Two like-minded people with collectively over 20 years of extensive experience in the restaurant and pub businesses, as well as hotels and lodging, met via a mutual friend, and after meeting for one lunch and a beer, they instantly put their heads together to conceptualize a modest destination where one could eat, drink, connect, and be social.
Imagine being a fly on the wall listening to Gareth and Steve at lunch just a year ago, eagerly discussing their ideas about opening a place that combines both great food and great drinks. “We wanted to be the local pub with great food. A place where friends and family could gather for a delicious meal, some drinks, and to create epic memories”, Steve describes. Gareth and Steve agreed there was a gap in the market in Natal for a place that encapsulated the above. It’s truthfully no surprise that they sure pulled it off at The Barrel.
“Gareth is an avid sportsman who just loves this kind of lifestyle. He loves the hospitality side of things, entertaining and networking”, Steven adds. For Steve, it’s about the culture and bringing people together. “I want to see friends gathering after work for a beer or a burger or seeing an 18-year-old boy having a celebratory drink with dad after finishing matric”, he explains. For The Barrel gents, their community is everything. They believe that to build good relationships with their neighbours in the restaurant game, it is important to “work together in synergy”. They believe in supporting each other and allowing everyone to thrive within their own unique offerings.
Their laid-back approach at The Barrel allows and encourages guests to come as they are – to leave their woes behind, gather around the round barrel tables with friends, sink a cold beer with a delicious meal, and revel in the ideal North Coast lifestyle. Speaking of burgers, they deserve a special mention for sure. Their
iconic hearty and mouth-watering burgers have seen patrons continuously coming back for more – they are just that good. If burgers aren’t your thing, their chicken schnitzel is a game-changer. “You’ve just gotta try it!” Steven gushes. For the folks who choose to stick to plants, they’ve thought of them too! They have a vegan burger that hits the spot – and you won’t be in the slightest bit disappointed.
Perhaps it was their passion for people, heart for hospitality, a gusto for great food and care for the coast that allowed them to pull it off – and we are so grateful that they did! So, if you haven’t paid them a visit, you are most certainly missing out, so stop by after work or after your afternoon surf. #youarewelcome
Contact Details:
Tel: 087 460 0456
Email: hello@thebarrels.co.za
Insta: @the_barrel_bar