Tapas are made for sharing and trust us when we say that Galway has plenty of amazing options to go around. From authentic Spanish fare to Asian fusion nibbles, we’re spoiled for choice here when it comes to laid-back dining and bite-sized delights. Here’s where you can find some tasty tapas in Galway city…
Deli La Tasca
Prepare to be transported to far off Mediterranean shores with this cosy, classy tapas spot nestled in Galway’s Westend. Deli La Tasca have put their own spin on traditional Spanish recipes, creating a homemade tapas menu that includes everything from fresh calamari and tender meatballs to authentic tortillas and delicious vegetarian options. With artful charcuterie boards and delectable wines, this place could almost convince you that you’re dining right in the heart of an old Spanish city. We fell so in love with the food we almost forgot to mention the incredibly sincere, warm welcome which is extended to everybody who visits!
1 Dominick St Upper, Galway's Westend // visit them here
above: photo of Deli la Tasca, by Maxi Browne
Daróg Wine Bar
A stunning intimate space, Daróg Wine Bar offers a wide range of artisan, biodynamic, organic and natural wines, as well as a selection of hot/cold small plates, cheese & meat boards, snacks and sweet platters. With owners and husband and wife team, Zsolt Lukacs and Edel McMahon at the helm and Attila Galambos in the kitchen, this trio are busy channeling their expertise and passion for food, nature and local produce into Daróg. Attila is a three-time finalist in the prestigious Euro Toques Ireland and former sous chef for Aniar and has used his culinary experience from his time in France, Japan, Denmark and Ireland to bring Daróg a gorgeous menu with influences from seasonal produce.
56 Dominick St Lower, Galway's Westend // visit them here
above: photo courtesy of Daróg Wine Bar
The Lane Wine + Cheese
It's not just about fabulous wines at The Lane Wine + Cheese they also serve some pretty incredible tasting pintxos. This selection of delicious simple food plates really is on par with the excellence of their wines. They believe in serving simple but delicious foods which is why everything is made in-house where possible and they work solely with local suppliers who share The Lane’ passion for great foods. Homemade breads, artisan-crafted cheeses and charcuterie, fish platters and more, it really is a haven of gastronomic goodness. They can cater to every taste and preference so if you’re looking for a vegan friendly board just ask.
3 Kirwan's Lane, Latin Quarter // visit them here
above: photo courtesy of The Lane Wine + Cheese
Cava Bodega
When it comes to choice, Cava Bodega - run by Michelin star chef JP McMahon - can’t be beaten. Their extensive tapas menu showcases the best of Iberian cuisine, with natural Spanish wines and authentic desserts to boot. Smoked duck, octopus, chorizo, and serrano ham are just some of the big flavours featured on their menu, and all of their tapas are prepared using local and seasonal Irish produce. With a split-level rustic interior, Cava are 15 years in business and one of Galway’s best-known eateries. If that's not enough to convince you to give it a go, the fact that JP McMahon has written four editions of a best-selling tapas recipe book should do the trick!
1 Middle St, Latin Quarter // visit them here
above: photo courtesy of Cava Bodega
Umbrella Asian Tapas
Tasty Asian food comes in all shapes and sizes, but Umbrella Asian Tapas really takes it to the next level with their menu of over 50 Asian fusion tapas. Well-loved dishes such as pad thai, Singapore noodles, and miso soup come in smaller portions so you can try a little bit of everything (though it’ll probably take more than one visit!) Feast on the flavour-packed ‘Spicy Box’ while you sit under a canopy of multi-coloured umbrellas. With real Asian street market vibes, takeout service, and vegan and vegetarian options, Umbrella Asian Tapas truly has something for everyone.
2 Middle St, Latin Quarter // visit them here
above: photo courtesy of Umbrella Asian Tapas
Sangria Tapas Restaurant
Head Chef and owner, Byron Godoy brings the best of Latin American cooking traditions and ingredients to Galway with his fabulous tapas menu at Sangria Tapas Restaurant. Hailing from Guatemala, Byron’s talent in creating unique and delicious flavours make this Middle St restaurant a real standout. Colourful dishes, an ultra-chic interiors, and Latin American music give Sangria its signature vibrant-yet-mellow atmosphere. Try their Fried Yuca, Dobladas or one of their many meat and seafood options, then top it off with an authentic dessert like the decadent Tres Leches.
19 Middle St, Latin Quarter // visit them here
above: photo courtesy of Sangria Tapas Restaurant
Black Cat
You can’t take a trip to Salthill without wining and dining at Black Cat. For 12 years, this award-winning restaurant combines elegant décor with unfussy, refreshing takes on Spanish tapas. In addition to their meat and cheese platters and a diverse wine menu, they’ve got Mediterranean classics such as garbanzo (chickpea) soup, patatas bravas, and sautéed chorizo. All of which are made with ingredients that have been locally-sourced and always fresh. Expect great jazz, friendly service, and a cosy atmosphere, this is the perfect date night spot or for catching up with your good friend over delicious food and drinks.
179 Upper Salthill // visit them here
above: photo courtesy of Black Cat
M. Fitzgeralds
With over 20 years of working in Spain under his belt, M. Fitzgeralds' Head Chef Nicolas Betts has created a tapas-style menu that embraces a Latin theme. With pinchitos, gambas al ajilio, croquetas de jamon serrano and tortilla con chorizo to name only a few of the delicious options. Incorporating traditional Irish dishes with a Mediterranean influence, from the firm favourite “tequila lime chicken sandwich” to the “estafado” – a braised slow-cooked Irish beef vegetable stew. These small plates are ideal for sharing amongst friends, while also showcasing the best West of Ireland produce in a cosy Latin Quarter bar.
14 Quay St, Latin Quarter // visit them here
above: photo courtesy of M. Fitzgeralds
Feature photo courtesy of M. Fitzgeralds
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