First dates can be a nerve-wracking experience, with so many possibilities playing out in your mind, you are going to want to be feeling your best as you break the ice on a brand new relationship. If you’re feeling those butterflies in the stomach, we’re here to help! Check out our top 10 picks for where to go on your first date in Galway right here..
1. An Escape Room on Escape Boats
What better way to get to know someone besides being thrown into a small space and try to solve problems together? And what better venue than a boat on the River Corrib? In "The Inspectors" game at Escape Boats, you're an elite maritime inspection team with the Global Protection and Security Agency and it is your job to investigate the cargo and confirm the rumours concerning a suspicious cargo boat off the coast of Galway. You'll get to bond over challenges and tensions, making for a very exciting and engaging first date.
above: photo courtesy of Escape Boats
2. A Seaside Coffee Date at The Creamery
The reason The Creamery is so great for first dates is because it really has something for everyone. They don’t know you, you don’t know them and yet we can guarantee you will both find something you love on the diverse food and drink menus at this Salthill café and restaurant. The space also enjoys a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere which is exactly what your pre-date nerves need. This spot is open until late every night, making it the perfect place to talk the evening away.
above: photo courtesy of The Creamery
3. Chat over Cocktails at O'Connell's
Whether you want the cozy atmosphere of a small pub to get to know each other, or an open been garden bustling with people, O'Connell's has it all. From the Dough Bro's pizza, to the live music, to, our personal favorite, the spicy margaritas, O'Connell's is the perfect place for a lively and fun first date. You could even plan it around one of the themed event nights or the night of a major sports match to add extra flare and launch pad for good conversation.
above: photo courtesy of O'Connell's
4. Get Quizzical with WOMP Events
If you are looking for someone with the same interests as you, WOMP Events might hold the key to a successful first date. Throughout the year they host themed quizzes on popular topics, series, musicians and more. With previous quizzes relating to Friends, The Simpsons, and The Office to name a few. On a more regular basis, they host Common Knowledge quizzes in The Ol’55 which covers a broader range of topics and can be a fun way to meet someone new and be in for the chance to win some cool prizes. Be sure to check out what events they’ve got in the works here and see what stands out!
above: photo courtesy of WOMP Events
5. A Breakfast Date at Dela
For all the early birds out there, or the ones who just really like breakfast foods, how about a breakfast date to kick off your day and, possibly, a new relationship? Nestled in Galway's Westend, Dela offers fresh, farm-to-table meals and a wonderful cute interior to backdrop your first date conversations. We personally recommend the breakfast burrito and one of their speciality teas to calm your first-date jitters.
above: Photo courtesy of Dela
6. Wine and Dine at BlackCat
The perfect dining option for first dates is a tapas style meal, and for this BlackCat is one of our favourites. You can get the conversation started as you both go through the menu, picking the dishes you’d like to try and share with one another. If you need any help, the friendly staff are always on hand to offer their favourites and of course, to recommend which wines will best enhance your dishes. BlackCat combines elegant décor with unfussy, refreshing takes on Spanish tapas, creating the ideal setting for a first date in Galway.
above: photo courtesy of BlackCat
7. Dinner with a View at ArdBia
Often regarded as one of Galway's best restaurants, ArdBia is a perfect balance of quaint and a high-end dining experience. Overlooking the river at Nimmo's Pier, you'll have a wonderfully scenic background while you're getting to know your date better. The menu itself offers a wider array of options ranging from seafood to yummy vegetarian options; all made and plated with a keen artistic and stylistic vision.
above: photo courtesy of ArdBia
8. Cozy up for a film at Eye Cinema
A quintessential first date experience, a movie theatre date allows for the nerves of keeping up conversation to subside while you both bond and connect over a film together. Eye Cinema provides everything you need for a top-tier movie and first date experience, from comfy seats, to delicious snacks, and a wide-range of films to choose from. The cozy ambiance of a movie theatre coupled with the great conversation you'll be sure to have after the movie about what you thought of the story, is the perfect recipe for a quality, low-stress first date experience.
above: photo courtesy of Eye Cinema
9. Treasure hunt at Planet Retro Vintage Store
Vintage shopping is a great option for a first date, whether you're having a laugh trying on some of the pieces or choosing outfits for one another. It can be both a relaxing experience sorting through the racks as well as an exhilarating experience when you find the one item that will supplement your style perfectly. If you both pay attention to style and like uncovering a good hidden gem, theres nothing better than a charming vintage shop to bond over.
above: photo courtesy of Planet Retro
10. Dive into a New Relationship at Blackrock Cottage
A lovely prom date isn’t complete without a stop at Blackrock Cottage. Of course by prom date we mean a date where you walk along the famous Salthill promenade. Their team here have created a sensational evening dining experience complete with delicious wines, irreplicable views and a wholesome ambiance. However, if you are opting for a lunch or earlier date time, don’t worry because the food here is flawless all day long and if the weather is nice you can sit outside with your coffees and enjoy the scenery around you.
above: photo of Blackrock Cottage
Feature photo by Cottonbro Studio on Pexel
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