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Summary: Cheap Eats Galway Races
- On the hunt for some cheap eats during Galway Races week? This is your guide to affordable food and drinks during Ireland’s biggest racing event.
- Discover great food near Galway Racecourse, from burger places to late-night noodles and local pizza legends.
- Find pubs near Galway Races that won’t charge race-day prices, including hidden gems and city-centre staples.
- Learn how to avoid tourist traps and what time to eat for the best value.
- The Dawson Hostel Galway is your central base for the races. See our full Galway Races accommodation guide to plan your stay.
Race Week in Galway: Big Crowds, Bigger Prices; Unless You Know Where to Go
The Galway Races bring massive crowds, buzzing energy, and a full city vibe, but also long queues and inflated prices if you’re not careful. Whether you’re here for Ladies Day or a midweek flutter, knowing where to eat and drink on a budget can make or break your experience.
This guide shares where to find cheap eats during Galway Races week, plus pubs near the Racecourse that won’t wipe out your wallet. Perfect for racegoers staying at The Dawson Hostel Galway or anyone navigating the action without overspending.
Best Cheap Eats Near Galway Racecourse
🍔 Shake Dog (Wellpark Retail Park)
Craving comfort food before the first race? Shake Dog is just a short walk from Ballybrit Racecourse. It’s a go-to for burgers, fries, shakes, fast service and friendly prices.
🍕 The Dough Bros (Middle Street)
Legendary in Galway for a reason. Affordable, award-winning wood-fired pizza just minutes from Eyre Square. Perfect if you’re staying central and want a solid meal before heading to the track.
🥡 Xi’an Street Food (Quay Street)
Affordable and full of flavor. Their spice bags and hand-pulled noodles are a hit with locals and visitors alike. Great for a quick bite in between races or late-night refuel after the pubs.
🌯 Boojum (Spanish Parade)
A filling burrito for under €10? Yes please. Boojum is ideal if you need fast, budget-friendly fuel before heading out to Ballybrit.
🍗 Mizzoni’s Pizza (Doughiska Road)
If you’re staying on the east side of the city near the Racecourse, Mizzoni’s delivers great deals on pizza and sides. Perfect for groups or a chill night in.
Budget-Friendly Pubs Near the Galway Races
🍺 The Front Door Pub (Cross Street)
Busy, central, and not outrageously priced during race week. Grab a pint, share some wings, and soak up the race-day atmosphere with the crowd.
🍷 The Dew Drop Inn (Mainguard Street)
A proper old-school Galway pub with fair pricing and a local crowd. Just around the corner from The Dawson Hostel, perfect for a quick pint before bed.
Tips to Eat & Drink Smart During Galway Races Week
- Eat Early or Late: Avoid peak race times (5-8 pm) when prices spike and queues are endless. Lunch specials are your best friend.
- Preload Your Snacks: Food at Galway Racecourse can be pricey and hit-or-miss. Grab a sandwich or wrap in town before heading out.
- Avoid Tourist Traps: Restaurants near Eyre Square hike prices during race week. Stick to trusted local spots like the ones above.
- Stay Central: Being able to walk to pubs, takeaways and your hostel makes all the difference. The Dawson Hostel Galway keeps you close to everything, no taxis needed.
Why Stay at The Dawson Hostel Galway for the Races?
Race week is busy, and the closer you are to the action, the better. The Dawson Hostel Galway is central, affordable, and walking distance to the city’s best cheap eats, pubs, and the main transport routes to Ballybrit.
You’ll save money on taxis, be right near the post-race buzz, and have a clean, friendly place to crash after a big day. We’ve also got dorms, private rooms, and helpful staff who know the city inside out.
If you haven’t booked yet, don’t miss our full Galway Races accommodation guide for all the race-week essentials.