There’s a special kind of warmth that greets you when you step into Gatto Rosso, Eyre Square’s much-loved Italian gem. Opened in June 2021, during the challenging outdoor dining-only period, this restaurant has since thrived against the odds, becoming one of Galway’s most consistently busy dining spots. And it’s easy to see why.
From the moment you enter, the atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between relaxed and refined. The interior is inviting, rustic, with exposed brick, elegant lighting, and accents of deep red and green that nod to Italy’s rich culinary heritage.
But while the decor sets the scene, it’s the food and the service that truly impress.
Starters that set the bar high
We began with the Trio of Bruschetta, a vibrant starter that captures the freshness of good Italian cooking. Slices of toasted ciabatta arrive topped with a trio of flavours: marinated tomato bursting with sweetness, silky ricotta crowned with sun-dried tomato, and a basil pesto that adds just the right touch of earthiness. Each bite is light yet full of flavour, setting the tone for the meal ahead.
Equally delightful was the Insalata Caprese, a dish that proves simplicity can be sublime. Thick slices of ripe tomatoes and creamy buffalo mozzarella were layered with fragrant basil leaves, finished with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Accompanying the salad was a slice of garlic bread, perfect for mopping up the remaining dressing. It’s a dish that’s as much about texture as it is taste, soft mozzarella meeting juicy tomato, all lifted by that sharp-sweet balsamic.
Pasta perfection
From there, the meal moved into the realm where Italian comfort food truly shines: pasta. The Paccheri alla Amatriciana was a standout. Served with a flourish, the wide, tubular pasta was coated in a rich tomato sauce with crispy pancetta, red onion, and a hint of chilli. It’s deeply savoury and beautifully balanced, the smokiness of the pancetta giving way to a slow, warming heat that lingers just long enough to remind you it’s there. Every element feels deliberate, the seasoning precise, the sauce velvety and generous.
For purists, the Traditional Paccheri alla Carbonara is a triumph. Made in true traditional style: no cream, just egg yolks, parmesan, and pancetta, it’s indulgent without being heavy. The sauce clings to each piece of pasta, glossy and rich, with the freshness of the eggs shining through. A sprinkle of black pepper rounds it off, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is sophisticated. It’s the kind of carbonara that earns its reputation rather than coasting on it.
Then came the Paccheri alla Boscaiola, another creamy creation that highlights the chef’s southern Italian flair. Tender pieces of chicken mingle with pancetta and mushrooms in a delicate white wine and cream sauce. It’s smooth, deeply savoury, and wonderfully moreish, the kind of dish you find yourself reluctantly sharing, knowing full well you could finish it alone.
Seafood and risotto done right
Gatto Rosso’s seafood dishes also hold their own. The Prawn Risotto is a prime example of how balance and restraint can elevate a classic. Creamy Arborio rice forms the base, infused with a light tomato sauce and a touch of chilli. Pan-fried prawns sit on top, perfectly cooked and sweet, offering a beautiful contrast to the warmth of the rice. Each bite showcases a subtle interplay of creaminess, spice, and freshness —the hallmark of a well-executed risotto.
The Sea Bass is another showstopper. Marinated in dill, paprika, and butter, the fish is cooked to perfection, with crisp skin giving way to flaky, tender flesh. It’s served atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and drizzled with lemon butter, adding brightness to every forkful. I opted for the side of seasonal vegetables: mange tout, carrots, tenderstem broccoli, and spinach, all cooked in butter and seasoned just right. The combination is satisfying, comforting and light in equal measure. According to the restaurant's friendly staff, it is one of Gatto Rosso's most popular dishes, and after tasting it, it’s not hard to understand why.
Pizza with southern soul
Of course, no Italian dining experience would be complete without pizza, and Gatto Rosso delivers here too. The Burrata della Casa Pizza is one of the best in town. It arrives with a crisp, golden crust and a white base layered with pesto, pistachio, and thin slices of ham. In the centre sits a generous portion of creamy burrata, its richness spilling beautifully into the other ingredients. The balance of flavours, salty ham, nutty pesto, and delicate cheese, is nothing short of perfection.
It’s the kind of pizza that feels authentically southern Italian, crafted with pride and tradition.
Service with heart
What elevates the experience at Gatto Rosso isn’t just the quality of the food, but the warmth of the service. From the moment you arrive, staff strike the ideal balance between attentiveness and ease. They are knowledgeable without being overbearing, offering recommendations with genuine enthusiasm. There’s a sense that everyone here, from the front of house to the kitchen, takes pride in creating a memorable experience.
That professionalism is no accident. The head chef hails from Naples, and it shows in every dish that leaves the kitchen. His commitment to authentic southern Italian cooking, combined with Galway’s love for fresh, local produce, makes for a menu that feels both traditional and fresh.
The verdict
Since opening its doors in the midst of one of the toughest times for hospitality, Gatto Rosso has more than earned its place on Galway’s dining map. It is a restaurant that pairs Italian soul with Irish warmth, and every visit feels like an invitation to slow down, savour and enjoy.
From the first bite of bruschetta to the final forkful of sea bass, everything here feels considered and well-executed. The flavours are balanced, the portions generous, and the presentation stylish without ever straying into pretension. The interior ambience, with its blend of comfort and elegance, provides the perfect backdrop for everything from casual lunches to celebratory dinners.
If you’re looking for a restaurant that captures the essence of southern Italy without leaving Eyre Square, Gatto Rosso is a must-visit. The food is faultless, the service first-class, and the atmosphere effortlessly welcoming.
In short: bellissimo.
