The Barrel Bar & Grille at Gunstock Mountain Resort: A Cozy Refuge

If you are hitting the slopes at Gunstock Mountain Resort and need a break from the wind, The Barrel Bar & Grille, located in the Stockade Lodge, is a solid choice for a midday refuel. While many skiers default to the main Gunstock Lodge, we found that making the trek to the Stockade Lodge offered a much more comfortable and tasty experience.

The Vibe: Classic Ski Lodge Comfort

Walking into Barrel Bar & Grille at Gunstock Resort, you are immediately greeted by that quintessential lodge decor feel. With its rustic atmosphere and warm lighting, it is the perfect place to get out of the cold and shed a few layers while you warm up. It feels exactly like a mountain getaway should—cozy, unpretentious, and inviting.

The Menu: Solid Lodge Fare

When it comes to the food, it is important to manage expectations. The quality is good for a ski lodge, though it doesn’t quite reach the level of a high-end standalone restaurant. However, compared to the food served at the main Gunstock lodge, The Barrel Bar & Grille is a significant step up.

During our visit, our group sampled several menu staples:

• Smashburgers: Juicy and well-seasoned, these were a crowd favorite.
• Nachos: A massive portion that is perfect for sharing after a few runs on the mountain.
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Flatbread: A savory, satisfying option that hit the spot.
• Onion Soup: This was the only real miss of the day. The soup arrived with a very burnt top. When we sent it back, the server informed us that is simply “how it is made” at the restaurant. While we weren’t fans of the char, the rest of our meal made up for it.

The Highlight: Exceptional Service

The absolute standout of our experience wasn’t the food or the decor—it was the service. Our server was incredibly helpful, attentive, and friendly. Despite the busy lunch rush, they kept our drinks refilled and made us feel welcome. In a high-traffic tourist spot like a ski resort, this level of hospitality is rare and was easily the best part of our visit.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for the best place to eat at Gunstock, head over to the Stockade Lodge. The Barrel Bar & Grille offers better-than-average lodge food, a great atmosphere to escape the New Hampshire chill, and some of the best service you’ll find on the mountain.