in the Bar – Boss Doyle’s.    And its staff are among the most welcoming people you will meet as you visit our city. www.parkhousehotel.ie

The House Hotel – 4 Star

The House Hotel is located close to the hustle and bustle of Quay Street and High Street whilst still being only a short walk from Eyre Square.  This hotel is best described as a boutique hotel and is home to one of the best cocktail bars in the city.  Perfect for any occasion but particularly suitable for a girlie weekend away whether you are looking to paint the town red or for a relaxing break to de-stress and wind down. www.thehousehotel.ie

Radisson Hotel – 4 Star

This hotel overlooks Lough Atalia and is only a short walk from the City Centre.  The hotel offers all the facilities one would expect from a Radisson hotel including Restaurant Marinas and RAW Sushi or if you are looking for a well mixed cocktail, then the Atrium Lounge is the place to go.  The Hotel is rightly proud of its spa – The Spirit One Spa is one of the best spas in the country and well worth a visit.  www.radissonblu.ie/galway

The G Hotel – 5 Star

If you are really looking for a treat, then stay in this Philip Treacy designed Hotel in Wellpark, Galway which is still only a short distance  from the city centre.  Everything at the G is spectacular from the rooms to the food to the wonderful eSpa.  Go on treat yourself!  www.theghotel.ie

Alternatives – City Centre

If your budget doesn’t stretch to any of these hotels and you would prefer to stay in a B & B, then look no further than College Road.  There are numerous B & B’s on this road and all of them are within walking distance of the city centre.  If you are looking for a hostel, then check out Snoozles, Kinlay House or the Galway City Hostel, all of them centrally located.

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Outside the City Centre

If you are not interested in staying in the City Centre, there are a number of wonderful alternatives close by.

Salthill

The Galway Bay Hotel (4 Star) is centrally located on the Salthill Promenade and is a wonderful hotel for a family getaway.  Enjoy the wonderful views, excellent food and the Leisure Centre in the centre of all Salthill has to offer.  www.galwaybayhotel.net

Another hotel offering great facilities for all the family is The Salthill Hotel.  Again situated close to the promenade, it also boasts many dining options and a brand new leisure centre.  www.salthillhotel.com

Barna and Furbo

A short distance from Salthill on the road towards Spiddal, you will firstly come upon the Seaside village of Barna and then Furbo.  The Twelve Hotel in Barna is a wonderful option as a romantic getaway.  It is famed for its hospitality, its food (and drink!) and also offers spa treatments – oh and you can bring your dog if you like.  Barna is within easy distance of the city centre by car or taxi – and there is a (limited) bus service too. www.thetwelvehotel.ie

The Connemara Coast Hotel is located in Furbo.  With a beautiful location on the shores of Galway Bay, this is a great hotel (4 Star) for family getaway at the gateway to Connemara.  Well known for their wonderful food, the Hotel also offers a Leisure Centre where you can even learn to swim or have a badly needed massage.  www.connemaracoast.ie

I hopes this helps you decide where to stay when you are visiting our lovely City.  Enjoy yourselves, and check out my other posts for ideas on what to do and where to eat and drink.

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Aniar, Galway

Posted on March 16, 2013 by

Aniar Restaurant on Dominic Street, Galway was awarded a Michelin Star in 2012.  I had visited it twice prior to the award and last week visited it for the first time since it acquired the star.  I really enjoyed my first visit.  My starter of Pork Cheek was truly sublime and was certainly the best dish I have had at Aniar.  That first visit I had Slip Sole for Main Course and a parfait for dessert.  All in all, I left after that visit enthusing about the place.

The second visit was also enjoyable though I though I chose badly for my starter, a chicken liver parfait – not something I would usually pick – it wasn’t to my taste though it was well executed.  My Duck main and another parfait for dessert were very nice.  Although not enthusing as much as I had following my first visit, I left looking forward to returning again.

And now to my latest visit.  I was really looking forward to seeing the impact of the Michelin Star and what that had meant for the restaurant.  I also wondered if the comfort level of the restaurant had been upped in terms of seating or flooring etc.  On arrival, everything looked the same as before and we waited in anticipation for the menu.

The menu was more limited than it had been in recent visits although there was a tasting menu which had to be had by the table as a whole.  There were only three choices on the a la carte menu for starter, main and dessert.  We ordered glasses of Prosecco Brut Rose and chose a wine – a French Sauvignon Blanc from the Touraine region- from a well thought out wine list.

I chose the Duck Heart salad for starter and my dining companion the scallop with pork belly.  The starters were good but did not match the quality of what I had on my first visit. For main course, I had the Lamb Loin and my friend, the Pork Neck.  The mains are served with a side order of baby potatoes. Both main courses were good, however the food was lukewarm at best when it arrived at the table.  Desserts of Buttermilk Pannacotta and Pear with Sheep’s yogurt were fine but we didn’t finish the accompaniments.

In truth, what disappointed me about this visit to Aniar was not the food, although the mains should have been hotter.  The main disappointment was the small things that I would expect from a Michelin starred restaurant.  A 20 minute wait for a wine cooler.  Our server not knowing which of us ordered what dish.  The failure to clear a table close to us of dirty dishes once that party had left.  These are things that would not bother me in most restaurants but I expect more from Michelin starred restaurant.

I also hear that the Chef is finishing up at the end of this month (March 2013).  No doubt interesting times ahead for Aniar.

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O’Grady’s on the Pier, Barna, Galway

Posted on May 12, 2012 by

One of my favourite restaurants of all time is Michael O’Grady’s seafood restaurant O’Grady’s on the Pier in Barna just outside Galway City.  And even better is that it is a local restaurant for me!

The restaurant is renowned for its seafood and has won many awards including Best Seafood Experience at the Restaurant Association of Ireland Awards 2011 – an award it is shortlisted for again this year.  It’s location is another huge plus factor being right down on Barna Pier with gorgeous views across Galway Bay.

I have been to O’Grady’s both for dinner and lunch a number of times and it is always a treat.  The location is equally stunning on a stormy winters day as it is on a sunny summers day.  And when the sun does shine, there is the option of eating outside facing the sea.

I love Sunday Lunch at O’Grady’s where you can have a three course meal for E27.95 (or each dish is individually priced if you don’t wish to have 3 courses).  Starters typically include soup, O’Grady’s famous chowder, smoked salmon and caeser salad.  Main courses typically include a number of seafood options depending on availability and old favourites such as Breast of Chicken and Pork Belly.

My most recent visit was for dinner where a “Specials” menu lists the fish options available that day whilst the a la carte lists the regular dishes.  A basket of bread was brought to the table with the brown bread being a particular winner with both nutty and treacle flavours. We chose a bottle of the house Sauvignon Blanc (Chilean – Millamann Condor) and it was very good – the house wines are particularly good at O’Gradys.  We only ordered one starter – a Raviolo of prawn and red pepper which was served in a bisque.  It was very good indeed and I would have it again.  For mains, we both ordered Sea Bass.  This was served with roast potato and chorizo and was garnished with a rocket and tomata salsa salad with parmesan cheese.  This was an outstanding dish, the fish was cooked to perfection and the presentation was beautiful.  The dish was accompanied with a side dish of potatoes and vegetables (carrots, cauliflower, peas, leeks).  Other options on the menu included Atlantic Cod, Silver Hake, Monkfish and for meat lovers there were steak, duck and lamb dishes.

Almost beaten, we managed one dessert – the Creme Brulee – which was very good. Other dessert options included a Zesty Pistachio and Olive Oil cake served with roasted strawberries and clotted cream, O’Grady’s Apple Crumble, Sticky Fudge &  Pecan Parfait and Valrhona Chocolate Brownie.

Our bill for one starter, two main courses, one dessert, a bottle and a glass of house wine and a french coffee came to E102.  O’Grady’s is a wonderful restaurant and it is always a winner in terms of food, service and its stunning location.

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Pizza Dozzina at The Twelve Hotel, Barna, Galway

Posted on May 12, 2012 by

I am very lucky to live close to The Twelve Hotel in Barna which is a real hub for the community and offers plenty of variety – and quality – in the food and drink arena.  Their latest addition is an Artisanal Pizza/deli called Pizza Dozzina.  It’s really a takeaway but the pizzas can be ordered directly from and eaten in The Pins bar so its a win win.  The hand made pizza oven was shipped directly from Naples and really adds to the authenticity of the operation.

The menu is split into two types of Pizza – the Classics and the Locally Inspired.  The Classics include the expected Italian varieties of Quattro Formaggi, Pomodoro, Calzone, Marinara, Sicilian, Parma and Funghi.  The Locally Inspired menu is a wonderful creation of locally named pizzas made with additional gourmet (and homegrown) ingredients.  These pizzas include The Twelve Pins (Tomato, Confit Duck, red onion relish, percorino, rocket and apple salad topped with thyme oil), The Prom Walk (Breakfast pizza with Clonakilty black pudding, streaky bacon, mushrooms, McGeough’s turf smoked sausage, with mozzarella, tomato and an optional egg!) and a Barnarita (Tomato, Cork buffalo mozzarella and torn basil).  Other locally named inspired pizzas are The Barna Crossroads, The Pier, Inis Meain Popeye, The Guard, Galway Market, Spanish Arch and Connemara.

I recently tried the Connemara pizza.   This pizza combines Tomato, mozzarella, spiced lamb, red onions & tomato salsa, sage and sesame seeds and is served with a drizzle of natural yogurt.  It was sublime and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

All of the pizza ingredients are available to purchase at the Deli counter and side orders of coleslaw, caeser salad and olives are also available.  And if you fancy some wine but the cellar is bare at home, don’t worry – red and white Italian wines are available for purchase! The pizzas cost E12 each and are ready within 12 minutes of ordering!  Their phone number is 091 597012.  Go on, do it!!

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