Blas na Samhna: 4 Galway Food Events You’ll Want To Book This November

Celebrations began on October 31st and continue all the way through to November 30th, when the festival ends with an Italian-themed pop-up at Aniar. From intimate dinners to chef swaps and seasonal masterclasses, here’s our pick of some of the best events to look forward to.

A Galician-Irish Feast

As those who have been to the north of Spain will know, Galicia is like Ireland’s twin in many ways, with rain-washed fields, granite cliffs, and a cuisine that relies predominantly on the sea. 

On Wednesday, 12th November, Cava Bodega is bringing a taste of Galicia to Galway with a menu that is a conversation between the two shores. On the night, guests can expect a selection of vegetable, seafood and meat tapas, all paired with Galician wines, and for dessert? The famous Santiago tart. Bookings (from 5pm onwards) can be made through the website.

Chef Swap with Melissa McCabe at Aniar

The chef swap arrives in week three with Melissa McCabe of Feast in Rostrevor, Co. Down, popping into the Michelin-starred Aniar for a one-night residency. Located on Dominick Street in Galway’s West End, she’ll join the team to cook a collaborative tasting menu made with seasonal ingredients sourced from the locality. Set to take place on 15th November, reservations can be made at Aniar with bookings available from 4:30pm right up to 9pm.

Cabaret agus Canapés sa gCafé

Dinner and a show, anyone? Do something a little different with your Friday night and make a beeline for POTA Café on 21st November for an evening celebrating Connemara's culinary and musical culture – both traditional and contemporary. Tickets are priced at €35 and include canapés made using local, seasonal and organic ingredients and a glass of beer/wine/cider or a soft drink. Diarmuid Ó Mathúna will be your host for the evening with special musical performances from Róise Ní Mhurchú, Ailbhe Ní Mhurchú, and Damhnait & Déithín Ní Fhátharta.

Spirits of Samhain

Finish the month on a high note on 29th November with an immersive experience at Micil Distillery. Centred on Galway’s storied past, the evening will comprise storytelling, folklore, and handcrafted spirits inspired by Ireland’s most ancient festival. On arrival, guests will get to sample a specially curated Samhain spirit serve –smoky, spiced and steeped in tradition – followed by a guided tasting of Micil’s award-winning whiskey, poitín and Irish cream liqueur. Tickets cost €29 per person and include four spirit tastings and one Samhain cocktail.

For full details, tickets and updates on Blas na Samhna, visit atasteofgalway.com/events.