The Butler’s Pantry

Definately aimed at the high end market. They offer a catering service as well and menus of what is available are there to pick up in the shop. I have to admit I only browsed here but would definately consider it for special ocassions.

When I grow up and am rich and do my shopping from my Land Rover, (not on foot in battered running shoes), I will probably head here to get my pre-​prepared foods. While I was skulking around a well-​dressed woman swanned in to get a tart for her Sunday dessert. She seemed to demonstrate the target market.
The food does look really good in this small shop, and although it is expensive, you get the feeling that it’s something closer to homemade than the supermarkets. I had an experience something like Jo M’s though. I saw what looked like yummy chocolate biscuit cake only to be really disappointed. It was sticky, a bit hard and not chocolatey enough. They had also put Maltesers into it which seems like it might work, but didn’t. I make a nicer one and I’m up for a bake-​off if they challenge that!
The guy serving me was lovely though, and had a great chat with the well-​dressed woman who was obviously a regular too. The sense of community was pleasant. I’ll have to try the tart she bought-​maybe she’s in the know?

The Butler’s Pantry does have an air of the upmarket about it, so I don’t shop there as a general rule, but every now and then I poke my head in for a bit of a look.
Sometimes this can be well rewarded — like the day I managed to pick up a delish pre-​packaged but gourmet baked salmon and potato salad for half price (which made it around 3.50 and cheaper than buying a sambo). Other times it’s not so great, like when you order a cute looking vanilla cupcake and bite into it expectantly, only to discover it’s actually icky lemon flavour…
Coffee and tea are served here, as are some delectable sweet treats, but on the downside there are no chairs and tables to eat them at. The Butler’s Pantry would do well to invest in a couple of outdoor tables, to attract more bassers-​by away from the neighbouring cafes in Clontarf village.