The newest addition to Galway’s food scene, Merrow restaurant, has opened at the Pálás cinema this week.
Taking its name from the mermaids of Irish legend, Merrow has a seasonal menu made from locally sourced ingredients.
Head Chef Liga Jarovoja includes some subtle nods to his native Latvia and eastern Europe in his menus.
But the food is still inspired by the West of Ireland at heart.
Taking that locally-sourced ethos to heart, much of what goes into the food at Merrow is foraged from the wilderness of the nearby coast and countryside.
Merrow reunites Liga with his sous-chef Bronagh Beattie, a partnership that you can just taste when you try their food
“Bronagh and I became great friends while working in Dublin a few years ago,” said Jarovoja, who also worked at the acclaimed Ard Bia restaurant nearby.
“Working with someone with whom you share the same work ethic and passion is a dream job.”
Sitting on the ground floor of a cinema, Merrow offers everything from just a coffee for people waiting for a movie, to full three course meals.
Breakfast typically starts off with the likes of oat and seed granola with yoghurt and fruit compote or creamy mushrooms with poached egg and toast.
Lunch features Merrow’s much ordered Seafood Chowder with brown bread or more substantial dishes like Hake with chorizo, potato and lemon aïoli.
The new menu is a comforting proposition for the dark nights ahead; confit duck with figs, rocket and pomegranate salad or an Angus Steak with mushroom Wellington, chard and jus.
Finish with the now signature must-eat: a dish of chocolate, popped corn and caramel that is a sophisticated nod to the restaurant’s cinematic setting.
On top of the food there’s a carefully curated menu of cocktails, spirits, craft beers, and wines available.
Andrew Lowe of Element Pictures said: “We are delighted to be now launching Merrow led by the brilliant Liga Jarovoja and Bronagh Beattie and their able team.”
“Their talent, skill and passion will deliver an amazing dining experience and immeasurably enhance a night out at Pálás for Galwegians and visitors alike.”
