THE GOURMET HUNTER
(Justin Thomas)
Presents:
The Barrel House
The Barrel House at 501 East Broadway has shortly become a staple in the local dining community. They offering a friendly atmosphere and a dining experience that is outstanding. Besides boasting exquisite food and service The Barrel House offers live entertainment and a wide array of adult beverages including local brews.
As a local Chef and writer my taste buds
have led me here a time or two, but I would like to share my experience today,
and proudly make this my first contribution to the paper.
Since 2017 Nancy and Susann Briggs have gone out of their way to create a fun, friendly food experience. In 2020 they moved the business from downtown to the new location at 501 East Broadway. Since the opening of the new location the business has boomed Both friends and family alike will find a welcome place to visit and enjoy an outstanding meal. Even the local PD visit from time to time. “We know all the best places in town!” – Officer Brian Brown said before he rushed out on a call.
Walking in I was
greeted with the warm, and inviting aroma of fresh baked bread and cinnamon.
The decor is wall to wall eclectic crafts and of course whiskey barrels
creating an atmosphere that screams casual comfort, and down-home style. Being a
lovely East Texas day, I decided to take my seat on the open-air patio, where
the cool spring breeze added a second layer of solace.
After being greeted by my waitress (Megan) I ordered a locally brewed blonde ale named (Backstory), it was perfectly flavored and ultimately complimented the meal. As with all my reviews I request recommendations from the Chef (Susann) and make my decision from those options. I decided with little hesitation on the hand breaded chicken fried steak, with sautéed green beans, and house made mashed potatoes, and fresh focaccia bread and boy was I happy in doing so! The anticipation had me unable to sit still in my seat. After a short wait maybe 5 minutes my waitress Megan brought my plate.
I
could smell the dish before it was even on the table, after a few pictures it
was time to dig in. The steak was tender and juicy, with the crispiest of
crusts it was so full of flavor it still has my mouth watering as I am writing
this, the green beans were a perfect edition to the meal adding the perfect
balance of sweet and savory with a snap that seemed fresh from the garden. The house
made smashed potatoes were soft and fluffy with just the right amount of butter
and cream. The focaccia was lightly toasted creating and crispy crust and
savory chewy center, it’s very obvious Susann and the rest of the kitchen staff
put a lot of heart into every dish.
I opted out of dessert as I usually do, but with the portion sizes I wouldn’t have been able to regardless. I did ask Megan about the choices and what the favorite was, she and the other staff were quick to tell me about the house made bread pudding that comes drizzled with chocolate sauce and sprinkled with confectioner’s sugar. This dish is served two ways, standard or deep fried. I was told the deep-fried option was reminiscent of a carnival funnel cake. They also offer locally sourced pies, and delicious cheesecakes!
I had a wonderful experience from top to bottom, Five Stars all around! The Barrel House is definitely a place to add to your list, so next time you are out stop in! Till next time, Happy Eating!
