Galway - Pubs
There are a lot of pubs in Galway, not all of them have live music, which is where Karen and I usually go. Some specialize in Irish whiskey like Garavan’s, some in gin like Tigh Nora. Some cater to more of a younger rock scene, like The Quays (pronounced Keys). Most all have no cover charge, just walk in.
King’s Head – Been in Galway since the 17th century, food and music, will get crowded at night. Go upstairs and sit at a table by the rail and look down at the musicians.
Taafe’s – One of our favorites for music, tight quarters, have to get there early, it’s popular. Has trad music 5:30 and 9:30 so you can see music early. If you want a seat, get there a good ½ hour before the music starts or earlier.
Tig Choili – Another very popular music pub, across the street from Taafe’s, music at 6 and 9pm, again, arrive even earlier than Taafe’s.
Tigh Neachtain – Not a music pub, but one of the best places for a pint, if you can get a seat outside, great place to people watch.
Au Pucan – Pub on the way to the Coach Station, just past Eyre Square. Big place, always has a variety of music and good pub food.
13th on the Green – Music most nights, but not lively, you will be able to find a seat. Has a really good fish chowder.
Galway – Restaurants
For some restaurants, even for lunch, see if they take reservations online or call them using the program phone, will save you some aggravation to go somewhere and have to wait or not be served at all.
Brasserie on the Corner – One of the nicer and best restaurants, not terribly expensive, a nice place for lunch.
Mama Rich – Interesting Asian food, always good.
Ard Bia – Terrific restaurant and setting, absolute must for breakfast/brunch, you have to go here at least once. Near the Spanish Arch.
McDonough’s – Galway institution for fish and chips, although Karen liked the fish and chips at Brasserie better, it’s the popular place to go.
Xian Street Food – Must have a spice bag once before you leave. What is a spice bag? Here.
Supermac – Ireland’s version of McDonald’s, only better, at least so I’ve heard. Don’t worry, kids will be happy, there is a McDonald’s on the main street as well.
Ruibin – Excellent restaurant on the east side of Galway near the docs, great for lunch.
Dough Bros – Galway’s most popular pizza restaurant, but there are other good pizza places as well, like Wooza’s and Trattoria Magnetti (good goat cheese salad).
Others of note, and we could have listed 20+ more: The Seafood Bar @ Kirwan’s (excellent but not cheap), Sangria (tapas), Café Bodega, The Dail (traditional Irish food), most all of the pubs and numerous Turkish sausage take away restaurants around the city.