I was staying in Rathmines for a week recently and checked this place out a few times but only ended up eating here once.
The Swan Centre location is convenient and Fallon & Byrne appealed to me since it is open later than most, if not all, the other businesses there. The set-up is very inviting - fresh baked bread at the entrance, coffee/breakfast bar in sight, gorgeous, fresh fruit and veggies, a great selection of cheese, and prepared gourmet dishes - all of which can be taken home or eaten on site in the comfortable seating area in the back.
I ventured in for a later than usual bite one evening and talked with a very friendly employee that gave me her recommendation for a wine/cheese pairing which came with brown bread, cheddar and a jam. I am not sure if it was because it was late and the bread had been out all day but it was disappointingly dry. And while I am a fan of different types of jam/cheese combinations, this jam tasted terrible and was inedible. Both the cheddar and Cabernet Sauvignon were quite tasty and saved the day.
For what I had, I felt the pricing was too high. But I wouldn't be opposed to trying other dishes there the next time I am in town to give it another chance. read more