The suburb of Swords in North County Dublin is a busy little spot. Alongside offering all the retail therapy you want, this bustling town centre is well placed for accessing the countryside of the region. A short drive from Swords lies a quiet rural area, where pretty fields and hedgerows are a haven of tranquility from city noise. You wouldn’t believe the Capital city is less than half an hour away when you hit these country roads.  North County Dublin is one of the most productive areas for vegetable growing in Ireland. Robbie Burns of Essence Bistro in Swords makes good use of it on his menu.  Essence is a casual dining restaurant, smart and sassy, always with an eye to pricing. Chef Patron Robbie is extremely proud of the region in which he was born, and only too keen to maximise on its produce in his kitchen. Each season brings a different taste. Essence is making the most of the summer season with some great special offers for menu choices.  Tuesday’s Wine and Dine features two courses with wine at a super price per couple. Wednesday is Seafood night, featuring fresh fish from the harbour at Clogherhead –  two starters and two mains at a good value set price per couple. Thursday’s Steak night choices include a Good Food Ireland Piemontese Beef Ribeye Steak supper for two, with all the usual trimmings! An Early Bird menu runs 5.30pm-10pm on Tuesdays to Fridays each week. Kids eat free from their own special menu when one adult chooses two courses. All offers run from 1st July to 31st August – in line with the holiday period!  Not to be missed is the monthly 10 Mile Tasting Menu, devised from produce sourced within a tight ten mile radius of the restaurant. That’s how confident Robbie is in the region to supply his ingredient choices. This menu highlights local produce in six superb courses at just €50.00 per person. Date is  July 1st – booking in advance absolutely essential.