Galway Dining and The Universal Michelin Guide Recognition
The Universal in Galway city’s Westend has secured an addition to the Michelin Guide, bringing fresh attention to its modern Irish menu. Located at 9 William Street West, the establishment operates under head chef Mark Gunnip, who took over the kitchen in 2019 following years of cooking in the United States, as reported by The Irish Times. The dinner service for two, including a glass of wine and beer, totaled €135.40.
Regional producers supply the concise menu
The concise menu features four starters and four mains, highlighting regional producers across Galway and surrounding counties. Suppliers include Bia Oisín for organic vegetables, bread from Magpie Bakery located across the river, meat from Gilligan’s Farm in Roscommon, Kinvara lamb from Hickey Meats, and cheese from Sheridan’s. Starters include red and yellow Athenry heirloom tomatoes with Kalamata tapenade for €13, and Doonbeg crab lightly bound with espelette pepper for €19.
Organic wines center the Westend beverage program
The venue occupies a busy spot in Galway’s Westend, featuring a bar along one side and tables opposite. Staff members manage a bustling room next to the kitchen and storeroom, though service at times feels overstretched. The beverage program, curated by owner Conor Lynam, centers on organic wines starting at €36 and reaching €72, alongside a selection of chilled reds and local brews such as Wexford’s Yellowbelly Citra pale ale for €7.40.
Main courses include black sole and striploin steak
Main selections feature black sole served off the bone for €36 and a striploin steak priced at €37. Side dishes are ordered separately, including Kilkenny baby spuds with spring onion butter for €5.50. Desserts feature home-made caramel ice-cream with Achill Island sea salt priced at €6.50. The establishment offers wheelchair access to the pub area, though the toilets remain inaccessible.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Universal
What cuisine does The Universal serve?
The kitchen serves Modern Irish dishes focusing on local seasonal produce from Galway suppliers and regional farms.
Who heads the kitchen at The Universal?
Mark Gunnip serves as the head chef, having assumed the role in 2019 after cooking in the United States.
How much did dinner cost in the reported review?
A dinner for two with a glass of wine and beer came to €135.40, according to the review in The Irish Times.