The Barrel House Bar & Grill — Restaurant in Winnsboro

Our family of four went out to eat around 8:00pm, and we only had to wait 5 minutes tops to be seated. Will was our server, he was extraordinarily kind and outgoing! He would check in on us whenever he was going back and forth between tables, making sure everything was alright and asking if we needed any refills. He actually helped me pick out my entrée, and later made sure I was enjoying it (thank you Will, I loved the snapper! 😄) We got the ahi tuna as an appetizer, and it was cooked to perfection! For dinner two members of our group got the salmon, I got the red snapper, and the last person got chips and queso. The chips are made in-house and were very good. All of our fish was magnificent, and the sauce on my snapper took it to the next level. The cajun rice was some of the best 'cajun' stuff I've had since I left Louisiana, not over or under-seasoned, the flavor was well-balanced, and it was still spicy but not overly so. The atmosphere was nice, lively but not loud. There are a few TVs spread out around the room, and the volume was not distracting or annoying. After other patrons left their tables were quickly cleaned off and sanitized, so you don't have to worry about having a sticky or crumby table. All in all, I (and the other members of our group) really enjoyed our experience, and I can definitely see myself going back to try out more...

First, the positive - the service was quick, attentive, and friendly. We enjoyed the queso we ordered as an appetizer, and my chicken salad sandwich was tasty and on fresh homemade bread. My boyfriend enjoyed his cajun chicken alfredo, which was also served with homemade bread. So overall, we were pleased with the food and service. However, I have dropped my rating to two stars due to the lack of proper COVID protocol. A sign at the door states that masks are required, but several patrons were allowed in without a mask. Servers and hostesses were wearing masks. However, our table had a clear view into the kitchen through a glass wall, and none of the kitchen staff were wearing masks while prepping food. The governor's executive order states that all Texans must wear a mask and Texas restaurant guidelines state, "all employees and customers must wear a face covering (over the nose and mouth) wherever it is not feasible to maintain six feet of social distancing from another individual not in the same household, except when seated at the restaurant to eat or drink." Had I noticed the lack of proper protocol before receiving our food, I would not have stayed at this restaurant due to health concerns. Until The Barrel House starts following state guidelines, I would not patronize...

We went for the prime rib special (on Friday and Valentines Day), and as always, the place was packed. Everyone there who was working was running. We only had to wait a quarter hour for our table.

Our waitress greeted and took our order almost as fast as we got seated because we knew what we wanted before we got there. Our drinks were there before we finished looking over the barn like decor.

Our meals were there about ten minutes later. The rare prime rib was a bit browner than usual this time. But you could cut it with a fork and let it melt in your mouth. The ahju was earthy and salty like it should be. The horseradish sauce added the right taste bud burn that I crave.

The portions were large enough that we had to go boxes for dinner the next day and for the traditional cheesecake (which included both toppings). My wife likes the topping while I like it without. I did taste the raspberry and it was amazing.

If I had to complain, I would prefer fresh horseradish. When you go, try the fried pork rine appetizer. Fresh and crispy with salt that is unlike any packaged snack you ever had.

This was not our first visit. Be assured it will not...