Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/532845
94 | AUGUST 2015 nshoremag.com DRINK Barrel House American Bar photograph by Anthony Tieuli BAR BARREL HOUSE AMERICAN BAR The Barrel House raised the bar on cocktails on the North Shore, and it's no surprise they've stayed at the top of their game with a top-notch bar program that continues to delight regulars and new- comers alike. True to its name, Barrel House has several barrel-aged cocktails (try them, trust us) and a mighty impres- sive whiskey list. Expect to find expertly balanced classics like the gin-based Avia- tion and rum-heavy Painkiller, as well as house creations that show off freshly made syrups, bitters, and infusions. Local distillers are well represented, so it's an excellent place to try Ipswich's Priva- teer rum or Gloucester's Ryan & Wood rye whiskey. An assortment of vintage cocktail glasses adds a nice touch, and expert bartenders are only too happy to share a taste of their latest concoction or recommend an esoteric beer from their curated list. Barrel House remains a shining star so raise a glass to their continued (whiskey) smashing success. 252 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-998-4627, barrelhousebeverly.com R E A D E R S' C H O I C E B A R R E L H O U S E A M E R I C A N B A R "I recently had the privilege of attend- ing a cocktail event at the Barrel House, and I was more than impressed. The food was absolutely incredible. I have not had the opportunity to try the full menu, but after telling my wife about their throw- back Thursdays, I'm sure it won't be long before we are dining there a couple times a month. The staff is outstanding! You can tell everyone loves their job and the peo- ple they serve. The executive chef, Dan Pagano, takes amazing pride in his work, and you can taste it in every bite. And as for the bar... in the words of Samuel L. Jackson...'Hold on to your butts.' This inventive bar staff shakes up some of the best cocktails in the area. But don't take my word for it. Try it out, and I'm sure you'll be back for seconds." –P.G.