Welcome to your ‘Local’s Guide’ to finding the best seafood restaurants in Galway. In this feature, we will take you into the heart of Galway’s food scene, exploring where to find the freshest catch and the best places to indulge in your favourite seafood delights.
With its rich seafood tradition, diverse culinary offerings, and commitment to sustainability, Galway is a seafood lover’s paradise.
A Taste of the Wild Atlantic Way
From generations of fishermen in Connemara, to bustling fish markets in the city, Galway’s vibrant seafood culture and connection to the Wild Atlantic ocean permeates the region’s culinary landscape.
The Best Fish & Chips in Galway
Our member venues are renowned for their seafood specialties and fine dinning specials, however you can’t visit Galway without first sampling traditional fish and chips. So first up – we’ve picked our favourites: Seven and The Front Door Pub:
Seven Bar
Dive into a culinary adventure with the Seven Bar’s signature Fish & Chips, a delectable delight that celebrates the essence of Galway’s coastal charm. Crafted with only the freshest, locally sourced fish, each bite is a testament to sustainability and flavour. Enveloped in a crispy Galway Hooker Pale Ale batter, every golden piece promises a crunchy exterior and a tender, flaky interior. Accompanied by chunky tartare sauce and velvety mushy peas, this classic dish is elevated to perfection.
Crispy, Golden and Delicious – The Front Door’s Fish & Chips!
Made with only the freshest market fish of the day, this dish is fried to perfection in a crispy batter that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. The fish is served alongside a generous helping of minted mushy peas, which are both flavourful and vibrant. To complement the dish, their expert chefs have whipped up a homemade tartar sauce that’s tangy, creamy and simply delicious. Their chips are crispy on the outside and perfectly fluffy on the inside, making them the ideal accompaniment to this staple dish.
Seafood Restaurants: A Taste of Galway
When it comes to dining out, Galway boasts an array of seafood restaurants that showcase the region’s finest local produce. No visit to Galway is complete without sampling some of it’s signature seafood dishes. Whether your palate yearns for globally-inspired dishes crafted from the finest locally-sourced ingredients, or you crave the comforting embrace of traditional Irish cuisine, we have curated a list of the premier seafood establishments in Galway to suit every taste.
Alma
Fragrant Cataplana
This dish embodies the heart and soul of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage, combined with locally sourced ingredients. The Cataplana is well known to have originated in the fishing villages of the Portuguese region of Algarve, where it’s now seen as a symbol of the local cuisine.
This culinary gem brims with a seafood symphony of clams, prawns and fish, combined with potatoes, onions, tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs and aromatic spices. Sealed within the Cataplana pot, this medley steams to perfection, infusing every bite with the essence and flavour of the sea. This dish cannot be separated from its social tradition – as the dish steams away, diners gather around to share both the dish and the joy of communal dining.
Aniar
Line caught mackerel with oyster emulsion, sea herbs and sea kale.
“As the weather warms up the mackerel search for food closer to the shore, this allowed us to buy some beautiful line caught mackerel from our supplier. It felt natural to pair it with a selection of aromatic sea herbs foraged on the beach, and we finished the dish with an oyster emulsion that added a creamy element to the dish with flavours from the sea”. Jp McMahon.
Brasserie on the Corner
Pan-fried Salmon Courgette & Butternut Parisienne with Warm Miso Dressing
Locally sourced ingredients, inventive flavours, and utilising the best seasonal produce is the mantra of Brasserie on the Corner. Experience culinary excellence with Brasserie on the Corner’s Pan-Fried Salmon, made using locally sourced ingredients and cooked to perfection by Head Chef Joe Flaherty. The dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours. The salmon is paired with a mouth-watering side of Courgette & Butternut Parisienne, which is made even more delectable with a warm miso dressing. This dish is flavour-filled and visually striking, with bursts of orange and purple against the salmon’s pink tint. This dish is a true culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving for more.
Cava Bodega
Tapas are not only a way of eating, they are a way of living! So whether you are popping in for a quick tapa and a glass of vino, or gathering with a group of friends or family, Cava Bodega is the perfect place to enjoy the tapas way of life!
Clams cooked in Fino sherry and a rich seafood (squid and prawns) tomato sauce.
Guys Bar, Clifden – Connemara
Guys Bar is one of the oldest establishments in Connemara. It is renowned for its local seafood and classic Irish dishes, and it’s definitely one of our top places to visit when heading out along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Guys seafood menu showcases the best of Connemara seafood from local suppliers, such as Dooncastle Oysters, Killary fjord shellfish and Connemara fisheries in Cornamona.
Shane O’Grady & family, continue the tradition started by his parents, who in the 1960s opened O’Grady’s seafood restaurant, one of the best known fish restaurants in Ireland at the time.
Today, Guy’s seafood specials include traditional Connemara Chowder, served with our original homemade brown bread, classic prawn cocktail, traditional fish and chips, Connemara smoked salmon, our famous seafood skillet and seafood specials featuring market fresh local fish.
Guy’s Bar – Seafood Restaurant
La Vissuta
La Vissuta is an Italian restaurant on the High Street in Tuam. Owned by Madrid native, Pedro Ledesma, who has an excellent relationship with his local fishmonger – Bertie Glancy at Galway Seafresh. Pedro looks at what is available for the Catch of the Day. He also buys a fresh seafood mix for paella and seafood risotto/pasta/pizza. One of the most popular ways he prepares ‘Catch of the Day’ is simply hake, or sea bream, pan-fried with lemon, salt and pepper and paprika. He might put fried cubes of chorizo on top and mussels on the side, or make skewers of monkfish and prawns to be served with seafood risotto.
The Best of the Sea at McSwiggans
McSwiggans Seafood & Steak Restaurant takes pride in serving the freshest seafood, sourced daily and prepared with care.
At the heart of the menu is fresh Atlantic salmon, baked to perfection, its flaky texture and rich flavour elevated with a delicate butter sauce. Then there are the Dooncastle oysters, shucked fresh from the shell—briny, sweet, and a true taste of the ocean. Whether you like them natural, with a squeeze of lemon, or dressed with a zingy mignonette, these oysters are a Galway treasure.
For those who love variety, the daily catch showcases the best the sea has to offer. Think pan-seared turbot, buttery and delicate, or a fillet of halibut, cooked just right and served with seasonal accompaniments. Then there are the steamed mussels, swimming in a fragrant white wine and garlic broth, perfect for mopping up with fresh bread.
And of course, no seafood experience is complete without the ultimate classic: fish and chips. Crispy, golden batter encasing fresh, flaky white fish, served with hand-cut chips and a side of house-made tartar sauce—comfort food at its finest.
Whether you’re a local seafood enthusiast or a visitor looking for an authentic taste of the west coast, McSwiggans is the place to be. Pull up a chair, order a feast from the sea, and let the flavours of the Atlantic do the talking.
Pota
Portán Potaithe | Potted Crab –
Our member venues are celebrated for their commitment to exceeding expectations, and ensuring unparalleled customer satisfaction. Pota exemplifies this dedication!Not only have they shared a gorgeous dish with crab from Niamh and Bertie on Inis Mór, Velvet Cloud Sheep’s Yoghurt, beautiful fresh fennel from Beechlawn and leaves from Garraí Glas – they went the extra mile and shared the recipe as well.
Grab your recipe card HERE in both Irish & English.
Blas na Gaillimhe – Portán Potaithe | Potted Crab
Bhí muid ag dul sa tseans go hiomlán leis an oideas seo i dtús ama. Is ag tagairt siar a bhí muid do na sean-mhodhanna coinnithe sliogéisc sula raibh caint ar veaineanna fuaraithe ná tada mar sin ann.
Bhí a fhios againn go raibh scoth an phortáin le fáil ó Niamh agus Bertie ar Inis Mór, bhí a fhios againn go raibh blas álainn ar Iógairt Chaorach Velvet Cloud ó Aisling agus Seán agus bhí a fhios againn go raibh finéal breá úr agu Pádraig agus Úna in Beechlawn. Chuireamar chuile rud le chéile le dullí áille úra ó Aonghus sa Gharraí Glas agus ar chaoi éigin d’oibrigh sé láithreach!
Is fearr an t-oideas seo a réiteach lá sula n-itheann tú é ach beidh sé go hálainn go fóill uair an chloig théis duit é a réiteach nuair a bheidh deis ag na blasanna ar fad teacht le chéile.
The Best Seafood Restaurants in Galway Guide
Thai Garden Galway
“Our Thai Style Seafood Chowder is a culinary fusion inspired by the breathtaking coastal charm of Galway and the vibrant flavours of Thailand. Made with the freshest locally sourced seafood and infused with aromatic Thai spices, it’s a taste of seaside bliss with an exotic twist”.
The Cellar Bar
Irish Oak Smoked Salmon
Indulge in the exquisite flavours of The Cellar Bar’s Irish oak smoked salmon, nestled atop freshly baked homemade brown bread. This culinary masterpiece is elevated with a zesty citrus and dill mayonnaise, delicate baby capers, and a refreshing lemon wedge. Accompanied by a vibrant salad garnish, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, celebrating the finest seafood traditions with a touch of Irish charm.
The Dáil Bar
Seafood Chowder
What seafood dish list is complete without the classic Seafood Chowder? Indulge in the exquisite taste of The Dáil Bar’s Seafood Chowder. This classic dish is expertly prepared by combining a variety of fresh and smoked fish, resulting in a flavourful and hearty meal that is sure to satisfy your appetite. The chowder’s creamy texture and rich flavour showcase the very best of Irish cuisine, making it a must-try dish for anyone who loves seafood. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Irish dishes or simply enjoy a good bowl of comforting chowder, The Dáil Bar’s Seafood Chowder is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Kings Head Galway. Seafood Lovers, Rejoice!
The Kings Head are serving up the very best of Irish seafood, fresh from the Atlantic to your plate. Think scallops, mussels, triple-cooked home-cut chips with homemade tartare sauce, crispy golden fish & chips, and the finest Turbot and crab claws—world-class and sourced sustainably.
And let’s not forget their award-winning chowder! Crowned Ireland’s Best for Sustainable Sourcing 2024 by Cully and Sully in collaboration with McKennas Guide, The King’s Head chowder is a reflection of their dedication to quality, seasonality, and responsible sourcing.
With head chef Brendan Keane at the helm, their seafood selection is so exceptional that their seafood bill outshines their meat costs year after year—a true testament to their love for seafood.
If you haven’t tasted Galway’s best seafood yet, now’s the time.
Tom Sheridan’s
Fillet of Hake
Treat your senses and savour the exquisite taste of a pan-fried fillet of Hake. Served with a medley of grilled vegetables boasting a tangy, fresh tomato flavour and a hint of smoky paprika, it is topped with an exquisite coriander olive tapenade that will leave you wanting more. As a perfect complement, a side of soft, creamy boiled baby potatoes completes the dish. Enhance your culinary experience with their perfectly paired wine offering!
12 Hotel
Oceanic Delight Duo | Pan-Fried Filet of Hake
Hake filet with miso-goat curd, broccolini, chili, baby potatoes, and mustard beurre blanc.
Stuffed Squid: Squid with sundried tomato, chorizo, potato, chives
West Restaurant
We couldn’t possibly share ‘The Best Seafood Restaurants in Galway’ guide, without a lobster dish…
So check out this gorgeous Galway Bay Pot Lobster, Coconut, Lemongrass, Finger lime and Chilli.
This beautiful dish is local and sustainably caught lobster, poached, grilled gently over embers, then finished with a spicy Thai broth and finger lime. This is currently the 3rd course served on West Restaurant’s 8 course tasting menu.
Cooking with Galway’s Seafood
No seafood blog would be worth it’s while without some pasta dishes. So, we bring you the master of pasta – Tony Casa.
Bring the taste of Galway’s seafood into your own kitchen with these simple, fun and easy to follow pasta cooking classes. With the freshest ingredients at your fingertips, cooking with Galway’s seafood is a culinary adventure waiting to happen – and Tony will show you how!
Check out Pasta a Casa Classes, with Tony
“Cozze e patate (mussels and potato) is a classic dish from Naples. Personally, I love a good carb on carb option, from a chip butty to a sausage and potato pizza. As always, I use the best local, organic and seasonal produce I can find – and for this dish I used some beautiful mussels from Kelly’s Oysters“. Tony
GNOCCHETTI X CLAMS X MUSSELS X SQUID
“Every year in Italy I have a dish in a restaurant by the sea that involves small gnocchi and local seafood. This video is my take on this traditional dish, using local ingredients at their very best”. Tony
KILLARY MUSSELS
WEXFORD SURF CLAMS
GREENCASTLE SQUID
ORGANIC BEETROOT
FORAGED WILD GARLIC
ORGANIC ROOSTER POTATOES
The dish is finished with wild garlic oil and Italian bottarga.
Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona duit
Gran Grans Sauces
Cooking at home has never got easier with Gran Grans sauces:
“We can proudly say that our seafood sauces are the only ones made in Ireland. Most of them like Collmans or Bramwell’s are from Britain . We produce them all in our kitchen in Kilcolgan. Co. Galway. Our range includes Tartare Sauce, Dill sauce and Marie Rose sauce. All made in small batches and Gluten free”.
Seafood Festivals and Events
Throughout the year, Galway hosts a variety of seafood festivals and events that celebrate the region’s maritime heritage. From the Galway International Oyster Festival to a month-long series of food celebrations with Blas na Bealtaine – these events offer the perfect opportunity to sample local seafood delicacies, while soaking up Galway’s lively atmosphere.
Sustainable Seafood Practices
In Galway, sustainability is key when it comes to seafood. With a growing awareness of the importance of preserving our oceans, many local seafood businesses are committed to sustainable fishing practices. By choosing seafood that’s been sourced responsibly, you can enjoy your meal with peace of mind, knowing it’s been harvested in an environmentally friendly manner.
Our Seafood Producers:
Galway Bay Seafoods, The Docks, Galway.
Gannet Fishmongers, Ballybane, Galway.
Hooked – Ali’s Fish Market, Henry Street, Galway.
Oysters
Dooncastle Oysters, Connemara.
Kellys Oysters, Kilkcolgan, County Galway.
Smoke House
Thank you for reading our Best Seafood Restaurants in Galway Guide – Our next feature will guide you to Galway’s finest Tapas and Sharing Plates.
