I made it out to Spiddal(Co Galway of course)  just before Christmas for lunch with daughter number two who was looking for a treat.   We had a yummy lunch at An Búilin Blasta restaurant, coffee shop and bakery.  It is located at the back of the Ceardlann (Craft Village) opposite Spiddal Beach, and well worth a trip out west.  It was closed from Christmas until early Feb, but it's now back in action.  Daughter mentioned above is now driving, and looking for any excuse to steal the car.  She took a spin out there last week with a few of the girls for coffee,  scones and muffins, and gave it a second thumbs up.

I had the fish cake and Sinead had one of the foccacio sandwiches, both delicious.  I had an ulterior motive to visit as we are selling Builin Blasta's chutneys and salad dressings in the shop.  We have also recently started selling some of their great pastries, which are pure chocolate indulgence. 

I had a chat with owner J-me Peaker (that's how he spells it!) who hails from New Zealand.  He has been cooking up a storm in Spiddal for the last few years.  J-me is great to talk to, a very nice fella, and is passionate about his food.   His chutneys (apple and almond, pineapple and chilli, or red onion & tomato) go really well with cheese, cooked meats or curries.  His salad dressings are perfect for summer salads, I particularly like his raspberry and balsamic one. 

If you are passing, or would like to take a spin out west, call in.  You can also buy his bread, and his scones with cream and jam are worth every calorie.