Global Major Cities Guide

General information on eateries in Galway ranging from fine dining to casual spots.

Traditional Irish Cuisine
Galway is a fantastic place to experience authentic Irish dishes, often made with fresh, local ingredients. Expect hearty stews, fresh seafood, and dishes featuring potatoes, lamb, and beef.
- Must-try dishes: Irish stew, boxty (potato pancakes), and colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale).
Seafood
Being a coastal city, Galway is famous for its seafood. Oysters, mussels, crab, and fresh fish are staples. The Galway International Oyster Festival, held annually in September, celebrates this heritage.
- Must-try dishes: Galway Bay oysters, smoked salmon, and seafood chowder.
Modern Irish Cuisine
Many restaurants in Galway offer a contemporary twist on traditional Irish dishes, incorporating global influences and innovative techniques.
International Cuisine
Galway’s cosmopolitan vibe means you’ll find a variety of international cuisines, including Italian, Indian, Asian fusion, Middle Eastern, and more.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Galway is increasingly catering to plant-based diets, with many restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus.

Here are some of the most notable restaurants and eateries in Galway:

Aniar
- Cuisine: Michelin-starred restaurant focusing on modern Irish cuisine with a farm-to-table philosophy.
- Price Range: €€€€ (Tasting menus start around €100 per person).
- Highlights: Seasonal tasting menus featuring local ingredients.
- Reservations: Essential, often weeks in advance.
Loam
- Cuisine: Michelin-starred, contemporary Irish cuisine with a focus on sustainability.
- Price Range: €€€€ (Tasting menus start around €90 per person).
- Highlights: Creative dishes using foraged and locally sourced ingredients.
- Reservations: Strongly recommended.

The Quay Street Kitchen
- Cuisine: Irish and European comfort food.
- Price Range: €€ (Mains €15–€25).
- Highlights: Cozy atmosphere, great for traditional Irish dishes.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are welcome, but it can get busy.
McDonagh’s
- Cuisine: Seafood, famous for fish and chips.
- Price Range: €€ (Mains €10–€20).
- Highlights: A Galway institution for fresh, no-frills seafood.
- Reservations: Not required.

O’Grady’s on the Pier (Barna)
- Cuisine: Seafood-focused, located just outside Galway city.
- Price Range: €€€ (Mains €20–€35).
- Highlights: Stunning views of Galway Bay, fresh oysters, and lobster.
- Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner.
Kai Café + Restaurant
- Cuisine: Modern Irish with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Price Range: €€€ (Mains €20–€30).
- Highlights: Creative seafood dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Reservations: Advised for dinner.

Il Vicolo
- Cuisine: Italian.
- Price Range: €€ (Mains €15–€25).
- Highlights: Authentic pasta dishes and a romantic riverside setting.
- Reservations: Recommended for evenings.
TGO Falafel Bar
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern.
- Price Range: € (Mains €8–€15).
- Highlights: Affordable, delicious falafel wraps and bowls.
- Reservations: Not required.

Fine Dining: Reservations are essential, especially for Michelin-starred restaurants like Aniar and Loam. Book online via their websites or by phone.
Casual Dining: Many casual restaurants and pubs operate on a walk-in basis, but it’s a good idea to call ahead during peak times (weekends and evenings).
Seasonal Considerations: Galway is a popular tourist destination, especially in summer and during festivals, so book well in advance during these times.

Tipping
- Tipping is not mandatory in Ireland, but it’s customary to leave 10–15% for good service in restaurants.
- In casual settings like pubs or cafés, rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Pub Culture
- Many pubs in Galway serve excellent food, often referred to as "pub grub." These are great places to enjoy hearty meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Pubs are family-friendly during the day but may become more adult-oriented in the evenings.
Dining Hours
- Lunch is typically served from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
- Dinner service usually starts around 5:30 PM and can go until 9:30 PM or later.
- Some restaurants close between lunch and dinner service, so check opening hours in advance.
Dietary Restrictions
- Most restaurants in Galway are accommodating of dietary restrictions. It’s always a good idea to inform the staff in advance if you have specific needs.

Galway Bay Oysters
- Best enjoyed fresh with a squeeze of lemon or a dash of Tabasco.
- Try them at McDonagh’s or during the Galway International Oyster Festival.
Seafood Chowder
- A creamy soup made with fresh fish, shellfish, and potatoes. Perfect for a chilly day.
Irish Brown Bread
- Often served with soups, stews, or smoked salmon. Many restaurants bake their own.
Connemara Lamb
- Sourced from the nearby Connemara region, this lamb is known for its unique flavor, influenced by the coastal environment.
Aran Islands Goat Cheese
- A local specialty, often featured in salads or as part of a cheese board.

Galway is a foodie’s paradise, so don’t hesitate to explore smaller, lesser-known spots. The city’s vibrant food markets, like the Galway Market near St. Nicholas’ Church, are also worth visiting for local produce, baked goods, and street food.
If you’re visiting during a festival (e.g., Galway International Arts Festival or the Oyster Festival), book your dining reservations well in advance, as the city gets very busy.

Enjoy your culinary adventure in Galway! Let me know if you’d like recommendations for specific dietary needs or additional tips.

Galway