The Flaherty sister from nearby Abbeyknockmoy have years of experience in the food and hospitality industry, and in business. Aoife was co-founder and co-owner of Il Vicolo, Galway, and Siobhan had her own place in Monivea - An Sciobal (The Barn).
In 2016 they opened their Tuam restaurant, Gather, and it was a huge success, celebrating the food and culture of the region and bringing people even from Galway city. And then came the events of 2020 and the doors were forced to close... But the sisters had long dreamt of opening a lifestyle and grocery store, so the closure of Gather gave them the chance to pivot and, wasting no time, they opened Abbert in May 2020.
Named after the townland that Aoife and Siobhan grew up in near Abbeyknockmoy, Abbert is stocked with their own in-house produce to take away or heat at home, as well as artisan produce from across the island of Ireland and beyond. As there was in Gather, there is a strong commitment to using local suppliers such as Galway Goat Farm’s cheese, Velvet Cloud’s sheep’s milk yoghurt, The Friendly Farmer, Andarl Farm, Builin Blasta, Sloehill Farm, Jeremiche’s Sourdough and Solaris Tea.
The simple burgundy frontage speaks strongly of quality, and the rustic-chic interior in complementary tones reinforces the message. Daily take-away specials might feature Potted Crab, Fish Cakes with Salsa Verde and Tartare Sauce, Vegetarian Sausage Rolls, Brady’s Beef Bourguignon, Mixed Berry Crumble and Lemon Meringue.
The in-house bread and bakes always sell out.
In the fridges, there will be Chickpea and Lentil Dahl, Seafood Chowder, Friendly Farmer Chicken Noodle Soup and Brady’s Beef Lasagne as well as quiches, charcuterie and cheese platters and pancakes.
There is a carefully considered list of wines and craft beers as well as a range of hampers.
The short menu manages to satisfy hearty appetites and keep abreast of trends.
Lifestyle products stocked include Tilted jewellery, White Witch Connemara skincare, blankets, candles, prints, scarves, pottery and much more.
