All Aboard for Fine Dining: Galway's Rare Taste of the Orient Express
Lovers of fine food and unique dining experiences will find Galway an epicurean delight.
Pullman Restaurant, Glenlo Abbey Estate, Co Galway
Galway city, sitting on Ireland’s spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, is fast becoming a must-visit destination for those seeking superb local dishes, innovative chefs, and authentic culinary experiences. From fine dining to artisan food outlets there is much to be savoured in this bohemian city.
The Pullman restaurant offers one of the best food experiences in Ireland with its combination of unique surroundings and culinary excellence. The restaurant is housed in two original carriages of the Orient Express, Leona and Linda, which have a special place in the history of European travel.
The carriages sit in the beautiful grounds of five-star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate fitting perfectly in an environment where old-world charm meets contemporary elegance. The Pullman recently underwent an extensive refurbishment, elevating the space while preserving many original details such as intricate wooden marquetry and brass light fittings. The kitchen 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. The result is a truly unforgettable experience where food, atmosphere, and history blend together.
Galway Food
Among many other fine dining options in Galway city are Aniar and Oscar’s Seafood Bistro.
Aniar is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its tasting menu that focuses on seasonal and sustainable produce. Chef patron JP McMahon uses wild and foraged local ingredients and old traditional cooking and preservation methods, aiming to reflect the distinct flavours of this part of the Wild Atlantic Way.
At Oscar’s Seafood Bistro you will find seasonal seafood freshly caught and taken to new heights under the direction of chef Michael O’Meara. And you can take a taste of the menu home with you as Michael also authored Sea Gastronomy, winner of the Best Seafood Cookbook in the World Gourmand Cookbook Awards. The bistro is situated on Dominick Street in Galway’s historic West End, a hub for both live music and quiet pints.
A short trip from Galway city to the seaside resort of Salthill will take you to Blackrock Cottage where modern Irish cuisine is served within a beautifully renovated 1830s cottage. Another multi-award-winning restaurant, it serves up wonderful food in a historic setting with amazing views over Galway Bay.
Galway Food Tour, Galway City
A great way to continue your culinary journey around Galway is on a Galway Food Tour. Led by expert foodie Sheena Dignam, the tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at Galway’s best local fare, taking you to artisan producers, cheese makers, creative beer projects, chocolatiers and other champions of the region’s gourmet offerings. Here you can discover the best ingredients and dishes while soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant city.