As we gear up to celebrate the 120th birthday of Portwest this Saturday, May 18th, where it all began in Westport County Mayo, it’s the perfect time to explore some of the finest coffee Mayo has to offer.
County Mayo is renowned not only for its stunning landscapes and vibrant communities but also as a haven for coffee lovers, thanks to the booming café culture in Ireland. With thousand of cafes across the island, the local scene in Mayo is buzzing with places that offer more than just your caffeine fix.
They provide a warm, welcoming space to plan your adventures or unwind after a day spent in nature. Whether you're gearing up for a mountain hike or just strolling around town, a good cup of coffee can significantly elevate your outdoor experience. So, where is the best coffee in Mayo? Let’s find out together!
Can Ireland Produce Coffee?
First off, one of the most asked questions in Ireland about coffee is - Can Ireland produce coffee? Coffee needs a lot of sun directly over the plants and a warm and humid climate to flourish. So this means our climate is not suitable for growing coffee beans. However, what we lack in production, we make up for in brewing! According to research from Bewleys, Irish adults drink an average of 3 cups of coffee per day with an Americano being our most popular choice of coffee.
Award-Winning Coffee in Mayo:
For those in search of excellence, you'll find award-winning coffee in Mayo that rivals any global coffee hotspot. A standout is Bean West Coffee, located in Westport. Winning awards for their meticulously brewed selections, Bean West is a haven for those who appreciate the finer details in their cup
Where is the Best Coffee in Mayo?
Now, onto the heart of our discussion – where to find the best coffee in this picturesque county, in no particular order:
- Ginger & Wild Cafe - You’ll find Ginger & Wild at the Wild Nephin Ballycroy Visitor Centre. Described by its website as “Provides a welcoming stop on the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s light airy seating area both inside and out, offers a bird’s-eye view to Achill Island and the magical Atlantic coast.” Now, where else would you want to enjoy a cup of coffee?
- Synge & Byrne Café, Turlough Park – Right next door to The National Museum of Country Life, you’ll find this gem of a café with delicious coffee. There’s even a woodland playground and greenway cycle beside Synge & Byrne Café.
- Kelly's Kitchen, Newport – On the Wild Atlantic Way you’ll find the charming town of Newport, on the River Moy. A finalist in the Café of the Year Awards 2022, Kelly’s is famous for their mouth watering breakfasts, the perfect companion to amazing coffee.
- This Must Be the Place, Westport - This Must Be the Place in Westport is a true gem if you love coffee because they offer expertly brewed cups that capture the essence of quality and care. Known for its cozy ambiance and friendly staff, this café serves up a variety of coffee blends that are both rich in flavour and aroma, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch coffee experience in County Mayo.
- Melody's Brew, Louisburgh: - About a 25-minute drive from Westport you’ll find the seaside village of Louisburgh, nestled in Clew Bay. And if you drive towards Killeen Cemetery, you’ll see the purple Melodies Brew coffee trailer directly opposite. Melody's has been serving delicious coffee since 2021.
- Cafe Rua, Castlebar – This slice of coffee heaven is a favourite with locals in Castlebar. Well known for their service and friendly atmosphere, their coffee is divine with tons of sweet and savoury treats to keep you energised.
- Dave's Deli and Coffee Shack, Ballina- If you check out their reviews on Tripadvisor you’ll see people raving about the coffee so if find yourself in the area, be sure to call in.
Why Coffee and Outdoors Go Hand in Hand?
In your fast-paced world, taking coffee breaks and spending time outdoors are ways you might choose to take a moment for yourself. Combining the two—enjoying a coffee break while stepping outside—creates a natural synergy that offers you a double dose of relaxation and a brief respite from the grind of daily life.
Make sure you stop by Portwest – The Outdoor Shop on Shop Street in Westport this Saturday 18th of May to celebrate our 120th birthday! You can save 30% on all Portwest products instore only and the first 30 purchasing customers in our three stores in Westport Shop Street, Galway and Killarney will receive a free goodie bag.
P.S -There’s a limited edition jacket for only €19.04!