Review
The Huntsman Inn is situated at the end of Lough Attila about a ten minute walk from the city centre, in the new quarter of the city dominated just across the road by The G Hotel. The Huntsman is very much a landmark bar, taking up most of a purpose built terrace that manages to look like separate businesses and is decorated with hanging baskets, giving the Huntsman a more traditional look.
Inside the space is divided into separate areas, on the right is the restaurant, then moving left it is café bar, then the bar area. These spaces are not sacrosanct however, as at different times of the day it all blends into one big happy informal space that always remains stylish and friendly. Outside there is plenty of seating and you can follow the sun around the building if that’s your thing.
We have been here several times, at very different times of the day, and it is always a busy, buzzy spot, frequented by locals and visitors alike. Food is served from breakfast time, through mid morning scones and coffee. Lunch offers a selection of sandwiches, soups salads and specials like Huntsman fishcakes or a duo of pork and leek and Toulouse sausages.
In the evening the restaurant is busy from teatime and we enjoyed their roast carrot and parsnip soup and the pan fried crab claws in garlic butter, followed by the chargrilled steak burger and organic salmon. The menu changes frequently, but it should give you an idea, and the prices are very good value, with starters priced from €5 - €7, and most of the main courses in the €15 - €18 mark.
The Huntsman Inn is a rare breed, a sort of super pub, minus the crappy manufactured atmosphere or theme. This business evolved from small beginnings and has grown organically over a couple of decades, under the careful watch of owner Stephen Francis. Definitely a place to visit when in Galway, whether for food or a drink. They have music Thursday and Saturdays and a very popular pub quiz on Monday.
