The
Pie Maker was recommended to us by a couple of friends, so when we stayed in
Galway, where else were we going to go for dinner? This quirky little
restaurant only seats about 15, but it really is worth it – and that’s coming
from someone who doesn’t really like pie!
The
Pie Maker is quite clearly a pie shop, serving six varieties of homemade
savoury pie in addition to three sweet varieties and traditional Irish
desserts. There’s no way you’d be able to manage two courses of pie, so if you
have a sweet tooth, definitely go for dessert... if not, the savoury options
provide a hearty meal! We went for savoury pies, which come with your choice of
side: mashed potato, mushy peas, red cabbage and gravy; or an organic leafy
salad with beetroot, spring onions and cherry tomatoes.
Upon
arrival, we took a seat at the bar, as there were no free tables. There are
five bar stools and only three tables – but surprisingly, no matter where you
choose to sit, there is enough room. Sitting at the bar, you could see all the
varieties of pie, ready to be cooked. As soon as a table was free, however, we
decided to move – sitting at the bar wasn’t providing enough support for my
back or bump, but the staff didn’t mind us switching seats. We sat at the back of
the restaurant and the photo above really does put into perspective the size of
the building – the shop is so narrow, but cosy and homely.
The
decor’s incredibly quirky and the walls couldn’t have been decorated any more.
Knick knacks included mirrors in gilded frames, candlesticks, prints and stuffed
animals. The toilet door even blended into the wall, so you wouldn’t even know
it was there – with the wall made up of rulers.
To
eat, I chose the chicken & wild mushroom pie; Ashley picked the beef &
eight degree stout pie (to accompany his bottle of beer). We both chose the
mash, veg and gravy to accompany the pies – and those sides were a meal in
itself! The pies were a reasonable size, but a lot more filling than they looked.
Like I say, I’m not really a pie fan (we have a pie shop in Brentwood, but I’ve
never eaten pie there – always opting for sausage & mash!), but it was most
enjoyable. The pastry was flaky and crisp, from top to bottom and there was
ample filling, which was so flavoursome. I never used to like mushroom either
(look at Ash making me all adventurous, ha) but chicken & mushroom is such
a classic combo, especially for pie – and the wild mushroom & whiskey sauce
wasn’t too overwhelming, nor were the flavours of garlic & rosemary.
With
regards to the sides, the mash was the perfect consistency: so smooth and creamy;
while I loved the peas and definitely think I prefer mushy peas to standard
garden peas. I didn’t try any of Ash’s pie, but it’s safe to say he enjoyed it
– it was soon demolished and not long before he helped me finish mine.
I’m
glad we were recommended The Pie Maker as there’s no way we’d have found it
otherwise – it’s a hidden gem. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re visiting
Galway. The pies were reasonably priced, the staff were friendly and it was
homemade comfort food at its best. The Pie Maker even have a takeaway service,
if you don’t want to sit in, or there aren’t any tables.
Love,
Lucy xx
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Love, Lucy xx