Dia Duit! Here in Galway City, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to places to eat. It can feel difficult to narrow down your options on where to go, so we have dwindled them down for you, to offer some help in steering you to some of the city’s best restaurants for a weekend in Galway full of gorgeous breakfasts, lunches and dinners. If you’re ever in need of a guide for weekend dining in Galway city, look no further because help is here! Keep reading for more…
Friday
Breakfast: Begin your food-focused weekend at Blackrock Cottage. Mornings are made better with breakfast in this contemporary Irish cuisine restaurant located along the coastal strip of Salthill. Prepare for the famous Blackrock Full that features a plate of rashers, sausages, sunny side up eggs and chunky sourdough all washed down with tea/coffee. Or perhaps you're in the mood for Blackrock Buttermilk Pancakes, a dish built with nutty granola, whipped mascarpone and seasonal compote. Whatever it is, Blackrock Cottage will look after your dietary needs. Blackrock Cottage is housed inside a restored and renovated 1830s cottage, alongside Salthill’s iconic Blackrock Diving Tower so make sure you don't shy away from a stroll by the pier after your breakfast here!
Salthill Promenade // MORE HERE
above: Blackrock Cottage
Lunch: If you happen to find yourself in the mood for a lunch that consists of a smooth coffee paired with freshly baked scones and pastries or delicious sandwiches. The Creamery is the place to be. A charming spot by the sea, right on the promenade, their Nutella crepes and Belgian waffles have been local favourites for 21 years. Goodies fresh from the oven and straight to your heart.
Salthill Promenade // MORE HERE
Dinner: While you're still exploring Salthill, Black Cat, is quite the find for a gorgeous dinner. You'll be in safe hands under the direction of owners Joanna Paszkiewicz and Chef Leon Mellsop. Their selection of locally sourced food in tapas style is some of the best in all Galway. Black Cat is a must on your food-focused crusade. From slow roasted beef cheeks to monkfish tempura, Black Cat is sure to delight any palate. These dishes are built for sharing with friends and family. We recommend booking in advance as tables book up quickly at this Galway gem.
179 Upper Salthill Road // MORE HERE
above: Black Cat
Saturday
Late Breakfast/Brunch: Make Ard Bia your first stop on a Saturday morning because there isn't a more perfect way to continue your food quest. Located next to the historic Spanish Arch and perched along the waters of the river Corrib, Ard Bia is a Galway food staple. A sight that instantly gets your appetite going. After brunch, walk just a few steps away to the Galway City Museum for another treat. It's a free and a lovely way to ground yourself in the city's history without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It pairs perfectly with that post brunch stroll feeling we've all experienced.
Spanish Arch // MORE HERE
Light Bites: When hunger strikes again, head straight for Pizza & Pasta Napoli. This little takeaway restaurant is a Galway favourite and for good reason. Great pizza, fast service and massive slices that come piping hot straight from the oven. Prices are cheap, portions are generous and honestly, every option is a must have. It's the perfect grab-and-go spot, and you can always count on Pizza & Pasta Napoli to be open late if you need a light bite later on in the day. From there, spend your afternoon soaking up some Galway talent at the Galway Arts Centre. It’s a relaxed spot where you can browse their monthly exhibition, educate yourself and slow things down a notch before dinner!
15 Cross Street Upper // MORE HERE
Dinner: As evening rolls in, Rúibín Bar and Restaurant opens its doors for dinner service, and you’ll want to be there when it does. Rúibín is Irish for “small ruby stone” and this place truly is a Galway gem. This beautiful stone building overlooks Galway's historic docklands, promising you great views and great food. Why not start your meal with the marinated olives and seasonal oysters? It's chic and simple. Fresh oysters and a gentle kiss of citrus on the olives. For mains, the pan-fried halibut in onion broth, bok choi, crispy onions, as well as the Skeaghanore duck breast, affirms that at Rúibín every dish is carefully considered.
1 Dock Rd // MORE HERE
Sunday
Breakfast: Sunday mornings just call for Mr Waffle, and if you love crepes, prepare to fall in love. Mr Waffle being located near the University of Galway, makes it an easy favourite with students. There is something here for everyone with their array of gluten free and vegetarian options, both sweet and savoury. Their portions are generous, so come hungry! The traditional waffle is a standout and here's a pro tip: mix the raspberry jam, mix it with the whipped cream and dip your crepe in for a real game changer!
Newcastle Rd // MORE HERE
Coffee Break: For a late morning palate cleanser, stop by Little Collins on Abbeygate Street. Their Melbourne magic espresso creation is the perfect thing to pick you back up. It's a cup of strong coffee finished with a subtle sweetness that sets it apart from a regular americano. Little Collins is a vegan, planet based and CBD infused company and even if that's not normally your thing, trust us, it's worth the stop.
25 Abbeygate Street Upper // MORE HERE
above: Little Collins CBD Dispensary
Lunch: Step back in time with a hearty lunch at Finnegans. This tourist-friendly spot is tucked into one of Galway’s oldest mediaeval buildings that dates back to 1589. Locals love lunch at Finnegans just as much as visitors and the food here is hearty, hot and generous. Perhaps order their baked salmon with two scoops of mash, baby potatoes, broccoli and carrots for comfort on a plate. It’s the perfect fuel before wandering straight onto Shop Street for a little retail therapy.
2 Market St // MORE HERE
Dinner: When Sunday evening falls, you'll want to head to Il Vicolo. One of Galway’s most romantic dining spots, the Italian restaurant is set downstairs in an old mill beside the rushing water. The atmosphere is instantly special. Candlelight, exposed stone walls and the sound of the river creates a near cinematic feel. Their rustic Italian dinner menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. End your weekend with a night you won't forget!
Dominick St Lower // MORE HERE
Main image by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
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