THE PULLMAN AT GLENLO ABBEY HOTEL & RESORT GAINS ITS FIRST MICHELIN STAR
The Pullman Restaurant at Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate in Galway, has been awarded its first Michelin Star, announced today at the Michelin Great Britain & Ireland Awards Ceremony held at the Dublin Convention Centre
Housed within two original, meticulously restored carriages from the legendary Orient Express, The Pullman reopened on 1st March 2025 with a clear ambition to reach Michelin-star recognition. Under the stewardship of Head Chef Angelo Vagiotis and the dedication of the kitchen and service teams, that milestone has been achieved in under a year.
Rónán O’Halloran, General Manager, commented: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised in this prestigious guide, so soon after reopening The Pullman after its loving restoration following a major investment commitment by our owners. It certainly is a very proud moment for both the front and back of house teams who have worked incredibly hard to achieve our ambitious goal”.
A dining experience unlike any other in Ireland, The Pullman offers a refined interpretation of classic cuisine shaped by the richness of Ireland’s evolving terroir. Menus are crafted around the seasons and celebrate longstanding relationships with local farmers, fishermen and producers. The atmosphere -intimate, nostalgic and evocative of a bygone era-creates an evening that is as transformative as it is culinary.
The Michelin Guide praised the restaurant’s distinctive setting and culinary excellence, noting: “When I booked a table at The Pullman, a new opening on the Glenlo Abbey Estate near Galway in the Republic of Ireland, I knew that the restaurant was located within two Orient Express train carriages. I was expecting a unique setting and a menu that showcased the best of Irish produce.
Yet nothing could have prepared me for the absolute splendor of this restaurant. Stepping inside was like a portal to another time and place. The carriages are from the original Orient Express, yet their restoration is so impressive that I felt like I was dining in the midst of their heyday, nearly 100 years ago, with flawless service to match. Importantly, the cooking lived up to the surroundings, with outstanding produce and skillful execution. The carriages may be motionless, but my experience was still full of emotion”.
Led by Head Chef Angelo Vagiotis, who brings global experience from fine dining establishments, including Noma in Copenhagen and Manresa in California, the team is dedicated to ingredient-driven cooking, classic techniques, and locally sourced produce, aiming to craft a culinary experience that evokes a “sense of place.” Chef Vagiotis most recently served as the inaugural head chef at Terre Restaurant, Castlemartyr Resort, where he led the restaurant to achieve “Hotel Restaurant of the Year” and two Michelin Stars within just 18 months of opening.
Reflecting on the achievement, Chef Angelo Vagiotis commented, “Earning a Michelin Star in our first year is a remarkable achievement for our entire team. We aim to deliver a dining experience that captures the seasons' rhythm and Ireland’s terroir richness. This accolade reaffirms our dedication to traditional techniques, top-quality ingredients, and creating dishes that embody a genuine sense of place”.
The Pullman continues to welcome guests Wednesday through Sunday for an immersive fine-dining experience in one of Ireland’s most atmospheric and storied settings. Dinner is served between 6:00 pm and 9:30 pm. Sample 7 course tasting menu HERE.
Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is one of Ireland's most luxurious hotels, a proud member of Ireland's Blue Book, the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and part of the Irish-owned and managed MHL Hotel Collection. It is just two miles from Galway City and boasts magnificent views overlooking Lough Corrib on a 138-acre estate.
Glenlo Abbey’s Team will be delighted to assist you with any queries by telephone at Tel Intl +353 (0) 91 519600. Or Email: stay@glenloabbey.ie
Alternatively, visit www.glenloabbeyhotel.ie for more information or to reserve your table aboard The Pullman.
-ENDS-
PRESS CONTACT:
Ailish Cantwell
INSPIRE PR
T: 01-8222330 M: 0876999159
Note to editors
Majestically rising from the still waters of Lough Corrib and dating back to the 18th Century, the 138-acre Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is one of Ireland's most remarkable five-star hotels, where old-world charm meets contemporary elegance.
Home to The Pullman, two former carriages from the Orient Express, each with its own distinct history and style, this restaurant offers one of the most unique dining experiences. The hotel has experienced many changes over the years, continually evolving while honouring its past.
The recently renovated 73 air-conditioned bedrooms and suites have been designed with an emphasis on general space and comfort, and they afford unrivalled views of the dramatic West of Ireland landscape with its ever-changing colours. Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate offers superb dining and entertainment options for both formal and informal occasions. Dining options include The Pullman Restaurant on The Orient Express, Palmers Bar & Kitchen, and elegant Reception Rooms in the Main House, which exude Old World Charm, where guests can enjoy a relaxing drink, afternoon tea, or take time out to relax and read the newspapers. Glo Spa & Wellness, where the therapists are highly experienced and trained professionals capable of tailoring all treatments to your specific needs, making the whole experience bespoke to you and your guests’ needs and desires. The ultimate escapism awaits at GLO Spa & Wellness, with its relaxation lounge and tranquillity terrace for post-treatment downtime, further enhancing your relaxation and comfort.
With a 138-acre lakeside golf estate, golf, among other activities, is on your doorstep. The unique Championship 9-Hole Golf Course is quickly becoming the best 9 holes in the country, with rolling hills, lakes, and fabulous views of Lough Corrib. It also boasts a newly refurbished 21-bay Trackman Driving Range.
Lose yourself in a good movie while you relax in the luxurious and cosy surroundings of the Abbey Movie Theatre. With fifteen new velvet, super-comfy Lounge Chairs set on three tiers in an intimate room, surrounded by rich fabric, dark mahogany panelling, and soft lighting, it offers new and returning guests an ideal option to escape the rigours of life and enjoy some quality downtime with family, friends, or loved ones.
Other estate activities that can be organised include serenity walks, cycling, fishing, and the ancient sport of royalty—falconry—on-site.