I visited during the week and was greeted by a young girl who sanitised the soles of our shoes. This young girl was extremely nervous and I actually felt it was quite disrespectful that she had to sanitise our shoes. I believe the customer should...have to do this themselves. We went upstairs and the gentleman who owns the restaurant came over and went through the COVID regulations which we had already read as we had the leaflet in front of us for 10mins previous. I could not believe the price of the food, 18.50 for chicken balls, 18 euro for chicken curry. Anyway we said we would treat ourselves. We decided to get 1 chicken curry, chips and rice between us as we wouldn't eat that much. We were told this was not possible and I would have to purchase something that costs minimum 15euro. I asked for a few mins to have another look at the menu. I decided to get a half portion of chicken curry and chips. The owner asked me at least 6 times are you sure thats what you want. Maybe you will try something spicy. I repeatedly told him I don't like spicy food I want chicken curry. My partner asked for chicken curry and half chips and half rice and was told this was not possible. At this stage we really had enough. We both decided we felt extremely uncomfortable and wanted to leave. I told the young girl and she said ok but looked terrified. I really do feel for her as she looked so nervous and scared the whole time we were there. As we were leaving the owner approached us and asked was everything ok (as he had said due to COVID you cannot leave your seat when you are in the restaurant!!). I briefly said we are not happy with the service and he started to plea with us, oh I can do the chicken curry for you etc etc. I had to tell him four times we want to leave we have made our decision and he eventually allowed us to leave! Never again will I step foot inside that place. We both felt so intimidated and uncomfortable, trying to be forced into things. The place was dead and there is no surprise that the restaurant prices are not available on the website. I cannot comment on the food but it is extremely over priced and appalling customer service. hopefully that young girl leaves and gets a better job where she can be more comfortable.More

We had a meal here on Thursday the 20th. Lovely food very friendly staff. Full covid plan in place. Staff extremely helpful in trying to find us a taxi. If in Ballina again would definitely go back

What a professional team of employees at the lantern restaurant! I’ve been to this place a couple of times pre Covid and the food is always amazing- but our most recent visit was just top notch! When booking, we were sent a text message outlining...the new HSE guidelines to adhere to which was very helpful! Upon arrival, we waited at the outside door to be greeted by a member of staff who then took our temperatures and sanitised our feet! We felt safe immediately! As we were escorted to our table we had a booklet to read regarding Covid rules which was later explained in detail! Just amazing work! This team should be so so proud of the hard work and effort they put in to ensure all customers are kept safe , along with maintaining the highest of food standards! Oh and the food was AMAZING!!!!!!! But that was no surprise 😁 Can’t wait to go back! Well done to all involved! Massive, massive achievement! Thank you !More

Yum yum yum! Had the most amazing meal here but also wanted to acknowledge the care they have taken to reopen. I felt incredibly safe eating here and the way they are managing reservations is a cut above every other restaurant in the country. Would...highly recommend!More

First off. This Restaurant is in a stunning location overlooking the river Moy in Ballina. The food was delicious and portions plentiful. What compelled me to write this review is the sheer professionalism of the staff. The booking process was efficient, welcoming and accommodating. We...were then text a booking confirmation and asked to fill out a contact tracing form online prior to arrival. We were also given instructions to call a number and have our temperature taken prior to entering the restaurant. We were instructed to sanitise our hands and our shoes were sprayed with disinfectant. This is the most enjoyable meal i have had since the start of Covid-19 because i immediately felt comfortable that i was safe as the restaurant had gone to such lengths to ensure my safety. Tripadvisor/ anyone with the power reading this review. The Lantern Ballina deserve an AWARD for how they are managing this crisis and EVERY RESTAURANT IN THE COUNTRY could stand to learn something from the way they are doing things. Thank you so much for a lovely safe evening.More

Recently visited this local establishment with my partner. This was his first time to eat in The Lantern & he is completely blown away by both the food & premises. It is without doubt the best Chinese food you will get, everything is amazing. We...had chicken wings, chicken satay sticks, sweet & sour chicken & the Lantern’s speciality Chicken Dry, Hot & Spicy which was incredible. You will not get anything similar to this anywhere. The premises is beautifully decorated overlooking the famous River Moy. Staff are very attentive & friendly. Highly recommend the Lantern if you are in Ballina, you won’t be disappointed. Book in advance as it’s busy particularly at peak times. Well done to all of the team. MarieMore

This is a Chinese restaurant trying to up their game to charge Dublin prices. The food was OK but not brilliant - nothing really to complain about apart from the price of it. The restaurant itself is very nice as are the staff very professional...- to pay €19 for a chicken curry and rice is really rediculous. Reduce your prices fill your restaurant and create an atmosphere.More