This is Galway - January/February 2018 Edition - Issue #6

JAN - FEB 2018 // FREE // THISISGALWAY.IE

ISSUE # 6

WHAT’S INSIDE 4-5

SHEENA DIGNAM // Food Tours of Galway and beyond

8-11

DATE NIGHT // Something a bit more special than a Supermac’s

12-13

CONNACHT RUGBY // Looking forward with Ronan Loughney

14-18

HEALTHY BUZZ // Because we can’t live on a diet of mince pies all year (too bad)

20-21

WIDE EYES // A new festival for small people

22-25

WINE BARS // White or red? Spanish or French? Galway gives you plenty of options

26-27

FRESH FACES, NEW PLACES // Welcoming new businesses to the streets of Galway

28-31

WHAT’S ON // The best of live music, theatre and more around Galway

WHO WE ARE...

Art Direction & Design Martin Browne info@thisisgalway.ie

Photography Boyd Challenger boyd@thisisgalway.ie

Editor Caitlin Foley caitlin@thisisgalway.ie

Advertising Queries Maxi Browne maxi@thisisgalway.ie Ian Burke ian@thisisgalway.ie

FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD If you’ve ever found yourself wondering who, exactly, grows the ‘local, seasonal produce’ that’s come to the forefront of the Irish food scene; or the story behind that cosy medieval pub; or where the chef from your favourite restaurant gets his inspiration, Sheena Dignam has a tour for that.

Words: CAITLIN FOLEY

Photography by Boyd Challenger

FEATURE reland’s burgeoning food scene is one of the best things to come out of the last few years...

Where once, tourists -- and even locals -- might have pulled a face at the thought of “Irish food” (what is it, really, and is it mushy?), that idea is being revolutionised.

Sheena Dignam’s Food Tours of Galway offer a window into that revolution. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering who, exactly, grows the ‘local, seasonal produce’ that’s come to the forefront of the Irish food scene; or the story behind that cosy medieval pub; or where the chef from your favourite restaurant gets his inspiration, Sheena Dignam has a tour for that.

Her longest-running and most popular tours are her Galway Food Tours.

Her longest-running and most popular tours are her Galway Food Tours. The day tours explore cafes, pubs and restaurants, where you’ll sample something from each and learn about the people who made it. It might be vegetarian sushi, tea-infused cake, or a locallybrewed craft pint -- but whatever it is, you can be sure it’s delicious and has a story behind it, which Sheena has taken care to learn.

That’s possibly the best and most unique aspect of Sheena’s Food Tours -- with every morsel, a story. Sheena never brings a group anywhere without first getting an understanding for the heart of a place, its people, and its ethos.

She’s started designing bespoke food tours through Connemara, Aran, East Galway, and Clare After three years, though, Sheena’s got a lot more on her plate. She’s started designing bespoke food tours through Connemara, Aran, East Galway, and Clare, for visiting foodies in conjunction with Connemara Pub Tours. She corresponds with these groups to see where their interest lies, and takes them to a mix of pubs, farms and restaurants to get a feeling -- and a taste -- for Connemara food.

Her new initiative in 2018 is a tour which gets chefs involved, who are at the helm of Ireland’s new food. She hopes to bring chefs in from all over the world, along with a tour group of interested foodies, to explore Ireland’s food at its source. These groups will go local oyster banks to collect oysters; to the butchers to select the perfect cut; and to local farms, to gather seasonal veg where it grows. Then, of course, they’ll cook a meal with all the gorgeous local ingredients from Ireland’s west coast.

Sheena hopes that this will be a way to highlight a chef’s contribution and dedication, as well as the high-quality fresh food the west coast has to offer. galwayfoodtours@gmail.com // www.galwayfoodtours.com

PAGE.5.

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PAGE.6.

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DATE NIGHT keep the romance alive at one of these great Galway spots...

FOOD

EAT: DATE NIGHT

GOOD FOOD IN GREAT COMPANY...

Our checklist for the perfect date night includes these things: a nice place with great food, a romantic atmosphere, dessert, and shifting. We can’t promise you the shift, but we guarantee you the rest -- just read on.

Basilico The bistro at the front is perfect for a more casual get-together, but if it’s a date night you’re after, the restaurant in the back is just the thing. The elegant atmosphere feels like a treat, and the food is nothing short of delicious.

Main Street, Oranmore // +353 (0)91 483693

Restaurant Gemelle’s This beautiful, intimate restaurant will set the mood, and it’s right in the centre of the Latin Quarter so you can keep the night going afterward! A lovely menu offers just the right amount of choice from sharing plates and tapas to steak and scallops.

23 Quay Street, Galway City // +353 (0)91 568821

Venice Restaurant We can’t give you a night in Italy, but the next best thing is a visit to Venice Restaurant.

They offer delicious Italian food to savour in a charming restaurant, and generous portions will keep everyone happy.

11 Abbeygate Street Lower, Galway City // +353 (0)91 530751

PAGE.9.

FOOD Umbrella Asian Tapas Stepping inside this restaurant transports you to another world -- maybe to an Eastern market. Umbrellas and birdcages are suspended from the ceiling, giving this new restaurant a fun, personable vibe that’s different for Galway. Savour their delicious Asian-style sharing plates and you have a great night ahead of you.

2 Middle Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 561443

' WHENEVER I WANT A REALLY NICE MEAL I START DATING AGAIN '

Osteria Italiana da Simone This charming Italian restaurant brings authentic Tuscania flavour straight to Galway. If your idea of a perfect date night puts a focus on great food, you’re in for a treat. Indulge your sweetheart (and your taste buds) in rich Italian-style garlic bread, pastas and salads, and don’t miss the homemade tiramisu…

3 St Francis Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 564 850

Nox Nox Hotel has burst onto the food scene since its successful opening in June 2015, and even more so with the recent branding of their popular restaurant, FORK. They were inspired by a growing demand for healthy, tasty food on the outskirts of Galway City. To this end, each dish in Fork is cooked to order with a focus on quality produce, prepared fresh daily using local suppliers, and the team are always happy to create dishes for specific dietary needs. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, but lunch is where they really shine! You can even pre-order your meal ahead of time if you’re pressed for time by calling the number below.

Nox Hotel, a unique and contemporary hotel, is located on the Headford Road at the entrance to Liosban Industrial Estate, making Fork an ideal spot for a group of friends meeting up, for business meetings or just a bite to eat with hassle free and complimentary parking.

Headford Road, Galway City // +353(0)91 735555 Photo by Julia Dunin

Le Petit Pois If French is the language of love, French food is the bread and butter. Le Petit Pois offer gorgeous, delicate French cuisine that always feels like a special treat, and their wine pairings are always perfect. For an elegant and memorable night, think French!

Victoria Place, The Archway, Galway // +353(0)91 330880

PAGE.11.

T

he departure of Pat Lam from the Sportsground was initially seen by many as a possible step backward for a Connacht team that had enjoyed success for the first time ever only two years previous. Despite some early concerns among supporters, the narrative soon changed to one of optimism. There was a sense that this was an opportunity to bring someone on board who could take this promising young squad to the next level.

Kieran Keane’s first 5 months at the helm has had its ups and downs and at times proved challenging. However, throughout this time we’ve seen glimpses of a system that Keane is trying to introduce that gives serious cause for optimism. Connacht registered just 1 win from their first six games beating the newcomers Southern Kings in round 2. Despite a disappointing points haul from those first batch of league games we saw signs of an ambitious attacking system that looks to empower players to use their natural skill and decision making and have a go when they feel an opportunity is at hand. We also saw a clear defensive structure that created turnovers and pressured teams into mistakes, albeit applied far too inconsistently throughout these opening games.

The Challenge Cup provided an opportunity to get back to winning ways and a good result against Oyonnax away was the start of a four match winning streak which saw good performances and much needed wins against Worcester, Munster and Cheetahs.

For their next 2 games Connacht looked inconsistent in their performance and struggled to apply the new systems introduced

by Keane. This resulted in a tough defeat to Cardiff and a very disappointing loss against Zebre in Italy. However, cup rugby again provided the opportunity for Connacht to get back to some form. As can often be the way when playing in a hostile French ground, an excellent come back against Brive seemed to be galvanising for this team and confidence was elevated for the return leg in Galway.

FEATURE

Back to back wins against Brive left Connacht in a strong position coming into the Christmas interpros. Ulster bore the brunt of a coming together of the accurate execution of newly introduced systems and a team playing with the confidence of a few wins at their back. This was a very well rounded performance and we saw key players within the Connacht team playing with massive self-assurance.

The record win against Ulster saw Connacht looking confidently for a first win in the RDS and a result against Leinster for the first time since 2002. Despite a slow start Connacht fought their way back into the game and looked likely to edge a historic result right until the 85th minute of the game. Unfortunately, an incredible Leinster defence brought a disappointing end to what was a strong performance from the Connacht players.

With every new coach it takes time for them to put their stamp on a group of players and it has been no different with Keane.

With every new coach it takes time for them to put their stamp on a group of players and it has been no different with Keane.

But we now see players who look very comfortable operating within these new systems and playing with the confidence that comes from that. The game time that all members of the squad have received through rotation and the lowest injury records for years due to excellent player management by coaching and S&C staff gives massive cause for optimism heading into this new year. Without doubt Connacht will be heading to Thomond Park this week looking for a repeat of that famous victory 2 years ago and to get their year off to a winning start. Roll on 2018.

Words: RONAN LOUGHNEY

PAGE.13.

HEALTHY NEW YEAR BUZZ...

Whether you’ve made big New Year’s resolutions or not, the beginning of the new year is a great time to start stepping out of the winter hibernation and preparing yourself for an exciting year ahead. Spring is just around the corner, so it’s time to set aside the mince pies (maybe), get active, and get some vegetables into ya!

Doing the same again this year?

December 2017

Last year, Devlin didn’t.

He didn’t join the same gym as everyone else, the one where you show up three times and never again, just like he’d always done vefore.

He needed a place that listened to him, worked with him, and gave him advice he could use.

A place where he could go at his pace, keeping in mind his start point and end goal.

Because you can’t get results like this without a plan.

Try our 2 week trial for €67

Don’t like it? Get you money back.

“If you had told me last year it would be so easy to get to this, with only a few hours a week, I would never have believed you”

Devlin Connaughton

Maximum Results Maximum Results is Galway’s best-kept health and fitness secret.

Home to one of Ireland’s biggest Powerlifting clubs, it’s a little haven for everyone from absolute beginners through to models and world class strength athletes and martial artists.

Open since 2011, Maximum Results has a team of personal trainers, coaches, nutritional therapists, and sports injury and rehabilitation therapists. They provide everything from beginners’ health and fitness programs, bootcamps, 1-1 training, professional strength coaching, nutrition and massage.

2018 is an exciting year as they move into a newer, larger premises with more classes, programs, equipment and opportunities for new and existing clients.

Head coach Max Lauth said, “We welcome everyone of all ages, shapes and sizes at Maximum Results. We treat everyone the same, and believe that the only thing that matters is effort and attitude.” +353 (0)87 358 5630 maximum.results@hotmail.com facebook.com/maximumresultstraining Unit 42 Briarhill Business Park, Galway

PAGE.15.

Read More on: www.FoundationFT.com Phone: 091 766681

January 2017

d e r i p s n i be with

Slimming World If one of your 2018 goals is to look a bit leaner, Slimming World is a great way to get support, eat the foods you like, and come out on the other side looking and feeling even more fabulous than before. It’s more than a diet plan -- it’s a lifestyle change that helps you keep the weight off once you lose it, through making healthy choices and getting a little more active. Members get the experience of their consultant, and the support and encouragement of a group on the same journey. Galway Slimmers lost a whopping total of 100,000 pounds in 2017!

www.slimmingworld.ie // +353 (0)1 6569696

Annette Rabbitte

Carmel Quinn

Linda Arnold

Christina NicDhonnacha

Rita Reddington

Annette was able to get rid of lifelong back pain by joining Slimming World and losing 4.5 stone. She says it’s the best decision she’s ever made, and from there wanted to help others change their lives as a consultant.

Carmel says, “When I took my first steps through the doors of Slimming World five years ago, I really didn’t know what to expect… When I heard that I could still enjoy all my favourite foods like pasta and curry I couldn’t believe it.” Her group is a great bunch of people and new members are always welcomed into the fold.

Linda had always struggled with her weight but reached a turning point after seeing photos of herself on her sons 1st birthday. She decided to join Slimming World and was made to feel welcome by Niamh and the members at the Westwood group. "As a busy working mom, it was fantastic to still be able to lose weight while enjoying all of our favourite family meals!"Linda has gone on to lose 6 stone and is now happy to spread the Slimming World love with her own group.

Christina runs groups on Mondays & Wednesdays with both running at 5.30pm & 7.30pm; Mondays in Tigh Darby, Bealadangan & Wednesdays in The Salthill Hotel.

Both groups had amazing weight losses and have lost over1,000 stone between them. Christina is a Target member with Slimming World & recently had her first baby. She Food Optimised throughout her pregnancy, managing her cravings and fitting them into the 3 steps of the plan. That’s the great thing about Slimming World - no food is banned.

After trying many unsuccessful ways to lose weight, Rita decided in January that 2017 was going to be her year that she would achieve her dream. She joined Slimming World and was delighted that she could still eat so much delicious free food that she already loved! With the encouragement and support she received from group each week she never once felt like she was on her own or that she was being judged.

Headford. Anglers Rest Hotel.

Wednesdays: 7.30pm.

Moylough Community Hall.

Thursday: 9.30am, 5.30pm, 7.30pm Annette: +353 (0)87 6377934

Claregalway, Hughes SuperValu Tuesdays: 5.30pm, 7.30pm.

Carmel: +353 (0)89 4932762 Join our group in Killannin Community Centre on Saturday mornings at 9.30am & 11.30am.

Linda: +353 (0)87 6577383

Rita will open her own group as a consultant in Ard Ri House Hotel, Tuam on Jan 4th at 7.30 pm.

For more information, call Christina: +353 (0)85 1343050. For info call Rita on 087 1182664

HEALTH & FITNESS

Claire Flaherty

Jacqueline Leydon

Louise Leufer

Yvonne Briscoe

Clare Flaherty lost over three stone with Slimming World, and loves it so much she now runs two groups of her own. Claire is a new mom and currently back on plan, shredding the baby weight!

Jacqueline joined Slimming World six years ago and couldn’t believe that she could still enjoy all her favourite foods, from pasta, steak and chips to her favourite dessert.

She loved the plan so much she decided to open the first group in Galway!

Louise says, “Slimming World has changed my life for the better. The plan really works, and works quickly.”

Let today be the start of something amazing with Slimming World’s newest consultant in the Galway area!

Yvonne’s Loughrea group sets you up each week to help you get your weight losses, and keep you focused, inspired and excited. Yvonne says, “We love to share recipes and try out new foods and motivate each other each week. Nothing is off limits with Slimming World!”

The Connacht Hotel, Galway.

Mondays: 5.30, 7.30pm St. James GAA clubhouse, Michael Collins Road, Mervue.

Thursday's: 5:30 & 7:30pm

Menlo Park Hotel, Galway.

Wednesdays: 7.30am, 9.30am, 11.30am, 3.30pm, 5.30pm, 7.30pm

Tuam, Ard Ri House Hotel.

Wednesdays: 9.30am, 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

Loughrea Hotel and Spa. Wednesdays: 9.30am, 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

Louise +353 (0)86 8214348.

Jacqueline +353 (0)85 8520701

Yvonne +353 (0)87 2979140

Claire +353 (0)87 9231629

Sonya Flanagan

Caroline Higgins

Cathy Dillon

Emma Walsh

Sonya Joined Slimming World in Athenry in January 2015 with the aim of losing two stone. Once she reached that, she made her target five stone!

Sonya says, “As a busy mum of two teenagers I find the plan very family-friendly.”

Caroline joined Slimming World in 2013. Weary of trying to find clothes to fit properly, she had reached her tipping point with her weight issues.

She joined the Athlone group and within nine months had lost an amazing 7 stone. Her Ballinasloe group is now running 4 years and has supported numerous members in achieving their weight loss goals!

Cathy, a busy mum of three, has changed her life by losing over two stone in six months. Cathy joined Slimming World in January 2013, and immediately felt welcomed. Now, she wants to share her experience and knowledge with others!

Emma joined Slimming World a year ago; within that time she has transformed her relationship with food, gained a support network to help her weight loss journey and has lost 2 stone 3.5lbs!

Joining Slimming World has put Emma on the path to a healthier happier self!

Clarinbridge, Paddy Burkes Pub. Mondays: 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

Gort, Lady Gregory Hotel.

Thursdays: 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

Athenry. Athenry Community Hall.

Tuesday’s: 9:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Sonya: +353 (0)87 2263224

PAGE.17.

Ballinasloe. The Shearwater Hotel Monday's: 3:30pm, 5:30pm, 7:30pm.

Tuesday's: 9:30pm & 7:30pm.

Caroline: +353 (0)87 9650580.

Oranmore, The Maldron Hotel Thursdays: 7.30am, 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, and 7.30pm Cathy +353 (0)86 8334484

Barna, Barna School Hall, Scoil Sheamais Naofa.

Mondays: 7.30pm Saturdays: 9.30am & 11.30am Emma: +353 (0)85 2544220

Sandra Lee

Emily Quinn

Lynn Hoary

Niamh Hoary

Sandra joined Slimming World in September, 2017. She couldn t believe that a food plan, on which she could have unlimited amounts of Free Food, could help her lose weight. From day one, she found it easy to follow the food optimising plan and lost 8lbs in her first week! She has now lost a stone and a half and is well on her way to target.

Emily joined Slimming World in April after years of struggling with her weight.

Having tried many weight loss methods in the past she was shocked when her consultant told her she could eat what she wanted. All she had to do was make simple changes to how these meals were cooked. Emily fell in love with the plan from day one.

Lynn has struggled with her weight for years and has tried many weight loss programs in the past. But like many of us ended up feeling humiliated, deprived and heavier than before. But after Slimming World, she has gone on to lose 4 and a half stone and feels like she’s got her life back!.

Niamh runs a Slimming World group in the Westwood Hotel and also manages a team of 14 consultants across Galway city and County.

When she first joined Slimming World she thought it was too good to be true.

She loved the group so much that she decided to become a consultant to help as many people as possible!

NEW GROUP: Inverin, An Poitin Stil Tuesdays: 7:30pm

The Ardilaun Hotel, Galway City.

New group opening January 4th at 7:30pm.

Oranmore Community Centre New group opening January 6th at 9:30am.

The Westwood Hotel, Dangan, Galway City.

Tuesdays: 5:30pm & 7:30pm

Sandra +353 (0)87 6065255

Emily: +353 (0)85 2199771

Lynn: +353 (0)87 9247409

Niamh 087-9638809

GALWAY DISCOVER YOUR CITY

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WIDE EYES A EUROPEAN CELEBRATION OF PERFORMING ARTS FOR BABIES AND CHILDREN 17 organisations from 15 countries to present new dance and theatre shows for 0-6 year olds 1 – 4 February, 2018 | Galway

B

aboró International Arts Festival for Children will host an exciting and imaginative one-off programme of theatre and dance shows for babies and children aged 0 – 6 years from 1 – 4 February in Galway. Presented by Irish and international artists, Wide Eyes is a four-day European celebration which will present to Galway’s youngest citizens, fifteen new shows made especially for early years. Baboró is excited to share its passion of presenting unique creative arts experiences for babies and young children with its European partners.

Wide Eyes is the culmination of a four-year ‘Small size, Performing Arts for Early Years’ project with European partners from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, UK and Ireland. Baboró, the only Irish partner in the ‘Small size’ project, will host Wide Eyes in venues throughout Galway city. The event is being hosted outside of Baboró’s existing annual festival for children, which takes place in Galway each October.

Wide Eyes will see 140 arts professionals from 17 organisations and 15 countries gather in Galway to present an extravaganza of new dance and theatre shows for 0-6 year olds inspired by two simple words: Wide eyes. Wide eyes are the eyes of babies and children, open as they look at the world, eager to take in every detail, hungry for knowledge and always capable of amazement.

The concept for Wide Eyes is rooted in the belief that children are never too young to quite literally have their eyes opened wide in amazement while they experience the performing arts. The programme will feature performances for schools, crèches and families, produced by some of Europe’s finest creators of Early Years work, as well as professional development workshops and industry symposia.

As part of the Wide Eyes programme, Baboró and Branar Téatar do Phistí, will present a non-verbal show for children aged 3-6 years called uoo, mee, weee! Directed by Lali Morris and Branar’s Marc Mac Lochlainn, uoo, mee, weee! will mark Baboró’s first ever production for children.

Aislinn ÓhEocha, Baboró’s Executive Artistic Director commenting on Wide Eyes said: “At Baboró we believe you’re never too young to be an audience member so we’re very excited about hosting this major one-off event dedicated exclusively to children aged 0 – 6 years. It’s been a privilege to be part of an international network like Small size, and to work with organisations who are equally passionate about developing work for younger audiences. For Baboró to host Wide Eyes in Galway is a real honour. We’re looking forward to welcoming our European counterparts to Galway this February, and to sharing their work with babies, children and families over four jam-packed days. We’re also excited to present our first ever production for children, together with our co-producing partners, Branar Téatar do Pháistí.”

Wide Eyes is funded through the Arts Council’s Making Great Art Work award, Creative Europe, Creative Ireland, Galway 2020 and Galway City Council.

Wide Eyes is hosted by Baboró International Arts Festival for Children and will take place in Galway from Thursday 1st Feb – Sunday 4th February, 2018. The full programme can be viewed on www.wideeyesgalway.ie Baboró Online http://baboro.ie F https://www.facebook.com/BaboroGalway T https://twitter.com/BaboroGalway | @BaboroGalway #Baboro

PAGE.21.

WINE BARS... time to wine down...

DRINK

DRINK: WINE BARS

TIME TO WINE DOWN...

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, an amateur sommelier, or one of those people who can’t tell the difference between boxed wine from Lidl and Loire Valley’s best (no judgment), there’s a wine bar in Galway for you.

West Restaurant Upstairs at West Restaurant has won plenty of awards for their wine experience, from The Best Wine List in Ireland to the Georgina Campbell Wine Award. This elegant restaurant truly celebrates a love of wine, with experienced sommeliers ready to offer pairing recommendations and a menu that’s made to be enjoyed with a glass.

Upstairs at The Twelve, Barna Coast Road, Barna // +353(0)91 597000

Kasbah Wine Bar Above Tigh Neachtain’s is this chic and airy wine bar, with a global wine menu that extends from New Zealand to California (the long way around!) They offer vegan, biodynamic and organic wines, which pair perfectly with their tapas-style sharing platters. Enjoy outside and watch the world pass by if the weather allows!

3 Quay Street, Galway City // +353(0)85 7340164

Tartare Cafe and Wine Bar This new cafe offers an intimate, rustic atmosphere inspired by the cafes of Copenhagen.

In the evening, they have sharing plates of local cheese and charcuterie, and of course a lovely selection of wine. Their menu focuses on organic, biodynamic and natural wine.

50 Dominick Street Lower, Galway’s Westend // +353(0)91 567803

PAGE.23.

The Universal Polished, retro and trendy, the Universal in Galway’s Westend is perfect for enjoying a glass or two in great company. They also serve an eclectic, delicious food menu from 4pm, so stay a while!

9 William Street West, Galway’s Westend // +353(0)91 728271

Il Vicolo This lovely Italian restaurant overlooking the river places an emphasis on Italian wines, of course. The owners take trips to Italy’s wine country to explore the best of what Italy has to offer, and brings that knowledge back to Galway for us to enjoy.

Bridge Mills, Galway City // +353(0)91 530515

Deli la Tasca This tapas restaurant brings a wonderful Spanish wine experience, especially when paired with their delicious Spanish tapas. Sit down at the bar and enjoy a glass of wine and a bit of food, or take a table and spend a long luxurious evening with a bottle and sharing plates.ortable. They serve great food, too, if you’re in the mood for some tasty grub!

1 Upper Dominick Street, Galway’s Westend // +353(0)85 108 2115

DRINK

Sheridan’s Cheesemongers & Wine Bar They are, of course, best known for an amazing cheese selection -- but what pairs better with cheese than a glass of wine? Head upstairs for this fun grocer-style wine bar overlooking St Nicholas’ Square. They put an emphasis on Italian-style wines, which go perfectly with their cheese and charcuterie sharing boards.

Church Yard Street, Galway City // +353(0)91 564 832

Rouge Restaurant This French-inspired restaurant is cosy and intimate. They often have live music, and they always have delicious dinners and cheese boards. And of course, they always have wine! They’re open past midnight so it’s a great place to meet up with friends for chats over a few glasses of red.

38 Dominick Street, Galway’s Westend // +353(0)91 530 681

'WHAT I LIKE TO DRINK MOST IS WINE THAT BELONGS TO OTHERS' -Diogenes PAGE.25.

&

FRESH PLACES NEW FACES! Brand spanking new businesses to check out in Galway!

Ground & Co. This new cafe in Salthill boasts amazing views of the Salthill prom, plus great people and great food! An in-house bakery means the cafe always smells delicious and is filled with all kinds of tasty treats. They also serve up brunch, burgers, salads and sandwiches, as well as some tasty coffee!

Seapoint Promenade, Salthill // +353 (0)87 966 7119

NEW to GALWAY Snap Fitness This new 24/7 gym is fully equipped and easily accessible, right off of Eyre Square. Members can enjoy daily group classes in everything from HIIT to Pilates, virtually guided workouts, and a ton of brand new equipment. After their popularity in the U.K., Galway is their first Irish location!

Citypoint, Prospect Hill, Galway City // +353 (0)91 567828

SALT at the Glass Factory Colourful, trendy and full of gorgeous crystal chandeliers -- that’s SALT’s new location on the Dublin Road! It features the characteristic charm and colourful good vibes of the Salthill location, but the focus here is on breakfast and lunch.

Galway Crystal Factory, Old Dublin Road // +353(0)91 757 311

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WHAT’S going ON?

WHAT’S ON

JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS _

Photo: RTE Press Centre

Electric presents Boots & Kats

Hardy Bucks

Distinctive disco and funk influences will get you moving on Electric’s main dancefloor.

Boots & Kats have played sold-out shows across the country, headlined a District 8 show as well as Dublin festivals. They always bring a feel-good atmosphere and huge energy so get ready for a great night!

Buzz, Salmon and The Viper of The Hardy Bucks are back for a live show at Monroe’s Live. The Hardy Bucks perform their jaw dropping, titillating, gouch tickling, buzz chortle of a live show on Thursday 18th January.

18 January // Electric Garden & Theatre // Clubbing

18 January // Monroe’s Live // Comedy

Subtitle Film Festival

Akumakon

Hayseed Dixie

A weekend of the best from the Subtitle Film Festival offers popular comedies and dramas, which were huge hits in their own countries -- and now they’re accessible through English subtitles!

Akumakon 2018 is a celebration of anime, manga and Japanese culture. There will be panels, traders, artists, video games, special events and more. Special guests include; Josh Grelle, Luce Cosplay, Thelema Therion Cosplay, MasakoX, Super Eyepatch Wolf and many more.

Hayseed Dixie play Galway on 27 January. Having sold over half a million albums worldwide and having played more than 1,000 live shows on every continent except Antarctica, Hayseed Dixie are acknowledged as the creators of the musical genre "Rockgrass.".

26 January through 28 January // Town Hall Theatre // Film

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19 January through 21 January // Áras na Mac Léinn // Festival

27 January // Roisin Dubh // Live Music

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS Wide Eyes hosted by Baboró This one-off, four-day festival is a celebration of performing arts for the very young! Events will range from performances for schools, creches and families; professional development workshops; and fifteen new performances for children ages six and under.

1 February through 4 February // Various Venues

Franz Ferdinand Franz Ferdinand release their new album, 'Always Ascending' on 9 February, and appear in Galway the next day. This is going to be one of the biggest shows in early 2018 so we hope you got your tickets!

10 February // Leisureland

Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me

Waiting for Godot

This play by Frank McGuinness has garnered praise from the Guardian and the Irish Times alike for its exploration of the intricate depths of emotion, and the power of the human spirit.

Inspired by the abduction of Brian Keenan in Lebanon in the 1980s, this moving play is brought to the stage by director Andrew Flynn and Decadent Theatre Company here.

This twentieth-century masterpiece by Samuel Beckett returns to Galway, presented by Galway’s award-winning Druid theatre. This new production features members of the acclaimed Druid Ensemble for a show that’s likely to sell out quickly.

7 through 17 February // Town Hall Theatre

22 February through 3 March // Mick Lally Theatre

WE RECOMMEND _ Bicep and Hammer Creative head honchos, childhood friends, Belfast natives, and along with Rory Hamilton (Hammer) curators of easily one of the largest cult followed music repositories in club music history.

1 February // Electric Garden & Theatre // Clubbing

Beth Orton Known for her effortless blending of electronica and pop, Beth Orton will be coming to the Roisin Dubh this spring. ‘Fascinating and inventive, reshaping our expectations constantly’ - Sydney Morning Herald 5 February // Roisin Dubh // Live Music

Alison Spittle Fast-rising comedian Alison Spittle, star and writer of RTE’s popular new comedy ‘Nowhere Fast’, headlines at the Town Hall Theatre with support from Andrea Farrell.

10 February // Town Hall Theatre // Comedy

The Dirty Circus: No Pants Party Masters of all things naughty and naked, the Dirty Circus return in February with a sizzling spectacle of burlesque, dancing, comedy and more.

17 February // Roisin Dubh // Burlesque

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