Ard Bia at Nimmo's

Ard Bia at Nimmo's Review

Good food and the friendly, enthusiastic staff make this bustling bistro one of Galway's most popular restaurants. The central location in an old stone boathouse overlooking the Corrib River adds to the pleasure. Downstairs is one of Galway's busiest wine bars and luncheon spots, Ard Bia, which serves casual meals ($), while upstairs is a more sophisticated restaurant. The long, spacious, second-floor room has flamboyant maroon-and-off-white walls, wooden floors, and well-spaced tables, with an eclectic mix of quirky, white-painted, stick- or spoon-back chairs. The menu is short but well balanced, and while presentation is theatrical, the food also tastes good. Try the west coast scallops with pea-and-truffle sauce to start, then belly of pork with potato and celeriac, or baby monkfish with beetroot risotto, garlic yogurt, rose salt, and pomegranates. Lobster and black sole are available in season.