Finding somewhere to eat out with the kids shouldn’t mean settling for a menu of chicken nuggets and not much else. Galway has a brilliant mix of restaurants and cafés that go out of their way to welcome families — think proper kids’ menus, colouring sheets, high chairs at the ready, and staff who don’t mind a bit of noise.
Whether you’re based in the city or exploring further into the county, here’s our pick of 15 family-friendly restaurants in Galway, plus a few of our own favourite days out to pair them with.
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Family-Friendly Restaurants in Galway City
The Connacht Hotel
Sometimes it’s nice to treat the whole family, and Afternoon Tea served in the Library at the Connacht Hotel Galway is a lovely way to do it. Adults can enjoy homemade scones with fresh cream and jam, gourmet finger sandwiches and miniature cakes, all with tea or coffee.
Little ones aren’t forgotten either — the Family Afternoon Tea includes chicken goujon skewers, ham and cheese sandwiches, and treats like Oreo brownie, jelly, coconut cake, mini cookies, and a hot chocolate or babyccino to finish.
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Pascal Coffee House
With two spots in the city — Edward Square and Lower Abbeygate Street — Pascal’s is a genuinely child-friendly choice, with great customer service and welcoming staff. It’s especially popular for its extensive pancake menu.
Gourmet Food Parlour, Salthill
Gourmet Food Parlour has a generous kids’ menu covering both brunch and dinner, with options ranging from Thai red curry and calamari and chips to toasties, pancakes, goujons and pasta — plenty of choice for fussy and adventurous eaters alike.
The Dough Bros Wood Fired Pizza, Middle Street
Staff here are always welcoming and happy to chat with the kids, and there’s colouring available at the table to keep them entertained while the (genuinely excellent) wood-fired pizzas are being made.
Milano, Middle Street
Milano is a spacious, family-friendly restaurant with a lovely ‘Piccolo’ set menu for kids — dough balls, pizza, pasta or salad, followed by a dessert and a Bambinoccino. A kids’ activity pack is also on offer to keep little hands busy.
The Galleon, Salthill
Established in 1965, The Galleon has been a family favourite for generations, offering great value, warm service and tasty food. Young diners can choose from soup, wings, burgers, fresh fish, roast chicken or the roast of the day.
Mr Waffle, Newcastle Road
Mr Waffle is a firm family favourite, serving crepes, pancakes, sandwiches, quesadillas, soups and — of course — waffles. Gluten-free options are available too.
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Family-Friendly Restaurants in Galway County
Three Towers Organic Restaurant at Slieve Aughty, Loughrea
Three Towers serves home-cooked, organic food with plenty of space and outdoor seating for fine days. The café menu runs daily in summer and at weekends in winter, and there’s a clay oven pizza evening on Fridays during the season. The focus throughout is on healthy, natural ingredients.
Garden Café at Brigit’s Garden
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Enjoy fresh, homemade food in the light-filled dining room overlooking the gardens, or dine al fresco on the patio. Kids’ options include savoury and sweet crepes, wraps, pasta, small portions of homemade soup, and hot chocolate.
The Garden Café welcomes families whether or not they’re visiting the gardens themselves — and for those who are, there’s a kids’ discovery trail and plenty of natural play to enjoy in the Celtic Gardens.
Karibas Restaurant & Coffee House, Ballinasloe
Known for delicious food and properly good coffee, Karibas serves breakfast, lunch and an all-day menu, so there’s always something to suit everyone in the family.
O’Grady’s on the Pier, Barna
Fresh fish is the star at O’Grady’s, and the kids’ menu follows suit, with seafood chowder, prawns in garlic butter, mussels, and fish and chips all on offer. There’s also plenty for those who’d prefer a burger, goujons or chicken curry.
The Gallery Cafe, Gort
Famed for its pizzas, homemade scones and pastries, the Gallery Cafe also does a lovely brunch — and the setting is worth a visit in itself, with the café walls showcasing work by local artists.
Basilico, Oranmore
This Italian restaurant has an extensive children’s menu, along with colouring for kids and consistently friendly staff.
The Garden Tea House at Kylemore Abbey
Set beside Kylemore Abbey’s six-acre Victorian Walled Garden, the Garden Tea House is the perfect stop for sweet treats or a warming brew after exploring the woodland estate. Expect home baking and herbal teas made using herbs grown in the Walled Garden next door.
Kids can colour and read storybooks inside, while the views stretch across Connemara National Park and the Connemara Pony Paddock, where you might spot mares and foals at play. Outside, there are picnic benches and a wild play area for children.
Note: an entrance ticket to the Kylemore estate is required to visit.
The Hungry Bookworm, Loughrea
Part café, part bookshop, The Hungry Bookworm is a fun choice for families, with a wide menu that includes plenty of vegetarian options — browse the shelves while you wait for your order.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a restaurant family-friendly?
Look for a proper kids’ menu with more than one or two options, high chairs, quick service, and a relaxed atmosphere where a bit of noise or mess isn’t a problem. Extras like colouring sheets or activity packs, as several restaurants on this list offer, are a lovely bonus.
Should I book ahead when eating out with kids in Galway?
It’s always a good idea to book, especially at weekends or during busy holiday periods, so you’re not left waiting around with hungry children. A quick call or online booking ahead of time will save any last-minute stress.
Are there family-friendly options outside Galway city?
Yes — Galway county has plenty to offer too, from garden cafés and organic restaurants to pizza nights and countryside tea houses, several of which are included above.
Do any of these restaurants cater for dietary requirements?
A few do — Mr Waffle offers gluten-free options, and The Hungry Bookworm has a good selection of vegetarian dishes. It’s always worth checking directly with the restaurant if your family has specific dietary needs.
Related Reading
- Fun Things to Do in Galway with Kids
- Best Outdoor Places in Galway for Families
- 10 Stunning Places for Great Family Walks in Galway
- Things to Do with Preschoolers in Galway
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