The cinematic scenery isn’t the only reason to travel the Wild Atlantic Way tourist trail. Stretching along Ireland’s entire west coast, it also takes in prime foodie locations from Cork all the way up to Donegal. These spectacular restaurants along the route are the perfect places at which to refuel, relax and enjoy meals made by some of the country’s best chefs.
Owned and operated by husband and wife team JP McMahon and Drigín Gaffey, the Michelin-starred Aniar in Galway showcases the best of that county and the wider West of Ireland in their menu. McMahon is the brains behind the annual Food on the Edge symposium, which saw world-renowned chefs like Massimo Bottura gather in Galway, most recently in October 2016. Aniar’s authentic farm-to-table ethos is sensitive to the changing seasons, with a tasting menu that changes daily and details an extensive list of local suppliers.
Ard Bia at Nimmos is one of the most popular restaurants in the whole of Ireland, not just the West. Known for its quality gourmet food, warm and welcoming atmosphere and being one of few spots in County Galway that serve 3fE coffee, this place is something of a hidden gem – locals like to keep it to themselves, and for good reason. Reservations are pretty much essential if you want to get a table here and enjoy their flavourful dishes. Highlights include the pea, broad bean and wild garlic risotto, but they also do a mean brunch.
Ard Bia at Nimmos, Spanish Arch, Long Walk, Galway, Ireland, +353 91 561 114