Barley Swine: A Michelin-Starred Dining Experience in Austin
As part of our series celebrating the launch of the Michelin Guide in Texas, we visited Barley Swine, a one-Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant in Austin known for its focus on seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Stepping into the restaurant, we were immediately struck by the warm and inviting atmosphere, which set the tone for the evening.
Atmosphere and Service: A Cozy Setting for Fine Dining
Barley Swine’s decor is designed to create a comfortable and inviting space for diners, with warm lighting and rustic touches that reflect the restaurant’s focus on local ingredients. The attentive and professional service throughout the evening enhanced the overall experience, making us feel welcome and well-cared for.
Standout Dishes and Repetitive Ingredients: A Mixed Bag
As we navigated through the tasting menu, we encountered several standout dishes that showcased the best of Texas’ seasonal offerings. The chicken fried eggplant surprised us with its interesting combination of flavors and textures, even if it didn’t quite deliver the crunch we anticipated. The beef course and the perfectly cooked halibut also left a lasting impression, highlighting the kitchen’s skill in preparing a variety of ingredients.
Despite the flavor and cooking being on point for most the menu (excluding the duck, which wasn’t as good as the rest), the repetition of certain ingredients, particularly the banana peppers, became a noticeable drawback as the meal progressed. The overuse of this ingredient across multiple courses led to a sense of monotony, leaving us craving a more diverse and creative approach to the menu.
Accommodating Allergies: Falling Short of Expectations
One of the most significant disappointments of our visit to Barley Swine was the way they handled dietary restrictions. Despite the restaurant’s claim to accommodate most allergies, the substitutions provided for one of our party members felt lazy and underwhelming. The frequent replacement of sauces with yogurt often detracted from the overall enjoyment of the dishes.
This issue was particularly evident in the dessert course, where the allergy-friendly alternative paled in comparison to the regular offering. The lack of effort and creativity in crafting a satisfying dessert for those with dietary restrictions was a letdown.
Value and Reservations: Accessibility and Affordability
The tasting menu at Barley Swine is priced at $125 per person, which we consider a great value compared to other Michelin starred restaurants. And for those who have more time flexibility, we encourage you to take advantage of their Sunday early booking discount; for the first 30 minutes of service on Sundays, diners can enjoy $30 off the tasting menu, bringing the price down to $95 per person.
Dinner service begins at 5 PM on Thursdays and Fridays, and at 4:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Securing a reservation at Barley Swine is relatively straightforward, and the restaurant’s complementary valet parking adds a touch of convenience, although the limited space may require some patience during peak hours.
Final Thoughts: A Michelin-Starred Experience with Room for Improvement
Our visit to Barley Swine was characterized by a mix of highs and lows. While the warm atmosphere and select standout dishes showcased the restaurant’s potential, the repetitive ingredients and disappointing allergy accommodations left us feeling that there was room for improvement.
For diners without dietary restrictions, Barley Swine can provide an enjoyable fine dining experience, especially when taking advantage of the early booking discount on Sundays. However, those with allergies should approach the restaurant with caution, as the accommodations may not meet the expectations one would have for a Michelin-starred establishment.
Address: 6555 Burnet Rd #400, Austin, TX 78757
Reservations: Available on Tock
Dinner Price: $125 per person, with a $30 discount for the first 30 minutes of service on Sundays
Hours: Thursday & Friday: 5 PM - 9 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 4:30 PM - 9 PM
