Nestled in the heart of State College, PA, Barrel 21 Distillery & Dining offers a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience. This establishment stands out with its commitment to locally-sourced ingredients and a constantly evolving seasonal menu that celebrates the freshest flavors of each season.
From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the culinary artistry awaiting you. The masterminds behind Barrel 21 have meticulously crafted a menu that seamlessly blends classic dishes with innovative twists, ensuring that every bite is a delightful surprise.
What sets Barrel 21 apart is its unwavering dedication to supporting local farmers and purveyors. The chefs take pride in sourcing the finest ingredients from the surrounding region, ensuring that each dish is not only bursting with flavor but also deeply connected to the local terroir. This farm-to-table philosophy permeates every aspect of the dining experience, from the fresh produce used in salads to the locally raised meats that grace the entrees.
Crafted Cocktails and Libations
At Barrel 21 Distillery & Dining, the art of crafting exceptional cocktails is a passion that shines through every libation. The cocktail menu is a masterful blend of creativity, locally-sourced ingredients, and time-honored techniques, offering a truly unique and unforgettable experience for every guest.
Seasonal Cocktails
Embracing the changing seasons, Barrel 21’s cocktail menu features a rotating selection of seasonal offerings that capture the essence of each time of year. From the bright, refreshing flavors of spring and summer to the rich, warming notes of fall and winter, these cocktails are a celebration of nature’s bounty.
Barrel Aged Cocktails
One of the true standouts at Barrel 21 is their barrel-aged cocktail program. Carefully crafted and aged in charred oak barrels, these libations take on a depth of flavor and complexity that is truly remarkable. Each sip is a journey through layers of nuanced notes, from the subtle vanilla and caramel notes imparted by the barrel to the bold, robust flavors of the spirits themselves.
B21 Favorites
While the seasonal and barrel-aged offerings are ever-changing, Barrel 21 also features a selection of house favorites that have become beloved staples among regulars. These cocktails showcase the distillery’s mastery of classic techniques and their ability to put a unique twist on time-honored recipes.
Prohibition Era & Classic Cocktails
For those seeking a taste of history, Barrel 21’s menu pays homage to the golden age of cocktails with a selection of Prohibition-era and classic libations. Meticulously crafted with the finest ingredients and techniques, these cocktails transport guests back to a time when the art of mixology was at its zenith.
Dessert Cocktails
No cocktail menu would be complete without a selection of indulgent dessert offerings. Barrel 21’s dessert cocktails are a true treat for the senses, combining rich, decadent flavors with the perfect balance of sweetness and spirit. From creamy, chocolatey delights to tantalizing fruit-forward concoctions, these cocktails are the perfect way to cap off a memorable dining experience.
Brunch at Barrel 21
Barrel 21’s brunch menu is a true celebration of locally-sourced ingredients and creative culinary artistry. From the moment you step into the warm and inviting atmosphere, you’ll be greeted by the tantalizing aromas of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling skillets.
The brunch offerings at Barrel 21 are a delightful blend of classic favorites and innovative twists. Start your day with a hearty helping of their signature Barrel 21 Benedict, featuring locally sourced ham, perfectly poached eggs, and a decadent hollandaise sauce atop a toasted English muffin. For those seeking a lighter fare, the Seasonal Fruit and Yogurt Parfait is a refreshing and nutritious option, layered with creamy yogurt, fresh fruits, and a touch of honey.
Barrel 21’s brunch menu is not complete without its stellar lineup of cocktails and libations. Indulge in the refreshing Mimosa Flight, featuring a variety of freshly squeezed juices, or sip on the Barrel-Aged Bloody Mary, a bold and flavorful concoction made with their own house-infused vodka and a proprietary blend of spices.
What truly sets Barrel 21’s brunch apart is the creativity and variety on display. From the Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast to the Stuffed French Toast with seasonal fruit compote, each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that every guest can savor the delectable brunch experience.
Lunch Menu Highlights
Barrel 21’s lunch menu is a celebration of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients crafted into delectable dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Start your culinary journey with a selection of appetizers and shareables that are perfect for whetting the appetite or enjoying with friends over a handcrafted cocktail.
The Warm Pretzel Bites are a must-try, served with a creamy beer cheese dip that will leave you craving for more. For those seeking a lighter option, the Roasted Beet Salad is a vibrant and flavorful choice, featuring tender beets, candied walnuts, and a tangy goat cheese vinaigrette.
Indulge in one of Barrel 21’s signature Craft Sandwiches, where each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The Smoked Brisket Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, with tender, slow-smoked brisket, tangy barbecue sauce, and crispy onion straws nestled between a soft brioche bun. Vegetarians will delight in the Roasted Portobello Sandwich, a hearty and satisfying option with grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and a zesty pesto aioli.
For those craving a comforting bowl of soup, Barrel 21 offers a rotating selection of seasonal soups, each crafted with care and bursting with flavor. Complement your soup with a fresh salad, such as the Barrel 21 House Salad, featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy house-made vinaigrette.
Dinner Menu Delights
At Barrel 21 Distillery & Dining, the dinner menu is a culinary journey that celebrates locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors. The main dishes and entrees are a testament to the chef’s creativity and expertise, offering a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate.
For those seeking a heartier fare, the Simply Prepared section features dishes that showcase the natural flavors of the ingredients. The Pan-Seared Salmon, for instance, is a delightful combination of fresh fish, locally-grown vegetables, and a tantalizing lemon-dill sauce. The Grilled Ribeye Steak, another crowd favorite, is a perfectly cooked cut of beef accompanied by roasted fingerling potatoes and a rich red wine demi-glace.
Vegetarians and vegans will delight in the innovative plant-based options available. The Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowl is a colorful and nutrient-packed dish, featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty tahini dressing. The Mushroom and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty option, with a savory filling of mushrooms, lentils, and vegetables, topped with a creamy mashed potato crust.
For those seeking a unique dining experience, the Barrel 21 Specialties section offers a range of creative and flavorful dishes. The Smoked Brisket Tacos are a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender smoked brisket, fresh pico de gallo, and a tangy lime crema, all nestled in warm corn tortillas. The Pork Belly Ramen is a bowl of comfort, with rich broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and succulent pork belly, topped with a soft-boiled egg and fresh scallions.
No matter your preference, the dinner menu at Barrel 21 Distillery & Dining promises a memorable culinary experience, showcasing the best of locally-sourced ingredients and the chef’s innovative approach to flavor combinations.
Indulgent Desserts
Barrel 21’s dessert menu is a true celebration of homemade indulgence and creativity. Crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, each dessert offering is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Decadence is a must-try. This rich and velvety chocolate cake is adorned with a silky ganache and served with a side of fresh berries, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
If you’re a fan of classic desserts with a twist, the Crème Brûlée is sure to delight. Barrel 21’s version features a creamy vanilla custard base infused with a hint of bourbon, topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust that yields a satisfying crack with each spoonful.
For those seeking a lighter option, the Seasonal Fruit Crisp is a refreshing choice. Featuring a rotating selection of fresh, locally-sourced fruits, this dessert is topped with a buttery oat crumble and served with a scoop of house-made ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
No dessert menu would be complete without a decadent cheesecake offering, and Barrel 21 does not disappoint. The Barrel-Aged Cheesecake is a unique creation, infused with the smoky notes of barrel-aged spirits, creating a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the rich, creamy texture.
With each dessert meticulously crafted and presented with artistry, Barrel 21’s dessert menu is a testament to their commitment to quality and attention to detail. Whether you’re indulging in a post-meal treat or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these desserts are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion
Barrel 21 Distillery & Dining offers a truly unique culinary experience in the heart of State College, PA. From the meticulously crafted cocktails to the seasonally-inspired dishes, each menu item is a testament to the dedication and creativity of the talented team behind the scenes.
The commitment to locally-sourcing ingredients and embracing the flavors of each season sets Barrel 21 apart, ensuring that every visit is a fresh and memorable experience. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely brunch, a casual lunch, or an indulgent dinner, the diverse menu caters to every palate and dietary preference.
Beyond the exceptional cuisine, Barrel 21 provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for special occasions, gatherings with friends and family, or simply a night out to savor the flavors of the region.
Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind dining experience. Visit Barrel 21 Distillery & Dining today and make your reservation to embark on a culinary journey like no other. For those seeking a truly memorable event, inquire about their private dining options and custom menus, tailored to your unique preferences.