Abby Comeau is an ISA Site Specialist for Europe. Abby works with students studying abroad in France and Ireland.
While international cuisine has found a foothold in Ireland’s culinary landscape, traditional Irish food remains an important part of Galway’s culture. It is impossible to visit Galway without exploring Irish culinary roots and we’re willing to bet that after one Irish Breakfast, you won’t be able to go back to your morning bowl of cold cereal.
What Should You Eat?
–Seafood – Galway’s coastal location makes it an ideal spot for exploring your inner pescatarian. Grab some fish & chips or order smoked salmon in your morning eggs.
–Full Irish Breakfast – We mentioned it before and we’re not kidding. Take shelter from Galway’s rain and keep warm with a giant plate of eggs, rashers (bacon), black pudding, soda bread, baked beans, fried mushrooms, sausage, hashbrowns, and half a tomato.
–Brown Soda Bread – A staple of many meals, slather butter on a slice for a delicious treat. Kick-start your culinary journey and bake soda bread now.
–Champ – A wonderful twist on mashed potatoes, complete with scallions, butter and milk.
–Irish Stew – Lamb, carrots, onions, potatoes, parsley…perfect for a winter evening.
–Cottage Pie – Also know as shepherd’s pie.
–Goody – This sweet treat is made by baking bread, milk, sugar and spices. As the name suggests, GOODY IS GOOD.
Where Should You Go?
–Pubs – Pubs in Galway are a great place to grab dinner, a drink and listen to Traditional Irish Music. Check out The Crane Bar, Monroe’s Tavern, Taaffes or Tigh Choili.
–Collerans Butchers – For all of your Irish stew needs.
-Sheridans Cheesemongers – Ardrahan, Bellingham Blue, Cashel Blue, Coolea, Durrus, Gabriel, Gubbeen, Knockanore Smoked, Lavistown, Milleens, St. Tola, and Wicklow Blue Brie…who knew there were so many types of Irish cheese!
–Galway Market – This farmers’ market, near St. Nicolas’ Church, offers the best of local artisan goods.
Festivals Celebrating Irish Food:
–Galway Oyster & Seafood Festival – See how many oysters you can shuck during this September festival.
-Galway Food Festival – A celebration of all that is food and dining in Galway.
