10 Best Cafes in Galway: A Coffee Lover’s Guide to the City of Tribes
Galway’s coffee scene has exploded in recent years, transforming this vibrant coastal city into a haven for cafe enthusiasts. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect flat white, a cozy spot to work, or simply want to soak up Galway’s famous atmosphere, these ten cafes represent the very best the city has to offer. From award-winning specialty coffee to charming hidden gardens, here’s your guide to the best coffee shops in Galway.
Coffeewerk + Press
Coffeewerk + Press on Quay Street in Galway came in at a more than respectable no. 39 on the list published by The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops earlier this month. This internationally recognized cafe has played a pivotal role in shaping Galway’s artisan coffee scene. Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, Coffeewerk combines exceptional coffee with a unique art gallery concept. They collaborate with renowned Copenhagen roasters April to craft their impressive selection of coffee blends, and the “Press” aspect showcases independent artists through a diverse collection of postcards, greeting cards, and prints from over 30 creatives. The space feels modern and stylish, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for both coffee connoisseurs and art lovers.
The Secret Garden
Tucked away in Galway’s West End, The Secret Garden is removed from the hustle and bustle of shop street making it the ultimate chill-out zone. This enchanting tea shop and cafe offers an extensive selection of over 100 types of tea from around the world, along with quality coffee options. The interior is intimate and charming, with giant squishy cushions scattered on the floor and fairy lights hanging from the ceiling. Perhaps most buzz worthy about The Secret Garden is its creative and relaxing atmosphere. The lack of Wi-Fi encourages genuine conversation, making it ideal for catching up with friends. They also serve homemade cakes and pastries, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Urban Grind
We are a small independent specialty coffee shop in Galway’s Westend. Open since 2014, our aim is to bring a new choice of coffees & brew methods to coffee lovers. Urban Grind regularly features guest roasters from across Europe and Ireland, offering a rotating selection of blends and single-origin beans. They serve a comprehensive brunch menu seven days a week until 3pm, using the best local and organic ingredients. The coffee is made with Dublin’s 3FE beans, proudly displayed behind the counter, and are appropriately strong, though some visitors note the portion sizes can be on the smaller side for the price.
Jungle Cafe
Thanks to our team, you can feel the power, taste and aroma of espresso with perfectly whipped milk, taste the excellent and healthy flavours, and enjoy the relaxed and informal environment of Jungle Cafe. Located on Forster Street near the bus station, this unique cafe creates a tropical oasis in the city center. There’s a tiny indoor area, with a kitchen and some baristas making elaborate designs on Badger and Dodo coffees. There’s seating for only three or four people inside, so once you’ve ordered, it’s out to the jungle in the yard, filled with couches and wicker furniture. The outdoor covered area features lush plants and herbs, creating an atmosphere that feels like a greenhouse escape from urban life.
Éan Bakery & Restaurant
Inventive new bakery, restaurant & wine bar located on Druid Lane from the creators of Galway’s sustainable Michelin-starred restaurant, Loam. Éan (meaning ‘bird’ in Irish) serves artisanal pastries and organic, hand-roasted coffee each morning. Much of the food served at Éan has all been baked or made fresh in-house, highlighting their passion for using both artisan methods and locally sourced seasonal ingredients in all their dishes. The bakery offers hand-crafted sourdough breads and pastries straight from the oven, and their coffee program matches the high standards you’d expect from the Loam team.
Lane Cafe
The Lane Cafe, oh where do I begin? This hidden gem nestled in the heart of Galway has captured my coffee-loving soul. Located in the heart of old Galway City, Lane Cafe offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with both indoor and covered outdoor seating. They’re known for their excellent cappuccinos with rich aroma and velvety froth. Beyond coffee, their menu includes pizza, soups, sandwiches, and lasagna, with halal options available. The friendly and efficient service adds to the overall appeal of this cozy spot.
C’est la Vie Fabrique Boulangerie Café
In the north of Galway City, below the N6, is where you’ll find one of the most unique coffee shops in Galway – C’est la Vie, the finest authentic French bakery in this part of the country. This authentic French bakery brings a taste of Paris to Galway with fresh baguettes, croissants, and pain au chocolat. The interior features dark timber chairs at a polished wooden bar where you can watch your coffee being made or observe the bakers at work. They serve perfect cafe au lait alongside their French pastries, offering something truly different from the typical Irish cafe experience.
Temple Cafe
Temple Café’s mouth-watering range of sweet & savoury vegan options have cemented them as a must-visit café if you’re in the area. Located on St Augustine Street, this socially conscious cafe not only serves excellent coffee and food but also donates some of their profits to local charities to support their community. They specialize in vegan options, making them a perfect choice for plant-based diners looking for quality coffee and ethical dining.
Habit Coffee
Have a coffee craving and looking to satisfy it in style? Check out some of the soul-warming goodness from the team at Habit Coffee guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Located on Cross Street Upper, Habit Coffee focuses on sustainability alongside quality brewing. They offer reusable coffee cups and water bottles to help reduce plastic waste, making it a win-win for environmentally conscious coffee lovers seeking excellent brews in the heart of Galway.
Mocha Beans
Mocha Beans is a delightful cafe offering great lunch, bruch and breakfasts opposite the entrance to University of Galway. This local institution has built a strong reputation over its 25-year history as the largest independent coffee chain in Western Ireland. They roast their beans in-house for that perfect cup and offer a menu that goes beyond coffee to include organic foods like vegan sausage rolls and comforting hot soups. It’s an ideal spot for students and locals alike.
FAQ
What are the best coffee shops in Galway for working on a laptop?
Coffeewerk + Press offers excellent coffee in a modern setting with good Wi-Fi, while Urban Grind provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for getting work done. The Secret Garden, however, doesn’t offer Wi-Fi as they encourage face-to-face conversation. Kindly use our cafe filter features to find out more work friendly options cafes in Galway Filter Galway Cafes by work friendly
Are there dog-friendly cafes in Galway?
Coffeewerk + Press is a dog-friendly café that’s the perfect chill out spot for you and your pup, and The Secret Garden welcomes dogs and offers them fresh water bowls. Mocha Beans and several other establishments also welcome well-behaved dogs. Kindly use our cafe filter features to find out more pet friendly options cafes in Galway Filter Galway Cafes by pet friendly
Which Galway cafes serve the best specialty coffee?
Coffeewerk + Press ranked 39th in the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops, making it internationally recognized for quality. Urban Grind focuses on specialty coffee with guest roasters from across Europe and uses Dublin’s 3FE beans.
What are the opening hours for most cafes in Galway?
Most independent cafes in Galway open around 8-9am and close between 5-6pm on weekdays. The Secret Garden is open Mon-Sat 8AM - 9PM, Sun: 10PM - 9PM. Weekend hours can vary, so it’s best to check individual cafe websites or social media for current times.
Where can I find vegan options in Galway cafes?
Temple Café specializes in sweet & savoury vegan options, while The Secret Garden and Mocha Beans also offer vegan treats and plant-based milk alternatives. Most modern cafes in Galway now cater to dietary restrictions. Kindly use our cafe filter features to find out more vegan options cafes in Galway Filter Galway Cafes by vegan
Which cafes have outdoor seating in Galway?
Jungle Cafe has a covered outdoor area filled with couches and wicker furniture surrounded by plants, while The Secret Garden features a beautiful garden space. Lane Cafe also offers covered outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying Galway’s mild weather.
Are there any French-style cafes in Galway?
C’est la Vie is the finest authentic French bakery in this part of the country, offering fresh baguettes, croissants, and authentic cafe au lait in a proper Parisian-style setting.
What’s the best cafe near Galway University?
Mocha Beans is located opposite the entrance to University of Galway and has been serving students and locals for 25 years with excellent coffee and affordable breakfast and lunch options.
