THERE’S NOTHING LIKE a comforting and nourishing meal. Food can conjure childhood memories or be the cornerstone to forging new ones. Restaurants, in particular, can hold special meanings as being the setting for regular family suppers or first dates.
Ard Bia, located by the Spanish Arch in Galway city is one such restaurant that holds a special place in the hearts of everyone who visits to enjoy its stunning surroundings and delicious menu.
For 22 years, Aoibheann MacNamara, founder of Ard Bia, has given locals and visitors of Galway a special dining experience. An institution in its own regard, Ard Bia has become one of Ireland’s top food spots. The business was born out of necessity, as owner Aoibheann MacNamara told The Journal, “I couldn’t find a job… so I had to make up one.”
Since its inception two decades ago, MacNamara had a strong vision for what she wanted Ard Bia to represent and provide for the community it catered to. “Local season aesthetic and menu; the way things should be. It’s always been integral to the business to have terrific staff that take great care both in the kitchen and on the floor to make sure everyone who visits us has an amazing experience.”
The understated and stylish interiors of the restaurant are simultaneously contemporary and familiar. Its cosy space at its Nimmos location – where Ard Bia has been for 14 years – has a warm and homely feel which effortlessly creates a tranquil and intimate setting for solo lunch outings or catch-up with friends. Paired with a delicious and locally sourced menu, Ard Bia has become a home from home to almost everyone who enters its doors.
Aside from the fantastic food, Ard Bia’s location certainly enhances the overall experience, as MacNamara confirms. “The views are amazing. It’s phenomenal that we can get any work done with views that good! It’s like being on a ship, in a way. I love the oldness of the space, I really like old buildings that are well-maintained.”
Over Ard Bia’s lifespan, the business has grown and expanded to become an all-encompassing lifestyle brand. Five years ago, MacNamara opened her beautiful home at the west end of Galway. As well as offering B&B services, MacNamara co-founded The Tweed Project with Triona Lillis. Founded with a slow fashion model, The Tweed Project offers a stunning collection of handmade clothing crafted with the finest quality Irish fabrics.
With so many exciting elements integral to the overall Ard Bia experience and ethos, Aoibheann MacNamara reveals her favourite part of running the business. “I love how happy people become when they’re in Ard Bia. I suppose that’s the transformative power of good food. Of course, I love the fantastic team here at Ard Bia that I get to hang out with every day. It’s a joy.”
Aoibheann MacNamara has facilitated many memories and wonderful meals for customers over the years in Ard Bia. We asked MacNamara to share her recipe for the perfect day off.
Down the Local: The Universal right next door to me in Galway is hands down my favourite bar. Conor [Lynam, the owner] is a dote and all of the staff working there are great. He really pushed the natural wine trend and the food is so perfectly balanced and delicious. There’s always a party feel and a great sense of community where everyone knows everyone so there’s constantly an amazing atmosphere at The Universal.
Dream Night Out: For a fancy night out I love to go to Kai or actually just have some food in Ard Bia (sorry, I know!) followed by a movie in the beautiful Pálás Cinema or go see a play in Druid Theatre Company.
Morning off Ritual: My perfect morning would be a swim at Blackrock Beach followed by a coffee at Coffeewerk + Press and a pastry from Éan.
Hidden Gem: Well, it’s not underrated or much of a secret, but sometimes people aren’t always aware of the magic of an early glass of wine (or 2 or 3!) in Sheridan’s Cheesemongers & Wine Bar. Their charcuterie is pretty special and there’s always a really lovely atmosphere with lots of great locals and tourists dribbling in.
Weekend Getaway: My favourite, favourite place ever is County Clare. There isn’t really a spot I don’t love deep in The Burren. A go-to is always lunch in The Burren Perfumery. Then it’s a trip for a delicious pastry from Hugo’s in Lahinch and a surf (or watch people surfing) or a swim at Clohane.
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