Barrington Brewery & Restaurant / Berkshire Mountain Brewery

Barrington Brewery & Restaurant / Berkshire Mountain BreweryBarrington Brewery & Restaurant / Berkshire Mountain Brewery
Barrington Brewery & Restaurant / Berkshire Mountain BreweryBarrington Brewery & Restaurant / Berkshire Mountain Brewery
Brewery, Eatery

420 Stockbridge Road
Great Barrington, Massachusetts, 01230
United States

(413) 528-8282 | map
barringtonbrewery.net

AKA - Berkshire Mountain Brewers
BEER STATS
Average:
3.66
Beers:
28
Ratings:
348
PLACE STATS
Average:
3.82
Reviews:
49
Ratings:
69
pDev:
11.52%
View: Beers | Place Reviews
Recent ratings and reviews. | Log in to view more ratings + sorting options.
Ratings by jbertsch:
Photo of jbertsch
Reviewed by jbertsch from Massachusetts

2.83/5  rDev -25.9%
vibe: 2.5 | quality: 3 | service: 3 | selection: 2.5 | food: 3
Stopped in a couple months back. I read nice reviews of this place so I had high hopes but ultimately was let down.

Fitting for the country setting and the style of food offered, the restaurant reminds you of an old barn or come-as-you-are country steakhouse. Unsurprisingly, the interior is kitschy. The place needs a makeover. It appears rundown and not in a cute, rustic, or other intentional way. The layout is simply weird. I remember feeling off about walking into an area that quickly turned into the server’s station.

Quick, attentive service is normally a positive. But our service here was so much so that we quickly felt an enjoyable leisurely dinner was not in the cards. Our server was so attentive we felt rushed.

The BBQ food was mediocre. Nothing was wrong, but nothing was worth a return visit. I don’t like that fries cost extra at a pub like this.

The beer was no better. I tried their brown ale, pale ale, and a stout. All three had a noticeably slick and thin mouthfeel I found deterring. As for flavor, the brown ale and pale ale both tasted ok, nothing great. The stout actually smelled very nice but then let me down on flavor, in addition to its poor mouthfeel.

Neither my wife or I were pleased with our experience. We like to visit Tanglewood once a summer and we finally got around to trying this place, but now we know to not go back. More for you all I suppose.
Nov 05, 2013
More User Ratings:
 
Rated: 3.85 by Gkruszewski from New York

Jun 16, 2023
 
Rated: 4.25 by atlbravsrno1 from Maine

Jun 09, 2023
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Reviewed by erosier from Connecticut

4/5  rDev +4.7%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4
Great spot up near the AT trail in Great Barrington, MA. The place has a large solar field that is used to power the place, The beers were great, the stout, brown, and Scottish ales were excellent. Not an enormous selection but very good with something for everyone who's going to have a beer. The staff is great, very quick and courteous. The food was excellent, not too large portions, great fresh taste and feel. The vibe was interesting but I suppose that depends on when you go. We got there when a lot of people were hiking the AT trail and stopped for a bite. Overall, excellent spot and worth the stop if you're in the area.
Aug 27, 2021
 
Rated: 2.96 by zotzot from Vermont

Aug 09, 2021
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Reviewed by DD420 from Massachusetts

3.34/5  rDev -12.6%
vibe: 3.75 | quality: 3.5 | service: 3 | selection: 3.25 | food: 3.5
Beer was good, I didn’t take anything to go. A bit turned off by their 3.5% surcharge if CC or debit is used, especially not being told before hand or explained About it at all. My personal bad experience, may not bother anyone else, but annoyed me to no end.
Oct 21, 2020
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Reviewed by GratefulBeerGuy from New Hampshire

4.09/5  rDev +7.1%
vibe: 4.25 | quality: 4 | service: 4.5 | selection: 3.75 | food: 4
Farm style solar powered brews. Very old school style, farmhouse style pub and restaurant. Eclectic atmosphere, lots if old stuff, antiques and memorabilia to ponder. This was a must needed stop in our 300 mile West to East drive on the route 20 byway.
Sep 14, 2019
 
Rated: 3.9 by Griffith from Connecticut

Mar 18, 2019
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Reviewed by Lone_Freighter from Vermont

4/5  rDev +4.7%
vibe: 3.75 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4.25
Accidentally stumbled along this place as I missed my turn to get on Rt 87 in New York and go see my parents in PA, in turn I had to go back since I liked it the first time I was in here. Both times, great vibe - well kept bar area, music wasn't too loud, nice level of chatter by all who were in there. Bartenders both times seemed to know his New England beers very well. First time, the guy I was sitting next was related to someone who played for the Boston Bruins, of course, now I forget the name, but anyways, good quality food and beers, a bit leaning towards the English wheelhouse but I didn't mind that. Though both times I was in here, I was in early on in the week - so service to me was pretty good. They seemed to know how to keep up with the crowds. Selection was only their beers. Pretty glad my mistake of missing Rt 87 brought me here, I'd go back.
Oct 13, 2017
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Reviewed by CTHomer from Connecticut

3.45/5  rDev -9.7%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 3.5 | selection: 3.5 | food: 3
kind of run down; clientele seemed to be locals who were there because it is a place to go versus people being there because the food and beer are great; Service was pleasant, but the waitress didn't know much about beer; not a lot of beer options; food menu is large; food flavor was underwhelming;
Aug 24, 2017
 
Rated: 4.09 by Ecxeeder616 from Massachusetts

May 12, 2017
 
Rated: 3.44 by xtonytx from Connecticut

Feb 28, 2017
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Reviewed by Kinger22 from Virginia

4.19/5  rDev +9.7%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4 | service: 3.75 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4.75
I liked the rustic atmosphere, which goes well with the fact that these beers are all brewed with solar power. The beers were tasty, but the food was even better. I really enjoyed the free range chicken. Definitely good vibes at this place.
May 15, 2016
 
Rated: 3.89 by smi69 from New York

Jan 27, 2016
 
Rated: 3.63 by WillieThreebiers from Connecticut

Aug 09, 2015
 
Rated: 3.83 by LXIXME from New Mexico

Jun 21, 2015
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Reviewed by orcrist_cleaver from New York

3.81/5  rDev -0.3%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.75 | service: 3.75 | selection: 4 | food: 4
On my way up from Mt. Frissell to Tree House I chanced upon this solar powered brewery. Entering there is no bar in sight, but it is tucked around the corner. That area has a pub like feel while the main eating area has a country kitchen decor. Seemed like most people at bar were regulars who had own mugs. The other patrons seemed to be mostly locals as well.
I was ravished after my hike and would have eaten most anything. I had the smoked salmon blt for $11. Plenty of salmon and the bacon was thick cut with a good cracked pepper seasoning. Good value and tasty. The beers were run of the mill. A taster of 5 beers for $5 also provides good value. They had about double that on tap and a wide selection of styles. I had the blonde, ipa, dortmunder, cask scotch, and altbier. Faves were the German lagers and blonde. Not a huge fan of the ipa which seemed to lack bitterness. The cask scotch had a metallic aftertaste.
Jun 14, 2015
Photo of Himself
Reviewed by Himself from Massachusetts

3.03/5  rDev -20.7%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3 | service: 3 | selection: 3 | food: 2.75
There's nothing really special to say about the Barrington Brewery. The beer is passable at best, the food is atrocious and the service is lackluster.
Jun 04, 2015
 
Rated: 3.7 by tgates from Minnesota

Mar 30, 2015
 
Rated: 4.13 by Dicers from California

Mar 15, 2015
 
Rated: 4 by dhmxray from New York

Oct 28, 2014
 
Rated: 3.5 by Resuin from Massachusetts

Oct 25, 2014
 
Rated: 4.16 by psdriscoll from Connecticut

Aug 13, 2014
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Reviewed by Wally_Dad from Virginia

3.61/5  rDev -5.5%
vibe: 4 | quality: 3.75 | service: 3 | selection: 3.75 | food: 4
Unexpected gem in the middle of . . .well, Berkshire County. We had lunch outside on a beautiful day. The IPA was my choice and it was very good. A bit of an English style with more malt than hops. Food was very good and fresh. Service was a bit slow and not the best, but we weren't in a hurry. Very nice rustic atmosphere.
Jun 16, 2014
 
Rated: 3.75 by MattXT from Virginia

Apr 01, 2014
 
Rated: 4 by grahuba from Connecticut

Mar 28, 2014
 
Rated: 3.75 by ELECTRONICAnonymous from Massachusetts

Feb 24, 2014
 
Rated: 4.5 by civicm87 from New York

Feb 03, 2014
 
Rated: 3.75 by JayO from Massachusetts

Dec 19, 2013
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Reviewed by rorjets from Connecticut

4.5/5  rDev +17.8%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4.5 | service: 4.5 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4.5
Stopped in for a late lunch on a pleasant summer day, and had the perfect combination of great food & beer.

We first enjoyed two flights of five 3 oz beers for $5 each outside on the patio. Our server, who was excellent, also offered a sample of the English style Ale to us in addition to our flights. Our table of three ordered a special of Cajun style Cod in a wrap with fries; also the Cheddar Ale Soup, a Corned Beef Sandwich, and a Smoked Salmon BLT. Everyone loved the food and the beer. All the beers were delicious, but we chose the Raspberry Ale (cajun cod), Mankin's Organic English Style Ale (BLT) and the Bavarian Wheat (corned beef) to go with our meal.

Loved the ambience outside; the patio is tucked into a courtyard off the street, which keeps it removed from the traffic noises. Afterward we went inside and took a look at the bar (covered in coasters, which I really enjoyed while searching for favorites) and the brewing equipment. We also got to meet the owner, Andrew Mankin, who was brewing at the moment (forgot to ask what!). After chatting for a few minutes he had to get back to work, and we were on our way, fully satisfied in all respects!
Aug 01, 2013
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Reviewed by puboflyons from New Hampshire

4.11/5  rDev +7.6%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 3.75 | service: 4.25 | selection: 4 | food: 4.75
This is a brewpub located in an old barn in Western Massachusetts's artistic and cultural center. I loved the decor with the rustic, wooden surroundings and coasters from all over the world stuck on the wall. You can see a section on the second floor with a couple barrels and piles of malts ready to be added to the latest brew. On tap they had about 9 in-housed brewed beers and you can buy a 5-glass sampler pack. The beers were average to above average depending on the style. The service was friendly and the waitress knowledgeable. The food was decent pub fair and quite likable. If I was to get over to that part of the state again I would definitely make another visit.
Jul 29, 2013
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Reviewed by mltobin from Connecticut

3.64/5  rDev -4.7%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5
Just north of the main drag of Great Barrington is this brewpub. It has been open for some time and with that in mind, it has a lived in and comfortable feel to it. With a staff that is generally helpful. They have quite a few different selections from a Bavarian Wheat to the Barrington Brown and then at the holidays, their Yule Fuel. Most of the beers are above average, but not exceptional. Nonetheless, they are very satisfying and if you find yourself passing through, pop into this Western Mass establishment.
Sep 23, 2011
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Reviewed by smcolw from Massachusetts

3.68/5  rDev -3.7%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
The Barrington Brewery is located at a quaint New Englandy strip mall off the main road in Great Barrington, MA. The restaurant reminds me of a quintessential mom & pop family eatery. Indeed the patrons were all across the spectrum: old, young, college kids, Europeans, parents, etc.

During the day sandwiches are the fare. I had a sampler of authentic German sausages. They were excellent. The wings were odd because they were dry (but still spicy).

The beers were pretty run-of-the-mill except for the stout which I thought was quite good. The rule of thumb for me was the darker the beer the better the score.

The prices were reasonable, particularly the beer.

Worth a stop if you are in the area.
Aug 14, 2011
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Reviewed by Sam21 from Connecticut

4/5  rDev +4.7%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4
I have been to the Barrington Brewery several times since moving to CT. In addition, I have had their beer on-tap at several different restaurants and bars.

Upon walking in, you are greeted by a dimly lit tavern-style room with a combination of tables and booths. The staff is very friendly and takes your name promptly if there is a wait, or shows you straight to a table. You are always more than welcome to go straight to the bar and grab a beer while you wait. In some cases, you can grab a table by the bar while you wait. The bar area is comfortable and does not feel like a typical overcrowded watering hole even at prime-time on Saturday nights. A great pub vibe.

The service is great. Always friendly and eager to please.

Onto the beer. Solid. Their pale ale is a standard and sturdy beer with some great juicy hop notes and balancing malt sweetness. The IPA is much more bold, but remains balanced. Both are beers that one could settle with for an evening. The brown ale is great. Sweet, roasty, and drinkable. The stout is full bodied, rich, and sweet. Wonderful roasted character, although the body can feel a bit slick. The blonde is simple, full-flavored, and smooth. One of those beers for the warmer months, or to get one's appetite going. Their seasonal selection, as far as I have experienced, has also been good. The staff is always willing to give you a sample, so ask if you are interested!

The food is also solid. I have yet to be disappointed.

Overall, Barrington Brewery & Restaurant is a great place to stop for a couple pints and some solid grub. Whether you are looking for a quiet afternoon, or a lively dinner with friends and family, the Barrington Brewery can accommodate. Always a friendly and comfortable experience.
Mar 13, 2011
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Reviewed by JordonHoltzman from New York

4.05/5  rDev +6%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4.5
I came here with 4 of my buddies. we drove up a few hours from long island NY for a ski trip and once we got to barrington we found this place. we got very lucky that we came across this place.
the food was great. we split a pitcher of their hopland pale ale which was fantastic, and had many pub fare appetizers and we all enjoyed our main courses too. even their chocolate cake was an excellent dessert. service was good also. we all really had a great dinner there. will 100% go back if I'm ever in the area.
Jan 07, 2011
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Reviewed by Barsies from Massachusetts

3.25/5  rDev -14.9%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 2.5 | service: 4 | selection: 3 | food: 4
I have tried the Barrington Brewery & Restaurant on two separate occassions - both times I ate in the bar area. The atmosphere is very relaxed, the staff friendly, the food good, and the beer somewhat disappointing.

On my first visit I tried the Yule Fuel, their winter beer (Lager? Ale? Don't remember). It lacked the flavor, fulness, or complexity I've come to expect from winter brews.

I also have tried the Hopland Pale Ale as well as the Barrington Brown. Both were more to my liking but there still seemed to be something missing. Neither had much depth.

Although my experiences have been middle of the road I'm still willing to give the Barrington Brewery another chance.
Oct 02, 2010
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Reviewed by jatotter from Rhode Island

3.05/5  rDev -20.2%
vibe: 4 | quality: 3 | service: 2 | selection: 4 | food: 2.5
This was one of those visits that wasn't bad but it wasn't good either.
First, the beer was good. I started with a sampler but was disappointed that out of 6 or 7 regular beers and 3 seasonals I got 5 and only 1 seasonal choice of my own. My tastes run towards the darker side and even craft made lights do nothing for me. But, the quality was good.
Second, the food was very average. Perhaps I'm just getting fussier in my tastes but why does pub grub have to emphasize the grub? Too much frozen, pre-made food. I don't recall one item that included any cooking with their beer. Onion rings that were touted as really good came out as a fried glop that needed prying apart with utensils. Dishes just didn't quite live up their billing. Is that price one pays when the kitchen needs to cut costs and displays poor prep technique?
Third, service was awful. We ate out on the patio. Our servers spent more time yuckin' up with their friends than doing their job. Our server may have already been into the beer.

I don't expect ultra high end food or service at this kind of place. But I do expect value (and not in quantity) and service of the "service as you'd like to be served" variety.

And the cake someone mentioned in another review - recipe is available from Bon Appetit (Chocolate Stout Cake) and it's wonderful!
Cheers
Jun 24, 2010
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Reviewed by albern from Massachusetts

3.88/5  rDev +1.6%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
This is a nice place conveniently located in GB. The food is good. I had the vegetarian chili and a salad. Others I was with really liked the cheddar soup, the Tomato blue cheese soup, and all of the various dinners ordered. No complaints. The desserts were huge. There is a triple layer cake that is ridiculous and can feed three people with one healthy slab cut off. I had the ice cream brownie and that was huge as well.

As for the beer, I had the Hopland Pale, the Steam, the Glen Ice IPA, the Barrington Brown, and the Black Bear Stout. I will review the stout separately and this was the best one I had. I bought 22oz to go and you purchase these at the bar. The place is spacious and the bar does have the smell of malts. I will review the stout separately and the three take home bottles as I sample them.
Apr 19, 2010
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Reviewed by donniecuffs from New Jersey

3.48/5  rDev -8.9%
vibe: 4 | quality: 3 | service: 4.5 | selection: 3 | food: 3
This place had a nice warm home-y feel to it, packed to the gills with townies. The restored barn-feel certainly adds to it as well. The quality of the beers sampled was about average, but my biggest complaint was that there weren't many on tap. Maybe I hit them in between batches. Anyway, the service was super-polite and knowledgeable about their beer. The food was standard burger/diner -type fare, but nicely easy on the wallet. I'd go back in the hopes of being able to sample more than just four of their beers.
Sep 25, 2009
Barrington Brewery & Restaurant / Berkshire Mountain Brewery in Great Barrington, MA
Brewery rating: 3.66 out of 5 with 348 ratings