Bananaphoblacht

Inspirational places that are no more

Banana Phoblacht

The best cafe of the 2000s, Galway, Ireland.

Step into an old space that feels big but is actually quite small. Fresh yellow paint covers the walls and a bar-like shelf lines the two walls that bracket the entryway and glass window. Several stained wooden tables are arranged in the familiar pattern of a café. A high bar at the back gives you access to the barista who has platinum close cut hair and an earring. He is chatting with an older long haired blonde Australian who has rugged handsome sun burnt features that brings a blush to your face.

The smell of chocolate pervades the air because it’s their hot chocolate that draws the customers. Chocolate with near boiling milk poured over that you have to mix with a tall spoon in a tall glass; hopeful that all of it has dissolved before you drink. Some people drink espressos and coffees and there is always tea. The place is a buzz with people talking and eating apple cake or whatever is on service. The fiddlers have arrived and they start playing a long lament, Ashokan farewell.

The café is long gone. The owner gave up the lease and it passed through many different owners since. Now, you can only walk past the storefront and remember the buzz and energy of before. No other business has been half as successful or memorable since. Maybe the clients remember and miss it.

In the evening, I sometimes break chocolate into hot milk and stir with a tall spoon thinking of the libertine days before husband and kids. A time when I was free to sit and enjoy a smooth chocolate while writing in my journal or reading a book. Then I would take a long walk over to Salthill.

The irony is at that time I wished I was here. But now, I would give anything to be back there for just half an hour.

Curious? The Dutchman who speaks Irish | Cafes in Galway on Boards.ie

This story was inspired at a virtual writing workshop I attended held by Living Hyphen.