Kai in Galway

Absolutely the best pork chop I’ve had in my life. I will never forget it—I closed my eyes for most bites so I could savor it. We asked for a recommendation for dessert and it was ridiculously amazing. The flavors were incredible. The chocolate was so rich it was plenty for four of us to split since we all were full from our incredible meals. Others in our party got a fish entree they loved and the sauce that it came in was so fantastic they used the extra bread to finish it off! 10/10 We will be back next year. (Thanks for telling us about Kai, Kelly!)

We had a very odd experience here. We came during our honeymoon after several people recommended we visit while in Galway, but from the moment we arrived, the service felt uncomfortable and unwelcoming. We arrived at 6:04 p.m. for our 6:00 p.m. reservation, and from the initial interaction with the host/server, we felt as though we were somehow in trouble. After reading other reviews, it seems that unfriendly service may not be an isolated issue. I’ve have never left a negative restaurant review before, but our experience warranted one. A couple seated next to us, who arrived after we did, received their meals significantly sooner than we did. In fact, they had already finished their mains and were ordering dessert before our entrees even arrived. I ordered the steak, which was served with a single slice of tomato on top. The couple next to us ordered the same dish, and theirs came with multiple slices of tomato as an accompaniment. I understand that presentation can vary, but the difference between one slice and several seemed unusually inconsistent. My wife ordered the scallops and received only three scallops. Photos online clearly show the same dish being served with noticeably more. I understand portion sizes can vary, but the difference was substantial enough to stand out. After our plates were cleared, we sat for approximately 10–15 minutes without anyone checking on us. Apparently, the server asked my wife about dessert while I was in the restroom, but when I returned, we waited another five minutes before I finally had to ask for the bill myself. Throughout the evening, we felt largely ignored. Looking back, I don’t believe anyone ever asked how our meals were. My family owns a restaurant, so I understand that service can suffer when staff are overwhelmed. That wasn’t the case here. The server walked past our table multiple times and never once acknowledged us or checked in. Out of habit from the United States, I still left a generous tip, but in hindsight I wish I hadn’t. We left feeling genuinely disappointed by the cold and dismissive service. It was certainly not the dining experience we had hoped for during our honeymoon in Galway.

My only disappointment was my recipe book I purchased today wasn't signed as advertised. Ah well. The atmosphere, the staff and the food was great. They accommodated our two kids and I wish we were in Galway for more than a day so I could sample more of the menu. Particularly after reading about their story in the cookbook just now.

Wonderful spot and will definitely return. I got the pork which was incredible. Desert was heaven pistachio gelato with cherries and shortbread. 10/10

Unbelievable food - probably the best fish dish I've ever had (the black sole). Worth every penny.

Incredible meal & service. Best we had in our 10 days in Ireland. Met lovely strangers. If you two see this - reach out.

One of the things I miss most about Galway is the lunch at Kai.

The food was delicious, though slightly overpriced for how simple the composition of the plate was. The atmosphere is great, aside from a table of Americans shouting nearby.

Top 3 in Galway! Always busy be prepared to wait during lunch or book for dinner

Excellent food matched with peerless service. High quality wine list and cocktails were phenomenal.