Barrel and Grain

“People who love to eat are always the best people” Julia Child

A few weeks ago I was introduced to Barrel and Grain thru Twitter. After a few Tweets and emails back and forth, they invited me to come check out their restaurant and try some of the food and beer last week.

I thought about going alone, but brought Huck along. And I’m SO glad he came. {You’ll see why in a minute.}

Barrel & Grain is located in Downtown West Palm. They opened at the end of March {the week of the West Palm Beach Boat Show}.

While walking in, I instantly feel in love with the brick floors and chandeliers. It had a old wine cellar feel. I picked a spot at the bar, so we had a good view of the Beer Menu.

Chef Kevin came out and introduced himself. He gave us a little history about himself and the restaurant. The part I loved most, 85% of the food he serves is sourced locally. Their menu is seasonal and changes based on what is in season and available locally. I’m a huge fan of Farm to Table and supporting local businesses. During our conversation, I could tell he had a passion for food, and I couldn’t wait to see what we had in store.

Chef Kevin headed to the kitchen while Daniel took our drink order. I started with a Gnarly Barley {supporting the locals} and Huck ordered a Old Engine Oil Engineer’s Reserve from Harviestoun Brewery. It looked just like old engine oil, too.

A few minutes later Chef Kevin brought out a few starters.

First up, Beer Battered Jalapenos{$7}. He said this was a play on Jalapeno Poppers. He battered sliced Jalapenos in a tempura batter using a Hefeweizen from Harpoon Brewery {UFO White}. They were served with a Cheese Sauce made with an IPA and Blueberry Jam. The Jalapenos had a nice spicy that paired great with the sweet Blueberry Jam.

We also tried the Tempura Brie Sticks{$9}. These were a play on Mozzarella Sticks. The same Tempura batter was used for these, and they were served with Hefeweizen Poached Pears.

The fried brie was amazing, but the pears stole the show. I wanted a large bowl full of them.

While we were licking the plates enjoying our starters, Chef brought out Buttermilk Fried Oysters{$10}. He told us these were not made with Beer but they’re really good and wanted us to try them. I’m not going to lie. I’ve never been a fan of Fried Oysters. I grew up eating Raw Oysters, and find fried usually come out tasting like breaded rubber bands.

The Oysters were served with a Tomato and Onion Chow Chow and homemade Remoulade sauce. And Lemon:)

These were the highlight of my day! They tasted like a raw oyster with breading! He said the trick is soaking them in the Buttermilk and a quick fry. He told us he trains all this staff how to properly cook Oysters. I told him they how I wasn’t a fan of fried oysters before and these were almost better than raw! Huck and I both agreed when we go back, we’re getting the Oysters!

While we were fighting over the Oysters he brought out another plate {see why I’m glad Huck came… minus the fact I had to share the Oysters with him}.

Pork Belly {$14} marinated in Sierra Nevada. The meat was served with a Maple Chili Glaze and a Port Wine Reduction.

I think it’s safe to say we liked it!

We were both talking about how awesome everything was, when he brought out the entree.

I was convinced I couldn’t eat anymore. Until I tried the Polenta. I could make room!

First, we had the Lamb Shank {$18} that was Braised in Weyerbacher Double Simcoe and served with Polenta and Brussels Sprouts. The meat was tender and flavorful. I keep going back for more of the sauce and polenta.

We also tried the Brined Pork {$26} with Pearl Barley Risotto. They used Cigar City’s Jai Alai for this dish. Huck devoured it. It was a little to salty for my taste, but still really good. Huck said it was the perfect amount of salt for him.

There was one more dish we had to try… Dessert. There’s always room for dessert, right?

Barney Flats Oatmeal Stout Ice Cream with Homemade Waffles topped with Whip Cream and house made Canadian Bacon{$8}.

We loved everything about it…

As you can tell.

Barrel & Grain is open Saturday and Sunday for Brunch. I told Huck I wanted to come back for more Waffles and $9 Bottomless Mimosa.

Me and Chef Kevin

Huck and I left full and happy! We truly enjoyed our experience at Barrel & Grain. The atmosphere was inviting, the people were great, and the food was delicious.

I find it hard to find a place that has great beer and great food, but this place definitely has both. I’m 100% sure we will be back soon.

Thank you Chef Kevin and the rest of the Barrel and Grain staff for a great experience.

Disclosure: The food and drinks were provided to me free of charge, but the opinions are all my own!