An Irishman in Groningen

After spending my whole life in Ireland, moving to Groningen feels like stepping into a familiar rhythm. Weather discussions are inevitable here in Groningen, with some claiming that summer is kinder here in the Netherlands, though others debate the nuances of rain and wind. ;-) And, of course, there are differences in culture, especially when it comes to beer and food in daily life!

Tea, Biscuits, and Black Pudding

Tea becomes a priority, as the local offerings are known to be subpar. Whether you're a Lyon's or Barry's drinker, you won't find them in the supermarkets here. However, for the diehards out there, you are in luck in Groningen you can visit the little shop of  Kruidenier Wolters Groningen. They offer a selection of Irish, and English teas, plus much more. And of course, you can't have a cup of tea without a biscuit so finding a familiar biscuit was a must. Luckily, the supermarkets in Groningen have you covered. My favourite option is definitely Prince biscuits.

Irish breakfast in Groningen

Is there a place in Groningen where they serve a real Irish Breakfast? I have not discovered it. So therefore I will keep this memory of home here.

Dutch food, has some similarities to Irish cuisine. Surprises  like the Dutch stamppot, described as colcannon with a twist, or Bloedworst, a Dutch take on black pudding serves as a reminder of the flavours of Ireland. However, my favourite similarity in terms of food must be Kibbeling. This Dutch street food is small pieces of deep fried white fish, often cod, and reminds me of fish and chips, minus the chips. The good news is that the Netherlands has webshops for these kinds of 'expat groceries'. Visit Kell Expat Shopping for Irish Groceries!

Irish Beer and Lager in Groningen

The Groningen' beer scene surprises visitors; while most bars serve cheap lager, a few craft beer spots stand out with impressive selections. The quest for a quality Guinness remains, though the craft beers offer a satisfying alternative. Conversations in bars often bring me to the same conclusion, locals believe that Dublin is a reflection of the whole of Ireland, this is not the case. Oops! The shock of this misunderstanding highlights the importance of cultural connections, especially among neighbours. And the best place to make cultural connections is at the bar—joined by good music, of course!

Irish Transportation versus Groningen

A significant difference between the two countries is how people get around, to start in the Netherlands all on the right side of the road.In Ireland, it’s common to drive everywhere, but in the heart of Groningen, a car is often unnecessary. Many streets either prohibit vehicles, are one-way, or are quite narrow. Additionally, ongoing roadworks can be a source of frustration for drivers. As many might know, biking is the preferred mode of transport here and often gets you to your destination faster than a car.

If you’re not ready to buy a bike immediately, you can opt for a ‘swapfiets,’ a cost-effective rental option where you pay monthly for a bike. Buses in Groningen are also known for their reliability and punctuality—something I rarely encountered back home, where public transport can be unpredictable. Although the Irish Red Setter on the bus company logo implies they are quick ;-)

Irish Pubs in Groningen

O'Malley's

Located in the heart of Groningen, O’Malley’s offers a truly authentic Irish pub experience. With its friendly staff, a wide range of Irish and international brews, and a menu filled with traditional pub food, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving a slice of Ireland. From the iconic Guinness adorned with foam designs to a diverse selection of Irish, Scottish, and American whiskeys, O’Malley’s has something for every taste. Why not try one of their Irish beers like Kilkenny Red Ale or the refreshing Guinness IPA? And don’t forget to pair your drink with comforting Irish classics like beef and Guinness stew or fish and chips—perfect for a hearty meal. O’Malley’s also comes alive with traditional Irish music performances and open jam sessions every Wednesday. If you’re not into music, join their lively pub quizzes or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere during sports events broadcast regularly.

O'Ceallaigh's

Right in the city center, O’Ceallaigh’s transports you straight to Ireland with its cozy, Irish-themed interior. This warm, inviting pub is ideal for relaxing with friends or meeting new ones. The bar offers an excellent selection of Irish whiskeys, draught beers, and ciders, making it the perfect place for a drink and a snack.

O’Ceallaigh’s charm shines through its live music, featuring traditional Irish sessions every Sunday and open stage nights on Wednesdays. These performances create a lively, energetic atmosphere that sets the pub apart and gives it that unmistakable Irish vibe.

The Dublin Legends Visit Groningen on October 8th

If the live music nights at O'Ceallaigh's and O'Malley's don't satisfy your craving for traditional Irish music, look no further than Oosterpoort, also known as Spot. The Dublin Legends, formerly known as The Dubliners, will be performing this Tuesday in what is sure to be an unforgettable night. This iconic band is sure to have everyone singing along to their world-class renditions of songs such as “The Fields of Athenry” or “Whiskey in the Jar.” Be sure to get your tickets quickly before they are all gone! You can purchase tickets here.

Celtic Folk Festival on October 28 

The little sister of the Rapalje Folk Festival  also known as Summerfolk  (organized by the well-known band Rapalje) is coming to EM2 in October with a Halloween theme! Mark October 28, 2024, in your calendar and enjoy delightful folk music from renowned Irish and Scottish bands: Scrum, Rapalje, Fling & Chris Murphy. 

The Irish Community in Groningen

Unfortunately, while there are many positive aspects, both Ireland and Groningen are facing significant housing challenges. So if you need a room, start looking early or find some Irish friends that are already living in Groningen. All in all you will find Irish Culture in Groningen when you search for it.  In Groningen, being from Ireland means you’re never truly alone. Over 300 Irish students are enrolled at the University of Groningen, and a vibrant Irish community thrives in the city. Hope you liked my article, see you!