Unlike any other restaurant in Northern Michigan, Barrel Back on Walloon Lake offers guests a unique “open-air” dining experience. The restaurant is named after “Barrel Back” boats commonly found on inland lakes in the 1920s, 30s, and 40s. The outside of the restaurant is completely surrounded by glass garage doors, which can be opened up on a beautiful Northern Michigan day. The atmosphere inside the restaurant is modern and tasteful. Offering an expansive bar that features over 23 beers on tap and a patio for guests wishing to dine outdoors, the Barrel Back is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Airy, contemporary restaurant & bar featuring a New American menu & views of Walloon Lake.
Love2 Wander
We enjoyed sitting outside as it was a beautiful day. The pork taco was delicious. The tortilla queso salsa description didn’t match what we thought we were getting. There were three containers which one was with cheese. The wording should be more clear. There were not enough tortilla chips, and when we asked for a few more, out waiter said the kitchen wouldn’t do that and didn’t even ask. We were not checked on after receiving our two appetizers, only when we were done to collect the plates. We would consider going here again, only because we like the atmosphere and the food.
The service we highly disappointing, especially when it wasn’t busy.
… moreLindsay Benjamin
This place is a must visit! We went twice during our visit of 3 days . The service was wonderful, the food was delicious, the views were absolutely BEAUTIFUL! 10/10 will be back.
… moreDaVideo & Photography
Upper-scale restaurant overlooking Walloon Lake – upbeat atmosphere for a trendy crowd.
Popular for parties, receptions, and other events. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
The restaurant is on the second floor, so you’ll need to take the stairs, or the elevator for access.
I liked the brisket sandwich; good-sized portion and comes with chips. You can upgrade to fries or a seasonal vegetable if you prefer.
Service was rather slow during the visit of this review as there was a wedding party going on at the same time. Took over an hour to get three sandwiches, with no discount for the wait. Still had a good time anyway as we were not in a hurry.
There is handicapped parking. You’ll need to enter the retail store on the first floor to get to the entrance.
… moreKimberly Doman
Loved this place! Such a cool vibe. The outdoor bar is definitely a spot to hit up. Very cool! Also the inside restaurant overlooks the lake. Absolutely gorgeous. Great location! Good drinks and better food.
… moreSue
What has happened to the Barrel Back? The lavender martinis, always a must for us in the summer, were served in champagne coupes rather than a martini glass. No lavender sprig. I ordered bruschetta to go, wish I would have looked at it before I left as I never would have accepted it. It was not tasty either, bitter and oniony. Service was really slow. Photos are last summer vs this summer. Sad.
… moreJason Struve
We stopped in on a Friday night for an early dinner. We sat and were served immediately. Our server Christopher was awesome.. The chocolate martini was on point. We got the Perogi as an appetizer. I was a little disappointed with the bacon and kraut not being inside but still delicious. We got the pasta, chicken bbq pizza and cuban. All were flavorful and hit the spot. The view is to die, for and the ambiance is phenomenal.
We will be back when we are in the area.
… moreScott D.
Had a great lunch and excellent service. The wait staff was very professional and attentive. The store manager downstairs was very welcoming, helpful ,and informative as well.
The location is amazing.
… moreJeff “Michigan Adventures”
One of my favorite up north restaurants. The food is always very good. The dining area was busy and we were told there would be a wait. Ended up sitting at the bar and had excellent service!! Make sure to get the carrot cake even if you have to get it to go! So worth it!!
… moreC A
Terrible and not worth the money. Half the food came out cold…not meaning not warm enough for our liking, but actually colder than room temperature. Server was absolutely nowhere to be found so other staff handled it. Our server finally came over and did apologize, but would disappear for long stretches of time without checking on any tables. We were not the only table with cold food, seemed to be that day’s theme. Even once warm food arrived, it was terrible. Most of us left hungry after paying for pricey meals. Server offered free dessert, but would have much preferred having had decent meals to begin with. Will not be back.
We really wanted to like this place, the location and view from restaurant are lovely, but the food and service ruined that for us.
… moreJennifer Ledingham
Best restaurant ever very accommodating, for people who have food allergies too. The food was absolutely amazing. We’ll definitely be back
… more