Take a minute to scan your surroundings. Are you in a familiar place or somewhere new? Stop reading this, and just look around you. Pick an object, maybe something you hadn't noticed before, and focus your attention on it. If you really focus, it'll get brighter and more 'real' than it was when it was just an unnoticed piece of the background noise of your life. Now, try to view your surroundings from the point of the object. Some people can do this with no effort, and for others it takes some concentration, you may notice a slight shift in your perception, a weird jump in reality. Where you are suddenly viewing the world from a different perspective.
Passing by 56 Central for example you might not be aware of the magic that lies inside. With countless restaurants and bistros down Shop Street, it's easy for a business to get lost in the cobbles. Venture inside though and you'll find an authentically vibrant, distinctive, and visually uplifting space, that's managed to capture the heart of Galway, even if for some outsiders it might have gone unnoticed.
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| ( Photo courtesy of Love Joules ) |
Banqueting there last week, I got the opportunity to try out some of the fine cuisine on offer. Created to suit all tastes, the menu on hand was rich with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten or dairy free options, alternatives that are far too often overlooked. Everything served was prepared with immense skill, a clear testament to the chef and kitchen staff. This is where people assemble to savour the best flavours of the city.
The mini fish cakes I had were mouthwatering and the nacho canapés and potato bravas were so enticing that I couldn't avoid making a pig of myself when they graced the table. I'm infamous for being ruthless with spicy food, next time I'll come with a warning or a Joey Tribbiani label. The venue's approach to cooking was impressive, with each ingredient locally sourced.
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| ( Picture courtesy of Wild Cosmia ) |
A huge part of the dining experience involved soaking in the sleek surroundings that you're nested into. Dynamic features and pieces designed entirely by local artists are prominent throughout the building. It makes for a quirky, intimate and elegant atmosphere.
Different rooms within the establishment represent various ethics and values of the business. Exploring themes of love, connection and culture there's an integrity and an abundance of charisma to be taken from the setting. I could sense 56 Central's vision, as well as the overall craft and effort that went into shaping the sheer brilliance of the place.
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| ( Photo courtesy of Wild Cosmia ) |
Our host Gill was fantastic. From arrival it was obvious that we were due to receive a very high level of service. She encouraged questions, unintentionally showcasing her professionalism and expertise. I felt very welcomed but also learned a lot.
Things aren't always what they seem, and I love that. Decide now to take control of your own perception of reality, you might uncover something special too.
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As always opinions are entirely my own, I received no fee to write this. I was invited along to 56 Central as part of The Into The West Blogger Network Mixer Evening where each guest got to sample their menu for review purposes.
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