Buddha Bar — Restaurant in Galway

You know those hidden gems that you walk away thinking, "That was amazing! I can't believe we stumbled on such a great place!" This is one of those places.

My husband and I were touring around southern Ireland, looking for a spot to eat in Galway. We didn't notice how late it was (it stays light until nearly 10:30 in June). We stopped at a nearby pub and eatery only to find out their kitchen had already closed at 9:30. Luckily, we received some true Irish hospitality; the host at the other establishment recommended Buddha Bar (he said the kitchen open until later, maybe 10:30?).

We entered a lively environment, rich with Eastern decor and loud (but not too loud), lively music. There were several groups there ordering drinks and having fun (but not, how shall I say, excessively?). The bartenders were fun to watch as they expertly mixed drinks from their quite lengthy custom cocktail menu. We ordered a local brew after the barkeeper gave us a sample, and we both really enjoyed it.

The host worked really hard to move us from the bar area to a table, which was much appreciated. He made sure to check on us several times, and ask us if we would prefer to move to a table that would be open soon.

The waitstaff was amazing, as well, asking us several times if we wanted to order (cognizant of the looming kitchen closure). We were planning on ordering 3 or 4 main dishes (in California, we usually order a few dishes at our favorite Thai place and share). The waitress advised that there would be too much food. She was absolutely right, because the portions are HUGE.

We ordered pad thai with prawns and mango chicken with rice, and we shared. It was more than enough food, and my husband eats a lot! I would probably say that the level of spice was much less than what we are used to, so don't be afraid to try the 🔥🔥 and spicier options. The food was so fresh with the vegetables stir-fried just right, tender but still slightly crunchy. Our compliments to the chef and kitchen team!

Our waittress was extremely kind and quick with refills, bringing us a full carafe of water with ice (if you have traveled the EU/UK, then you know how rare this is to find!). Our food was also out very quickly, maybe less than 10-15 minutes.

Parking in the area can be tricky along the tiny side streets. Luckily there are no parking fees after around 6:30 in the area that we parked.

Overall, the entire team at Buddha Bar did an amazing job! We will definitely stop here again on our next trip to Galway, and tell all of...

The food is very good and the service was uncommonly swift. I commented that it felt almost rushed, as though a quick turnover of tables was the aim. On two occasions our server asked if my girlfriend was finished with her plate, which she clearly wasn't and had only briefly stopped eating as we were having a conversation. After our mains, we were not offered a deserts menu and an unsolicited bill landed on our table at 9:15. We were informed that our table was needed for 9:30 (we booked in for 8) and our sever asked if we could take our drinks to the smoking area. The table adjacent to ours arrived at 8 also and had already received their deserts and had ordered more drinks just beforehand. With Covid regulations we were entitled to 105 mins, we got 75. We were extremely disappointed and surprised. Our sever was understandably uncomfortable and mentioned that she knew it would be met with grievance but it was the manager's decision. To make amends we were offered deserts on the house, we weren't interested. Next, we were offered our next round of drinks were free of charge but naturally our mood was already soured at this point, we felt unwelcome and only wished to leave. To say it put a damper on our night is...

My Wife and I have been to this fine establishment on many an occasion, and it is for good reason that we frequent so. The food is amazing, and the drinks are simply on another level, but we feel that it is the atmosphere, competence, and demeanour of the staff that truly sets this destination apart from others in Galway. We are always well looked after and greeted with a smile and enthusiasm from everyone. Be it the friendly and savvy doorman who is always welcoming and helpful, or the attentive and respectful bar and/or wait staff who present themselves so well and probably know our orders by heart at this stage... we have never had a bad experience in Buddha Bar. We dine just the two of us, or if ever we have company we endeavour to make this hotspot our first choice. Never have we been let down, and never have we left with a bad taste in our mouths (food or otherwise). The prices are entirely reasonable too, especially considering the experience delivered without fail and the quality standards always upheld. Other locations in Galway might provide just a meal followed by swift usherance to the door, but not here. If you are visiting or local, you need to add this spot to your list of musts. You won't be...