Galway to Lose Michelin-Starred Restaurant for Winter as Crisis Looms

Galway in the west of Ireland is to lose one of only two Michelin-starred restaurants, as it goes into hibernation over the winter.

As the tourist season comes to a close in the region, Loam has decided to shutter for the winter in the face of a staff shortage crisis and rising energy bills.

The restaurant announced its closure from September 20th, when all staff will be transferred to Éan, its sister café, bakery and restaurant in the city.

“Facing such uncertainty this winter and after much deliberation, we have decided to close Loam for the winter season," owners Enda McEvoy and wife Sinéad Meacle told the Connacht Tribune.

“It’s been a great spring and summer season, better than we could have imagined really, however, we are acutely feeling the effects of staff shortages and spiralling costs as is widespread across the industry.”

“So instead of continuing with both restaurants, we have decided to hibernate Loam for the winter and amalgamate all staff into Éan and continue to develop what we have started on Druid Lane. This has not been an easy decision by any means, but we believe it is the correct one for us right now.”

Loam will open for some events over the winter, including private functions, music and wine tastings.