Kai Restaurant image

Kai Restaurant

Restaurant

Organic European dishes served in a bright setting with colourful chairs and rustic wooden tables. People often mention Galway, great, staff, Great, service, good, menu, experience, wait, restaurant,


Address

22 Sea Rd, Galway, H91 DX47, Ireland

Website

www.kairestaurant.ie

Contact

+353 91 526 003

Price rating

$$$ $

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (1.2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Galway (22) great (20) staff (20) Great (17) service (16) good (16) menu (15) experience (13) wait (13) restaurant (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Troy M. 1 year ago on Google
    So lucky to have visited this restaurant for lunch. The food was incredible and the service was exceptional. Went back to dinner the following day with very high expectations and was completely blown away again. We might just move to Galway so we can eat here over and over again. Dominic was our waiter the first day and gave us a very detailed list of tips for our visit that proved to be fantastic. Such a great experience!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew K. 1 year ago on Google
    A fantastic experience here! Firstly we rocked up thinking we had a booking, only to discover we got the night wrong. My fault completely - prepared to walk out and hope I can get in another time I am in Galway. The owner looked at option and found us a space - albeit for an hour - 'could we eat quick...?' - yes we responded. Not long after he told us not to rush - other table movements meant we could stay and enjoy. Absolute great hosts, and the food was amazing! The 4 of us all had different dishes and all were amazing - and the desserts equally so. We'll be back!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fang T. 2 years ago on Google
    Kai has become one of our favourites. We went in for lunch, waited quite a bit because no reservations can be made for their lunch. It was well worth it! The food came with generous portions and they have so many layers of flavours. I cannot recommend enough! They also made the best minced pies I’ve ever had in my life.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nicolas A. 7 months ago on Google • 293 reviews
    Wir sind an einem Mittwochabend nahezu mit die ersten Gäste um 18:15 Uhr zum Abendessen gewesen. Das Restaurant hat sich ruckzuck gefüllt, was offenkundig an der Beliebtheit des Restaurants liegt 🙂 Wir sind an dem gesamten Abend super freundlich bedient worden. Das selbstgemachte Brot hat eine tolle Konsistenz und Noten von Umami. Keine Ahnung welche besonderen Zutaten dort drin waren 😀. Wir hatten ausgezeichnete und besondere Gerichte aus der umfangreichen und ausreichenden Karte ausgewählt, alles regional und von exzellenter Qualität. Es war für uns ein Erlebnis 😍. Ganz herzlichen Dank an die Küchencrew....!!! Wenn es nicht so weit von Deutschland wäre würden wir öfter kommen 😘. Danke, dass wir unseren Hund mitbringen durften 🐕💕
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kyle R. 6 months ago on Google • 753 reviews
    What a fantastic restaurant. There was so much thought put into the menu. I had a Turkish riff on eggplant Parmesan that was unlike anything I've ever had before and you know the cinnamon bun gelato was incredible. The interior was decorated in an adorable fall theme that added so much to the dining experience. They were even very accommodating for our toddler.

  • 5/5 Adam B. 3 years ago on Google
    The best meal we have had on our holiday! Very friendly staff and great coffee. I would love to go back to this Maori inspired neighbourhood gem.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ehud R. 2 years ago on Google
    Very good food, huge portions. Service is good and quick. Prices are reasonable. One star deduction since the queue system is messy: it's cold outside... Unclear order or people (who's next?) meant 30+ min wait.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kim O. 3 years ago on Google
    Such a gorgeous spot with lovely vibes. Have always had amazing food and coffee here. I would highly recommend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Didem D. 1 year ago on Google
    Atmosphere is really good.Food was good but high price. The wait staff aren't as welcoming as I'd have hoped.The woman who served us wasn't polite.You definitely need to say one main course per person.This is different rule. The bread and butter on the table were nice.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rohini S. 3 years ago on Google
    The food was great! The ambience was great too. Also, they insist we put the face masks on when not eating, just as a precaution. ( I don't see a problem there) Overall, a must visit 😊
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David M. 6 months ago on Google • 225 reviews
    Everything about this special restaurant is right, from the moment you walk in. Atmosphere, ambience, menu and wine choices, food, service - all perfect! Staff and customers are all happy. The best sign. Thoroughly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Edel L. 9 months ago on Google • 106 reviews
    We have been dying to try Kai and it did not disappoint. We both had the Brady strip steak + Boozy Onions and it was honestly mouth watering. We also had the scallops for starters and the Serrano ham and melon and the flavours were just something else. The restaurant itself is very cozy and the atmosphere was lovely. I would definitely recommend Kai.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alexander 10 months ago on Google • 82 reviews
    Great food, exceptional atmosphere. Kai had a lot of your typical favourites but done up in a more natural, organic and artistic approach. The plates are full of colourful vegetables and different textured elements. Keep in mind that the menu constantly changes. The fish croquettes are very good and the salad elements are tasty. The star of the show for us was the beef taco, where the beef was so expressly seasoned and spiced, that the taste was sublime. Would highly recommend for the food but also the layout and relaxing atmosphere of the interior. Great choice in Galway.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah M. 3 years ago on Google
    Exceptional food and service. Will definitely come back. Best food in Galway
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Xihui C. 2 years ago on Google
    Beef and black peas tostadas was nice, but this good looking pistachio cake hurt me very badly. It had severe raw almond taste which I hated😭We came here early in the morning but were told by a friendly staff that brunch is only served on Sunday 12-3pm, so we went somewhere for breakfast and came back for cake. We had high hopes because the cakes looked so nice. We were not hungry but still ordered a main to share, a scone and tea and a slice of pistachio cake. I regret ordering the pistachio cake, next time I’ll ask for recommendation and tell the staff I’m allergic to almonds, the taste of almond really haunted me and still lingering now
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew D. 1 year ago on Google
    I unique restaurant where everything comes together to paint a perfect experience. First off, the vibe inside the restaurant is cozy and quaint. Really like how close the tables are to one another without sitting on top of the next person. They have a wide selection of foods to choose from - I highly recommend the scallop ceviche which was enjoyable. The skirt steak was also delicious but not as good as the monkfish. Either option is a good one though. The olive oil and chocolate moose was also delicious and a great way to end off the evening. A great experience with a great staff. Would highly recommend coming by if you’re able to get a reservation!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carol R. 1 year ago on Google
    Best meal in Ireland. They have two seatings for dinner, 6:15 and 8:15. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. Great service too!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul R. 3 years ago on Google
    Worth the wait to get in! Fab food, the simple things are done well and the complex things are done well. Friendly staff, great menu options and cakes to take away!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Heinz N. 3 years ago on Google
    Excellent food - one of our favourites in Galway. My parents in law love it, too. Each time they come over from London we have to go there. Hopefully Covid-19 restrictions are soon over.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark O. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this place. One of the top spots in Galway. The coffee is great and the selection of cakes is to die for. Staff are lovely and look after your oh so well. Can't wait to go back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laurenu23 4 years ago on Google
    My mom and I enjoyed a very unique and delicious dinner here. Local food with something for everyone. Great for people with a little sense of adventure. We loved it!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tabi T. 5 years ago on Google
    Stumbled across the restaurant during a stroll through Galway. Google said it was closed but they had JUST switched to spring/summer hours where they are open 7 days a week. We got a table right away at 630 and the place wasn’t busy at all until we left around 830. Food was exceptional!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steve L. 5 months ago on Google • 180 reviews
    Just an amazing dinner. Very welcoming and not stuffy. An ever-changing, focused menu allows each dish to shine. To have a three-course meal with a drink and glass of wine at a Michelin-awarded spot for around €80 is bonkers in the best way possible.

  • 5/5 Damien m. 8 months ago on Google • 86 reviews
    Went here for lunch so can only comment on that. Fish fingers are some of rhe best I have ever had. Really enjoyed them. My wife had the pork and it was a little sweet for her (I enjoyed it though). The dessert were the apple and blackberry crumble (lovely, really tasty) and the salted caramel cake (super sweet but still delicious). Would recommend highly. Need to go back for dinner

  • 5/5 Jennifer B. 5 months ago on Google • 78 reviews
    My husband and I were visiting Galway last weekend and I had looked up a few places for lunch! We decided on Kai due to the good reviews. When we got there at about 1:30pm there was a large queue. However after being told 20 min wait we were seated in about 10. Inside is beautiful, really cozy with eccentric vibes. I got the fish fingers and my husband got the stew both were absolutely delicious! We shared the pistachio and vanilla cake with two Americanos and it was probably the best cake and coffee I’ve ever had in Ireland. The staff were really friendly also and the service was prompt. Can’t wait to go back for dinner some time

  • 5/5 Cameron O. 1 month ago on Google • 58 reviews New
    Kai was truly a memorable experience. The food was remarkable. Each dish was made with seasonal ingredients and culinary imagination. The chefs truly exhibited mastery in the menu they crafted and each dish was their brilliance on display. Among the starters, the fresh figs and coppa were my favorite. As for mains, the Connemara lamb was spectacular, but the strip steak was a close second. And the final desserts were all perfect, but the bread pudding, as well as the honey and oat cakes were especially great. A great experience. I highly recommend putting in a reservation and experiencing this delightful meal for yourself!

  • 4/5 Brylee C. 5 months ago on Google • 16 reviews
    Very subtle flavor but nice atmosphere, I like the environment here, there is always an unexpected flavor in the food, it can be a surprise

  • 5/5 holly g. 8 months ago on Google • 12 reviews
    I requested a reservation here at the last minute and was sure I wouldn’t get in but to my surprise fit me in on a Wed. This was the first meal I had on my Ireland journey and it absolutely did not disappoint. The food was incredible and full of flavor and unique touches. And the grapefruit gin and tonic was superb. Kai is easily on my list of top three best meals ever.

  • 5/5 Marcus O. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best in Ireland, let alone Galway

  • 5/5 Maria B. 2 years ago on Google
    My favourite place in Galway to eat lunch. Delicious food. The cakes are amazing. The staff are very helpful and service is excellent. They don't have baby changing facilities but offered an alternative space for me to change my baby and made ample buggy space

  • 5/5 Amy S. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful interior, casual but classy. The food was delicious and large portions. Staff were super friendly. I would recommend it to anyone

  • 5/5 Fiachra c. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely people, amazing options for vegetarians and fantastic food! Thank you so much

  • 5/5 Huilun H. 2 years ago on Google
    We went to Kai twice in 2 weeks for lunch. We had to wait about 30-40min each time but it was well worth the wait. The service was extremely fast and attentive. The menu changes daily. We tasted each other's meals and I'm convinced you could order anything on the menu and have a great experience. This is a exciting restaurant and my favourite in Galway so far.

  • 5/5 Aeron E. 2 years ago on Google
    absolutely fantastic. would give 6 stars. only 5 items on the menu and tried all 5. i didn't know what I was eating, but not one disappointed! service super friendly and atmosphere super cozy.

  • 1/5 Emma P. 2 years ago on Google
    Unfortunately cannot comment on the food because I waited over 40 minutes without even a glance from the wait staff, even after trying to flag one down. When I got up to leave I was questioned by two people that work there, and they said that they assumed I was waiting for someone else to be dining with me. But when I checked in for my reservation, the same man clearly said “just one tonight?” Menu looked good enough, but wasn’t going to wait upwards of an hour to be helped.

  • 5/5 george f. 2 years ago on Google
    Another amazing meal, never disappoints . Breathtaking views. A must if you have never been.

  • 5/5 Phoebe O. 9 months ago on Google
    One of the best meals I’ve had this year - incredible use of local produce and a really varied menu. Loved that we could get a really creative array of veggie and fish dishes. Great stories from the staff who were super lovely. Honestly a must visit if you’re in Galway.

  • 2/5 lidia s. 2 years ago on Google
    What a disappointment. I understand that time was tight before the next reservation but the red head waitress lingered around our table making us feel very unwelcome. The food was delicious and the efforts of the chef were not overlooked, however the service and attitude of the waiting staff undermined our culinary experience. If you’re looking for a delicious meal I would certainly recommend, but for a complete dining experience, I would look elsewhere.

  • 5/5 Clare C. 2 years ago on Google
    Fabulous experience & well worth a visit. Aperitifs, starters with steak & monkfish as mains were delicious 😋

  • 2/5 Cherrelle J. 2 years ago on Google
    Really great food and large portions, but servers need better training. Our server Was walking around without a mask and open mouth coughing during a pandemic. He cleaned the table off with my dirty crumpled up napkin, and brushed the crumbs into my lap. I tried to tap my card for payment, he took it from my hand, then tossed it on the table. Will not go back for this reason

  • 4/5 Michelle Chiperi A. 1 year ago on Google
    The food and atmosphere in this restaurant are really good. By far one of the best steaks I've ever had. The scallops were absolutely delicious and everything was paired extremely well. Although the atmosphere is great, the wait staff aren't as welcoming as I'd have hoped. It is definitely something that would put me off coming back, as I felt slightly uncomfortable with their attitude. They weren't too bad, just a tad bit unpleasant. Otherwise I will definitely return for the wonderful food and drinks.

  • 5/5 Michelle F. 5 months ago on Google • 3 reviews
    Stunning food in a beautiful old building with so much character! Had an amazing lunch there, the staff were friendly, and the desserts? My oh my!

  • 5/5 Jesslyn F. 1 year ago on Google
    Very good food!!! Large portions, so maybe share 🤣 but everything was really good!! Always busy! Get there early.

  • 5/5 Tomas G. 10 months ago on Google
    Somehow it happened that we did not go to Kai for last 4 or 5 years. During that time, quite many restaurants opened and even closed in Galway. However, we were very positively surprised about keeping high quality standards since our last visit. I had the monkfish as main and later the sorbet. The main dish was very well balanced in the sense of coming vegs and the sauce together. The sorbet was on the same high level. I truly enjoyed what I had. The service was very pleasant as well. Last but not least bit, the portions are not small as for such a place.

  • 5/5 Peter F. 1 year ago on Google
    We will certainly be recommending Kai to anyone visiting Galway. We loved the food, service, vibe and value for money. Cakes were very nice too! Worth the wait at lunchtime.

  • 4/5 Alice P. 9 months ago on Google
    Good atmosphere and tasty food but quality of meat could have been better. Could have just been unlucky I guess. Great drinks and good choice on the menu.

  • 5/5 Cathal W. 3 years ago on Google
    Kai has one of the best and most exciting lunch menus in Galway. It always changes and I've never once been let down. The only bad thing about Kai is that its so hard to choose what to order!

  • 5/5 bridget l. 3 years ago on Google
    Had lunch,first time eating here a good choice on menu, the main course we had was lovely,will be back...

  • 5/5 Piotr B. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the best spots for lunch in Galway 😍

  • 5/5 Christian V. 3 years ago on Google
    A beautiful restaurant, the service and the decorations are excellent. The food is homemade and fresh. You will be delighted by their desserts. It is a bit away from city centre but it is worth it.

  • 5/5 Jason M. 3 years ago on Google
    Fantastic grub!

  • 5/5 Dermot C. 3 years ago on Google
    Out of this world food.

  • 5/5 Michael M. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved this place, quirky, fun and the desserts are to die for!

  • 5/5 ZEX 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) i endorse KAI :) (Original) i endorse KAI:)

  • 5/5 Marcel K. 3 years ago on Google
    Prob one the best restaurants I've ever been too. Food is tasty and fresh. And staff could not be friendlier and more helpful. Love it.

  • 5/5 Anthony H. 3 years ago on Google
    Outstanding

  • 5/5 Janine K. 3 years ago on Google
    Best dining spot in Galway, easily. Book ahead.

  • 5/5 Sean C. 3 years ago on Google
    Super

  • 5/5 Edward H. 3 years ago on Google
    Great service. very friendly staff, great menu. The first time I went to Kai, I went the next day again before leaving Galway

  • 3/5 Richard B. 3 years ago on Google
    Didn't hit the mark for us. Long wait from ordering, one server didn't make us feel welcome and food didn't match the hype. Seems really popular though so fair play to them, hard please everyone.

  • 5/5 Claire M. 3 years ago on Google
    Really nice food, great quality & excellent presentation. I ordered the hake goujans which came with lovely brown bread & side salad - really tasty and filling!

  • 5/5 Charlie C. 3 years ago on Google
    Really enjoyed it AGAIN tonight...my wife loves the places....there Lunchs are also great...especially the crab dish...mmmmm

  • 4/5 Mattia P. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this little cafe. Great scones and coffee, but at the time I was there, early in the morning breakfast wasn't serve yet. Overall pleasant experience.

  • 5/5 MAGDALENA L. 3 years ago on Google
    Great quality of food. Fresh and based on what's in season. Menu is written very fancy and had to ask the waitress to explain what each thing was;) definitely worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Damien M. 3 years ago on Google
    Classic Kai! Seasonal foods! Presented elegantly!

  • 5/5 tommy h. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely incredible. Here's what we ordered. Starters Inis mor crab celeriac Parsnip skordalia, Janet's beets, walnut picada Mains Striploin, purpletta butter, Hungarian hot wax Rossaveal hake, surf clams, crazy water and aioli Dessert Ricotta & fig ice-cream, milk crumb Spiced apple sorbet, butterscotch. This is a lovely little cosy restaurant tucked away in Galway city and a Michelin Star winner to boot. The staff are helpful and very professional in the friendliest of ways as I had questions about the brandy I had at the end. The food is served in good portions, colourful with a myriad of flavours. You never want it to end. The Highbank Organic Apple Brandy is incredible. For me it's better than Calvados Chateau de Breil. Smoother with a syrupy like texture and a little sweeter. Definitely worth a visit here if you are looking for something special.

  • 5/5 Danielle H. 2 years ago on Google
    The food is second to none!!! Everyone is so friendly. The flavours are to die for. Will definitely be going back soon.

  • 5/5 Urszula G. 2 years ago on Google
    I absolutely love Kai! We visited Kai about 3 years ago and this time it was even better than we remembered. The food is outstanding, delicious and locally sourced. Priced reasonably, but to be honest compering with other similar place in Galway, food and service in Kai was so much higher ended. Fantastic staff, invisible but always available. Vegan and vegetarian options on the menu were available too.

  • 5/5 Jay K. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely place. Really enjoyed the fish.

  • 5/5 Michael S. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing food

  • 5/5 Callum P. 3 years ago on Google
    My fiancée and I went to Kai last night after getting a late cancellation. Seated upstairs, she ordered the Monkfish and I ordered the Chops. Both were amazing dishes and the mashed potatoes were to die for. Would recommend this place to anyone! Ka Pai and thanks again from a fellow Kiwi.

  • 5/5 Hugh H. 3 years ago on Google
    Had a terrific brunch; beautiful food. Don't miss this place if you're in the area.

  • 5/5 Audrey O' C. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolute perfection. The crab brunch was incredible, great service and such a cool vibe. Loved it!

  • 5/5 Alexander de B. 2 years ago on Google
    Great service, great food, this place is genuinely my fav rest in Galway. Must go to place if you like flavor.

  • 5/5 Chris L. 3 years ago on Google
    An experience. Great dishes. Great wine. Top spot in Galway

  • 5/5 Michael W. 3 years ago on Google
    Lives up to all of the hype. Beautifully decorated and laid out so feels very intimate. Great coffee, delish hake fish fingers & a really interesting menu

  • 5/5 Marian S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food. Lovely staff.

  • 5/5 Frank S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great imaginative food.

  • 5/5 Gerard C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food. Lovely ambiance. Great night

  • 5/5 Wendy G. 3 years ago on Google
    Food is beyond flavoursome. Love the staff. Leave room for cakes. Kai is just the best

  • 4/5 John J O. 3 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous little restaurant, delicious higher end food, lovely staff.

  • 3/5 Aidan W. 3 years ago on Google
    Views are fantastic


Call +353 91 526 003 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Quick bite
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Vegan options
    • ✓️ Organic dishes
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery

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