I searched for a restaurant for my friends bachelorette party that was unique, that could be "fancy", and that was affordable for all of the girls. The Oak Barrel was the perfect place! It was located about 10 minutes from the house we rented for the weekend and it was very easy to find. There was adequate parking for the restaurant and the rustic features drew us right in the door.
We were seated at a long, rectangular table right in front of a fireplace that had additional seating for other guests at the opposite end of where we were seated. A unique concept but one that is becoming more and more popular. We started off with drinks and because they were so busy, it took quite awhile to receive them; however, we were not in a rush and everyone enjoyed what they ordered. The menu contained a variety of items that I wanted to try and it was difficult to narrow it down to one! Just by reading the menu, it was obvious that this restaurant focuses on fresh, natural foods that are of high quality. I decided on The Clubhouse which contained a variety of meats and cheeses with a side of chips and homemade pickles. My sandwich was delicious, chips were average, and the girls reported that the pickles were fabulous! Everyone else's dishes looked divine and we all agreed that the restaurant was a wonderful choice! Prices are on the higher side but the quality of food lives up to them.
The only downfall I have to report is that several weeks before the bachelorette party, I called and asked if I could make reservations because I had a group of 10 people. I was told that, if I call the week before, I could reserve the table. So, I did as directed and the next person I reached said that if I call about a half hour before we want to be there, we can have a table reserved. Again, as directed, I did just that. This time I was told that they do not take reservations unless the group is much larger than 10. After explaining what I was previously told, she took my name but did not guarantee a table would be waiting for us. When we showed up, a table was ready and waiting. I would suggest that the staff is educated on what the restaurant's policy is: reservations - yes or no? To this day, I am uncertain.
The rustic decor, inviting atmosphere, and fresh food will definitely serve as reasons for me to return to this restaurant if I am ever in the area again. Give it a try!