Sunday 28th of July 2013 03:56:19 AM

link
The Barley Oak is a tall, two-story brick building located on the scenic north shore of Lake Pontchatrain. Parking is free along the street. There are a few picnic tables under the building, whose lower level is open in case of storm surge. There is a black staircase up to the main second floor. The upstairs patio has a beautiful vista overlooking the huge brackish lake. Inside there are couches, several wooden dining tables, and their 9 chair copper topped wooden bar. The small lounge area has a fireplace, paisley wall paper, and decorative fans overhead. The floors are wooden, and the decor is upscale with earth tone colors. The place has a professional yet relaxed and warm atmosphere, and is a popular happy hour hotspot. The limited food menu has salads, sandwiches, and appetizers. The service is adequate. Behind the bar are 47 taps of craft beer, a great mix of regional national and imported excellence. They also have an exquisite selection of about 100 variety in bottles. Great place to find some new beer.

Monday 13th of September 2010 06:59:00 PM

link
Barley Oak sits across the street from Lake Ponchatrain. The building itself was erected in 2008 specifically to house this beerbar.

The perimeter of the property is surrounded by an ornate iron fence. The lower level and courtyard are used mainly for special events, like the upcoming Oktoberfest celebration. The courtyard feature arched entryways, ornate gas lamps, tables and well manicured landscaping.

The main bar area is located on the second floor which is accessible using either the cast iron stairs or the elevator. The stairs lead up to the deck which overlooks Lake Ponchatrain and the Causeway. A continuous flow of joggers, dog walkers and bicyclists stream by. Spanish moss clings to the nearby trees.

The main bar room features a large wooden bar with a copper top. Exposed wooden beams support the roof and the ceiling also copper. There are HD TVs throughout the bar all of which were turned down. The music here was classic rock.

Currently there are 47 taps and +100 bottles to choose from. The selection of micro, craft and imports was fairly impressive. I was able to have Jefferson Stout on nitro tap, which was a real treat. Draft beers are available by the glass or by the pitcher.

On this visit there was steady flow of customers many of who had been out walking along the lake shore. The outdoor seating area gives you a fantastic view of the lake and causeway. The deck features HD TVs, ceiling fans, seating along the perimeter, tables and a nice sound system.

There is no wait staff here. If you want a beer you go to the bar. The same applies to food, you place your order with the bartender and are given a coaster that will light up and vibrate when your food is ready. Then you pick it up at the end of the bar. I thought this was a little unusual but it does work.

On this visit I ordered the hot Cajun sausage sandwich which was served on a toasted Kaiser roll. On the side I had their unique version of potato salad which came with a sprinkling of Cajun seasoning. I thought the food was very nicely done.

Since I arrived when they opened at 11:00am I was not able to enjoy the sunset that draws many locals and visitors to this establishment. This is a place that I really would like to visit again and see their continuing growth.

RUMOR: has it that a new brewery is planned adjacent to the Barley Oak. If the brewery comes through I would expect great things from them. I will have to check back.