Barkeep’s Eatery & Taps — Restaurant in Nacogdoches

Barkeep’s Eatery & Taps

My friend and neighbor and I attempt to meet for lunch this week had us trying out a restaurant neither of us have dined in the past. Our selection was Barkeep’s.

We were pleased in many ways as to food, service, and menu diversity. Dining area is large and lots of room for social distance rules. Parking is abundant and easy.

Menu is diverse and allows for gluten free and vegetarian selections. Large beer selection if that is your drink. Service is attentive and very patient with a new diner’s numerous questions. Iced tea was refilled with no problem and before needed.

We decided to start with the Egg Rolls. You have a choice of Chicken or Vegetables and they are served with tasty sauces. One is a zesty Orange and the other is a sweet Chili one that has a slight kick.

We both agreed the Egg Rolls were one of the best we have enjoyed over the years.

Thai Basil Fried Rice is served in a large portion even for lunch. Chicken was added today but you can also add beef, shrimp, or tofu for an additional charge. My lunch partner enjoyed the choice but could not finish the dish because of the size.

My selection was the Chicken Curry. As to spice you have a decision as to One to Three with three being the more spicy. Of course I ordered number Three. The Curry was tasty and good with a slight kick but nothing too hot for this New Orleans boy. It consist of Indian infused chicken with onions, garlic, tomato, and in house spice. Paired with rice and Naan which was very nice.

Our first time visit was very enjoyable and this is a restaurant we would be happy to return to...

Sad disappointment. This is probably one of my favorite places to eat in Nac, I have been here plenty of times before for lunch but today I made to terrible decision to go on a Friday night for dinner. Trying to introduce the place to my cousin, it was nothing my terrible. The music was so loud, we had to yell over the table and to even our server. I understand it is a Friday night but could've been a bit more considerate when asked to lower the music a bit (not asking to turn it off). Food is always delicious and timing is always good with delivery. One irking thing is the service, it's like the staff is always hiding when you need them (or just understaffed). I always have to ask another server for the check or to go boxes. This time my server decided to take a seat with whom I assumed were their friends in a booth without bothering to watch their tables. They sat for a good five minutes before they walked to the back then out to picked up the ticket when I caught their attention so I can pay (mind you I had to ask another server for the ticket). Pay a lot more focus to the guests; try to make the environment comfortable for everyone (including those of disability). Sad to say I don't plan on having dinner there anytime soon if this is going to be...

If you're considering dining here, I recommend calling ahead to ensure they are taking food orders. The food is unique and delicious with an authentic taste- IF you can actually order. Poor service and limited availability are what keep us from coming as often as we used to. More than 5/less than 10 times in the PAST YEAR, we have tried to come here for dinner (before 9pm) just to be told the kitchen or entire restaurant is closed. It has happened many times over the lifetime of us visiting this restaurant. And the manner that we are informed is often passive and rude, as if we are the problem, if we are informed at all. We have wandered around in the past waiting to be seated, while the bar is filled, before someone informs us the kitchen has closed early "because it was slow." It would be essier to put a sign on the door honestly. If you want good food in town, call ahead, and do not expect much else. Although Hayden, Caleb, and Justin are great at what they do and I hope they stick around for a while! When Justin works as a Host, he is always the most friendly and accommodating, no matter the stress...