From coffee connoisseurs to more casual sippers, a pilgrimage of espresso excellence is made complete by calling into Tal Vez Coffee in Gort, Co. Galway. Located in the centre of town on Bridge Street, Tal Vez is a bright and welcoming third-wave cafe saturated with Mexican influences. Read all about it here..
For owner and head barista Annie De la Riva, these touches are an important homage to her hometown of Mexico City. It was there where the bustling cafe culture inspired her to open Ireland’s first Mexican owned specialty coffee shop.
Annie shares, “ I feel like when I was a kid, I always visualised myself running my own coffee shop… So, for me, Tal Vez is the dream come true!"
Through years of diligent planning, Annie perfected her skills as a cafe owner and barista. From hands-on training at renowned coffee shops like ‘Camino a Comala’ in Mexico City, to keeping pages of advice and notes in both Spanish and English, Annie’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences through coffee is at the heart of all she does. “ It's not just about the coffee; it's about how you treat a person… I base a lot of this business on how I can make people feel.”
There is an unmistakable sense of care and consideration poured into Tal Vez. Along with masterfully made coffees, the cafe caters to those looking for an inviting and relaxing space to spend their time when in Gort. Annie’s partner, Jim Ricks, shares, “ We want people to sit in, enjoy, and have conversations with each other…” Annie adds, “We try to make people feel like they’re being welcomed into our home.” Located in the 200-year-old 'M. Barry' shop on Bridge Street, Annie and Jim worked to ensure the building remained true to the Irish history and style of the shop, while also honing in on a distinctly Mexican influence and spirit.
The coffee menu at Tal Vez reflects this theme of cultural fusion. You’ll find all of the classics, alongside signature drinks like the Mexican Mocha, made with authentic Mexican chocolate and coffee beans specially roasted by Calendar Coffee. This summer, be sure to try the refreshing cold-brew mocktails Annie has perfected, like the Coffee Lemonade. Her wealth of knowledge when it comes to all things coffee ensures that a trip to Tal Vez will always be a wonderful experience. Tal Vez also stocks baked goods by the Lán Kitchen and an impressive selection of Mexican snacks and candies that are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy.
Tal Vez effortlessly combines modern coffee culture with a timeless atmosphere. The bright, airy space pairs perfectly with the high-quality service and coffee that’s promised in every visit. Annie has the gift of sharing her love of coffee with everyone who passes through their doors. “ I'm just bringing what I love to do to the world. And I think when you do that, people can see it.” When visiting Tal Vez, don’t miss ‘The Cash Shop' a contemporary art space Jim curates next door. This space is “an experimental centre for community engagement, public art, exhibitions, and skill sharing.”
Be sure to visit Tal Vez this summer to experience a taste of Mexico in Galway. “ I'm still so excited,” Annie says. “Today I still feel the same way as the first day I opened the doors.”
Keep up to date with Tal Vez’s journey by following them on Instagram @talvezcoffee.
All photos by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
