Dining in Galway: What to Try in 2025?

Best Restaurants in Galway City

1. Ard Bia at Nimmos

Located beside the Spanish Arch, Ard Bia at Nimmos is as much about the atmosphere as it is about  food. This quirky, artsy restaurant serves organic produce and seafood straight from local shores, all within an intimate and eclectic space. Known for its artistic flair and warm hospitality, Ard Bia is a top choice for sustainable casual dining, having clinched the Best Casual Dining in Connacht award at the 2023 Food & Wine Restaurant of the Year Awards.

2. Brasserie on the Corner

Brasserie on the Corner is one of Galway’s standout restaurants, famous for its steak and Atlantic seafood. Championing the Farm to Fork philosophy, it blends flavour and sustainability effortlessly. With its ever-changing seasonal menu and extensive wine list, Brasserie has earned multiple accolades, including several wins at the Bar of the Year Awards.

3. Daróg Wine Bar

Tucked away on  Lower Dominick Street, Daróg Wine Bar is an intimate venue specialising in natural, biodynamic, and organic wines. Its curated small plates highlight local produce and seasonal ingredients, offering a relaxed yet refined dining experience. In 2025, it was honoured with a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide—a testament to its culinary excellence at accessible prices. 

Must-Try Places to Eat in Galway: Local Dishes & Food Experiences  

Traditional Irish Food

1. Tribes Restaurant

Located within Clayton Hotel Galway, Tribes Restaurant is a crowd-pleaser offering international flair with a strong local influence. The menu features seasonal produce, celebrating the best of Irish ingredients in a modern setting. It’s a great spot whether you're after a cosy family dinner or a business lunch. 
Clayton Hotel Galway

2. McDonagh’s

A Galway institution for over four generations, McDonagh’s Seafood House is a popular seafood restaurant located on Quay Street. The family-run restaurant serves a wide range of quality seafood - from Clarenbridge oyster to salmon, mussels, scallops and hake. It also features a Fish & Chips Bar, offering both takeaway and dine-in options.

3. MacNeill’s Pub  

Located in the heart of Eyre Square, MacNeill’s Pub is a gastropub exuding charm and warmth. Its rich history and lively atmosphere create  a timeless Irish pub ambience, enhanced by dark wood panelling, stained glass windows, and cosy nooks perfect for relaxing. Known for hearty dishes and creative cocktails, it’s a local favourite for anyone seeking Irish charm paired with flavourful pub grub.

Modern Irish Fusion

1. Rúibín

At Rúibín, seasonal Irish ingredients are reimagined with global flair in a stylish space overlooking Galway’s scenic docklands. Owned and operated by a well-travelled culinary duo, the menu is inspired by their global journey and shaped by Ireland’s wild Atlantic produce. Known as one of the best seafood restaurants in Galway, Rúibín blends creativity and locality to serve up bold, flavour-packed dishes in a warm, contemporary setting.

2. GEO

Located inside the glitzy  g Hotel, GEO infuses global flavours into locally sourced meals. The menu evolves with the seasons, offering guests an exciting and fresh experience with every visit. Dining is available only between Thursday and Saturday from 6pm, and smart casual or formal attire is preferred.

Galway Oysters and Seafood Trail

The Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival includes a seafood trail showcasing Galway’s top restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients and seafood.  

Notable participants include:

1. McSwiggan’s

For over 30 years, McSwiggan’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant has served high-quality seafood and steak in a lively yet refined setting. Its Josper charcoal oven is famed for delivering juicy, flavour-packed dishes with Irish, European and Eastern influences.

2. Aniar

A Michelin-starred gem, Aniar explores Ireland’s wild west through a seasonal tasting menu, celebrating native ingredients and culinary storytelling.

3. Moran's Oyster Cottage

With 250 years of seafood tradition, Moran’s Oyster Cottage is popular for its Clarenbridge oysters and classic seafood chowder, made from a family recipe passed down through seven generations. 

Best Restaurants in Galway for Unique Dining Experiences

Farm-to-Table Restaurants

1. Dela Restaurant

Self-sustainability is at Dela’s core. From vegetables grown on their farm to coffee roasted in Moycullen, every element is carefully sourced. Dela is beloved for its 7-day brunch and seasonal dinners, all served in a laid-back, wholesome setting.

2. Kai

Tucked away in Galway’s vibrant Westend, Kai – the Māori word for food – has been delighting diners since 2011. This award-winning restaurant champions seasonal cooking, using high-quality, locally sourced produce that’s either organic or wild. With its stone floors, rustic charm and welcoming ambience, Kai offers a relaxed dining experience where simplicity meets flavour. The ever-changing menu reflects what’s in season, making each visit a fresh and memorable taste of the west of Ireland.

Riverside or Sea-view Dining

1. Gourmet Food Parlour - Salthill

Overlooking Galway Bay, this Salthill spot serves locally sourced seafood with flair. The laid-back seaside ambience is the perfect match for their catch-of-the-day specials.

2. Sophie’s - The Dean Galway

Offering sweeping rooftop views, Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant combines atmosphere and flavour. Enjoy wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cocktails in a setting ideal for brunches or date nights. 

Historic Pubs with Food

1. The Kings Head

Steeped in over 800 years of history, The King’s Head is a landmark on Galway’s High Street. Once home to the mayor of Galway, the building was seized by Colonel Peter Stubbers—infamously known as the executioner of King Charles I—giving the pub its distinctive name. Today, it stands as one of Ireland’s most iconic gastropubs, offering a vibrant mix of history, atmosphere, and flavour. Whether you’re at the bar or in the bistro, enjoy a menu bursting with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients—think crab claws, scallops, Connemara lamb, and organic veg. Their signature Blood Red Ale, brewed in-house, complements an impressive drinks list of Irish craft beers, whiskeys, and cocktails.

2. Tigh Neachtain

A beloved Galway institution since 1894, Tigh Neachtain sits proudly at the corner of Cross Street and Quay Street. This family-run pub is a vibrant supporter of local arts, culture, and music—hosting live performances throughout the week. Behind the bar, you’ll find a treasure trove of craft beers, rare whiskeys, vintage scotch, and their own home-brewed creations. The food includes a locally sourced lunch menu and light bites, perfect for a casual yet authentic Galway experience.

Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Dining in Galway

1. Jemi Lighthouse Café

This vegetarian haven in Galway serves up homemade vegan dishes like Mexican rice bowls and hearty soups. With its relaxed atmosphere and focus on local ingredients, it’s a hidden gem.

2. The Bean Tree

For nearly three decades, The Bean Tree has been Galway’s go-to spot for plant-based, gluten-free meals. Favourites include their pea & potato curry and a range of vegan ready-meals. 

Plan Your Culinary Trip to Galway

Reservations

Book early: Popular spots fill quickly, so reserve in advance.

Confirm bookings: Call to reconfirm a few days ahead.

Be courteous: Notify of delays or cancellations, ideally 24+ hours ahead.

Check walk-in policies: Some brunch spots operate on walk-in only.

Best Times to Visit Restaurants

For a vibrant vibe, opt for Friday or Saturday evenings. Sunday afternoons offer a more relaxed pace, while weekdays are ideal for quieter dining. Summer months bring longer evenings and lively outdoor seating; winter showcases heartier seasonal menus.

Pairing Food with Galway’s Pubs & Nightlife

Many of Galway’s top restaurants also double as bars or are located near excellent pubs. You can easily combine dinner with a night out, moving from delicious food to live music and cocktails within walking distance.