Oak Barrel Cafe — Restaurant in Maryland

Pleasantly surprised by the food offered at this "side of the road gas station". They make fresh sandwiches and wraps that are amazingly tasty, with the best lunch meat I've ever had (I've never eaten a turkey sandwich and not needed anything on it, but that's how good their meat is!) They offer an array of salads, gourmet sides, as well as homemade slices of pie (HUGE slices), packaged individually, and they have all kinds of homemade candies and sweets. There's a restaurant and ice cream parlor on site, as well. This also happens to be the last gas station/food for the next 30 miles if you are heading west, no matter the time of day. If going East it's the only food that's a quick stop/right off of the freeway til Clear Spring (which is 40 miles) and the only 24 hour food/gas til Hagerstown (other than Sheetz in Hancock, MD).

I would've given them 5 stars had it not been for the cashier... (You can read about that interaction below, if you care to...). So unfortunate when a good place loses customers bc of one person's attitude.

Last time I went there I used the restroom, which I could tell he was about to mop. There was a mess on the seat from a previous customer so I took a minute to get a paper towel wet and soapy and wipe the seat off etc. It literally took 2 minutes, not a big deal. While finally using the facilities I was startled by the cashier banging LOUDLY on the door and yelling something incoherent. I finished up, quickly washed my hands, and walked out. I grabbed a sandwich and headed up to the counter, and before I could even say an entire sentence (I got as far as "Hi! How are you toni-" ) the cashier barked "about time you're done! I was trying to clean in there but couldn't because of YOU!" I was taken aback a bit by his tone and attitude, and confused bc it was late at night, not busy at all, but he was clearly in a big rush. After I checked out he ran in to clean the bathroom and was done within 2-3 minutes, after which he went outside to a car with a woman in the driver's seat, and got in. I stayed there for 20 minutes eating some of my sandwich and putting gas in my car. He didn't have a customer in that time and remained in the car chatting with the woman. I assume that was his girlfriend/wife and he wanted to see her for a while. I get that, but to be so nasty and rude to a customer (a regular one, at that) because it took them 3-4 minutes in the bathroom... Kind of ridiculous. I haven't been back since and that's a shame, because I really enjoyed this store. It also happens to be the last gas station/food for the next 30 miles if you are heading west, so now I have to make sure I have plenty of gas before passing Hancock since I no longer feel comfortable...

What a gem of a gas station/deli/mini grocery/sit down restaurant! Absolutely adorable. Fabulously friendly staff and cute antique/vintage type atmosphere. Had dinner here with my guy and another couple. They no longer offer beer on tap or drinks per say, but the store area does have beer, wine, and alcohol available for purchase. The beer is cold, but the wine was not refrigerated. My guy purchased a bottle of wine and the price wasn't too horribly inflated as it can be at many restaurants. The waitress even brought us wine glasses and a cork screw. Our party ordered... The Ruben sandwich, a French dip Sammy with cold slaw... The Beefster Sammy and the pulled pork Sammy. My guy commented that the cold slaw was the best he'd ever had. The lady eating the Ruben said her Ruben was the best she ever had. The man who ordered the pulled pork was extremely satisfied with the pulled pork, and I found the Beefster Sammy quite nice, but not warm enough for my liking. Still a great value at 7.95 per sandwich. The couple we were with we enjoy the company of very much, so the 30-45 minute wait for said sandwiches went by without any complaining on our part. I will say, however, that that long of a wait for sandwiches is really not acceptable. I am not sure if our order was lost for a time or what, and as I stated we were enjoying the company so much that we over looked it. I will mention that the couple we were with said that the long wait times were one of the reasons they no longer go the this restaurant regularly as they used to. They were also disappointed that there was no longer beer on tap or ice cream. They also stated that food values used to be better. All in all, a must try out and visit, unless you are in a really big hurry... In which case maybe try their deli counter... It may or may not be faster. Would give this place a 5 star except for the wait time, and the lack of warmth of my...

The Oak Barrel Cafe: A Hidden Gem Defying Expectations

Don't let its unassuming location fool you. Nestled beside a gas station, the Oak Barrel Cafe is a culinary haven waiting to be discovered. Stepping inside, you're transported to a bygone era, where classic charm and warm hospitality reign supreme. The old-timey feel, with its rich wood accents and cozy lighting, creates an inviting ambiance that instantly puts you at ease.

While the menu boasts a decent selection of dishes to satisfy any craving, the surf and turf burger is the undisputed star. A harmonious blend of land and sea, this culinary masterpiece features a juicy beef patty topped with succulent shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

But the Oak Barrel Cafe doesn't stop at savory delights. Their dessert selection is a testament to their commitment to providing a complete dining experience. From decadent cakes to creamy cheesecakes, each dessert is a sweet ending to a memorable meal.

Despite its humble exterior, the Oak Barrel Cafe is a true gem that deserves recognition. The combination of delicious food, charming atmosphere, and exceptional service makes it a must-visit destination. So, the next time you're passing by, don't hesitate to step inside and discover the hidden treasure that awaits. The Oak Barrel Cafe is proof that extraordinary experiences can be found in the most...