It's no surprise that Galway has fast planted itself on the national food map. With that many farms and all that ocean there'd be no excuses if the food and drink wasn't as unreal as it is. So cancel your plans and stop what you're doing – it's time to head west.

1. Papa Rich

Still relatively new to the Galway food scene, Papa Rich serves deadly Asian and Thai street food in lovely Woodquay. Definitely check out their massive, hearty bowls of noodle soups – the perfect meal on a wet and windy day – while the Gowgee and Udon are also gorge.    

2. Tribeton

The perfect combination of great food with serious cocktails in Galway's hottest venue on Merchant's Road. Yassss. Their list of Sunday offerings are unbeatable with a choice of either brunch or a roast, or both if you're shtarvin'.

3. Buddha Bar

The Asian Tea House is a staple in Galway City serving unique, fresh food – time and time again. And when they opened their Buddha Bar on Mary Street it didn't take long for the crowds to descend. The food's excellent but the drinks are the true stars here; their Bangkok Bramble is the stuff of dreams.

4. Quay Street Kitchen

This place is adorable. If you decide to brave the cold of Quay Street and sit outside they'll give you blankets and hot water bottles to keep you warm. 1, 2, 3: Awwwwwww. But that's not all; the food is amazing, while their salads in particular are Galway's pride and joy.    

5. The Noodle House

I've been eating here for at least 18 years and the food is just as good today as it was then. They pride themselves on serving healthy, authentic Chinese cuisine. I would gladly eat only their fresh homemade noodles and dumplings for the rest of my life – so honestly, I can't stress enough: if you're in Galway don't leave without trying them.

6. Basilico, Oranmore

If there was ever a reason to trek out to Oranmore, then this is it. This fab spot on Main Street has some of the best Italian chefs in the whole county, and what they serve is a testament to that. Go for the Tagliatelle alla Boscaiola and ask 'em to add fresh buffalo mozz. If you really wanna treat yourself, then try the Burrata salad with caramelised pears and balsamic. YUM.

7. Dela

Cos it's all 'bout dat brunch. Dominick Street got a whole lot more interesting when this food haven showed up on the scene. They grow as much of their produce as possible on their farm out in Moycullen, and all I can say is that it's fan-flipping-tastic.    

8. Dough Bros

How can we visit Galway without a trip to everyone's favourite pizzeria? Run by the coolest kids in town, Dough Bros on Upper Abbeygate Street has stolen the heart of every pizza lover in the west. From their expertly prepared veg to their beaut locally sourced ingredients, this really is perfection on a pizza.

9. Java

Even further up Abbeygate on your right, you'll see this adorable little Parisienne crêperie. Randomly enough they serve the best soup I've ever had in Galway and their crêpes, of course, are on point. Whether you're in the mood for sweet or savoury this place will satisfy that craving.  

So what are you waitin' for?

Get to Galway. Stat.