Kai, Galway — Farm-to-Fork, and Ireland's Only Green Star
On Sea Road in Galway's Westend, Kai has held Ireland's only Michelin Green Star since it began cooking whatever's locally in season back in 2011.
Tucked into Galway's Westend on Sea Road, Kai has been serving locally sourced, often organic or wild ingredients since 2011. It holds Ireland's only Michelin Green Star, the award recognising genuinely sustainable dining — 75% of the restaurant's waste is recycled, with the remainder used to produce energy, and it works closely with FoodCloud to minimise what goes to landfill.
Co-owners Jess and Dave Murphy built the concept around a simple ethos: high-quality, often organic or wild produce, sourced locally and cooked intelligently — what's in season goes on the plate. Jess has been named Best Chef in Connacht for her work here.
Lunch is walk-in only, served Monday to Saturday, followed by cakes and pastries from the restaurant's own bakery. Dinner ramps things up a gear, with a three-course à la carte menu that changes daily depending on the best of what's available.
The Bottom Line
Kai proves sustainable dining doesn't mean sacrificing flavour — it's Galway's quiet green pioneer, still cooking exactly what the season gives it.