15-05-2025
Six spots in Galway to dine al fresco as sunshine remains on the menu
According to Met Eireann, temperatures are set to reach heights of 23C in Connacht over the next few days and conditions are due to stay dry.
With that in mind, there's no better excuse to head into the city for dinner and drinks al fresco to enjoy the warm sun and the grand stretch in the evening.
Around this time of year, Galway's Westend opens up into Dominick Street with most restaurants and bars putting their tables and chairs out for the summer season.
Unfortunately the annual ritual is facing a delay this year after a legal challenge to the pedestrianisation of some of streets.
Thankfully there are still spots across the city to enjoy some outdoor dining and soak up the sunshine – while it lasts.
Cava Bodega
Helmed by top Galway chef JP McMahon of Aniar, this tapas restaurant residing on Middle Street has the perfect suntrap locked down for those wanting to immerse themselves in the buzzy atmosphere of the Latin Quarter. With an extensive wine list, it's also the perfect spot to pretend you're in Spain.
Sangria
Sticking with tapas and Middle Street, Sangria sets itself apart with an inventive drinks menu to enjoy alongside some patatas bravas or padron peppers. Their outside seating is a great spot to enjoy the hotter temperature while we have it.
The Universal
This small plates restaurant is an underrated gem, and the outside seating is a great spot to enjoy the atmosphere of the city's West end area. While the outside seating area isn't as large as it usually is this time of year, you can still book one of their outside tables for dinner and drinks.
Dough Bros
A Galway institution, Dough Bros has gained a reputation for fantastic pizza done well. While its Middle Street branch only offers seating inside, there's always the option to get a pizza and enjoy it along the Claddagh. Then as always, pizza fans can also enjoy Dough Bros in O'Connell's pub beer garden. More recently, Dough Bros owners opened Lil' Bros, a New York-style takeaway spot where you can get a large pizza slice to take away. Just keep an eye out for hungry seagulls!
Freddy's
Another great spot for pizza, Freddy's places you right in the thick of things as it resides along the busy Latin Quarter area. As the city's tourist season is in full swing, it may be difficult to secure a spot – but once you do, it's entirely worth it.
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Ruibin
Well known as one of Galway's most popular restaurants, the dockside eatery provides outdoor picnic-style tables for diners to enjoy the sea breeze while sipping on one of their famous cocktails and savouring a small plate or two.
