Emily Mierswa is a student at the University of New Hampshire and an ISA Featured Blogger. She is currently studying abroad with ISA in Galway, Ireland.
Just last week I finished classes at NUIG and I cannot believe how quickly this semester has passed! I’m using this blog post as a chance to reflect on some of the quintessential foods I’ve had in Galway and pass along any insider tips I have to those traveling up the Wild Atlantic coast. In no real order (they are all #1) are four food experiences you absolutely must have in Galway.
- Lunch at the Pie Maker
This was definitely a unique experience. This small shop on Cross Street is easy to walk past, but is definitely worth a stop inside. I found the experience to be quirky and cozy. You are offered a selection of savory and sweet personal pies made just for you. I ordered the chicken and wild mushroom pie with traditional Irish sides of mashed potatoes, mushy peas, braised red cabbage. My two friends both choose the sweet apple pie. All of our food was amazing! It’s the perfect place to stop for a little pick me up on a rainy day.
- Afternoon tea at Cupàn Tae
Feeling fancy? Head over to Cupàn Tae (‘cup of tea’ in Irish) and settle in for a delicate tea time. This consisted of a three teared stand filled with finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a sampling of sweet desserts. Oh, and not to forget your pick of any of their teas. Truly an unforgettable experience. Not only was the food delicious but the atmosphere was charming, the rooms were filled with detailed china and played 1920’s jazz. It felt out of place to have my phone out in such a place, but who could resist taking a photo of this spread?
- 99 flake
Every sunny and warm day my Irish classmates and friends push me to go out and get a 99 flake. Finally, on one of the most beautiful days I’ve had, I ordered a 99 flake with strawberry syrup. I have found that a 99 flake is the epitome of summer in Ireland. A 99 flake is a soft serve ice cream cone with a Cadbury flake stuck in it that gets its name from the fact that they were originally sold for just 99 cents. The treat brings back fond memories to anyone who ate them during the summer. Now, I have my own memories of the sunny weather and my 99 flake.
- Dough Bros
Lastly, here is some amazingly affordable and delicious pizza! As a student I am always on the lookout for a cheap-eat. Dough Bros’ pizza made that list and was some of the best pizza I’ve had. The Dough Bros had humble beginnings as a street stall and within a year they moved into their permanent location on High Street. The environment was very hip and casual inside. The décor was inspiring and promoted the Dough Bros story. All of the personal pizzas my friends and I got were wonderful, but definitely make sure to check out the Buffalo Soldier with Buffalo mozzarella, it’s my favorite.
The world awaits…discover it.
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