Brie & Barrel - Port Alberni, British Columbia

Alice L.

An absolutely mouthwatering experience from beginning to end. We started with the baked brie and caramelized onion to accompany our berry spritz and caesar, then moved on to the shrimp linguine and chicken cordon brie and finished with the deconstructed baklava. We barely stopped to take a breath. Like hungry animals at the zoo. Cream sauce doused the table as we inhaled our dishes with such relish.

Our server was phenomenal, making menu suggestions with such aplomb and warmth that we felt very assured with our choices. This restaurant is such a treasure, I'd travel across the country to eat at it again. I was also blessed to meet the chef of the place, a beautiful and talented woman who clearly has a grasp on the best things in life. We will remember this place fondly as we head home to bitter ontario. Lots of love to all the staff.

Christina W.

This review is long overdue but I still wanted to share my appreciation for the wonderful birthday dinner I had at Brie & Barrel back in March. This place continues to be one of my favourite restaurants ever (even compared to restaurants in Vancouver, where I used to live). I love the atmosphere and the evening ambience, the service was wonderful (so warm, welcoming, and they made my sister and me feel genuinely cared for), and the food and cocktails were impeccable. Everything was delicious; so flavourful, well-balanced, and also just beautifully presented. I also really appreciate them having solid vegetarian options that don’t feel lacking at all. I look forward to trying their Moroccan dishes during future visits! Thank you for a memorable and utterly delicious night 🙏🏽

Jennifer B.

Had such a great meal for our anniversary. The Lemon Pepper Prawn Linguine was so delicious, I savored every last bite. My man had the lamb and it was also delicious. The chocolate mousse is a MUST! The service was fantastic. Lovely family owned business. I hope this restaurant gets the well-deserved support. We will definitely be back. Thank you again for the lovely experience.

Alyssa L.

Vibrant, flavourful, large portions and well plated dishes. The staff were so friendly and always checking in. I'm visiting from the Kootenays, and I highly recommend the Brie and Barrel.

I highly recommend the Chicken Cordon Brie and linguine 🍽️

Leah M.

The food was incredibly flavourful . I struggle to describe this five star gastronomic experience ! The catch of the day , cod settled on mini roasted potatoes in a nest of garlic parsley lemon all framed with grilled mini tomatoes grilled with yellow sweet peppers !!! Pictures would not do this dish justice . My husband had the lamb also a jewel of a dish! We shared a homemade balaclava , not sticky sweet, with plenty of pistachio ! Not a meal to be rushed!

Jessie T.

We took our daughters and ordered three appys to share, drinks and main dishes. Everything was incredibly delicious!!! The atmosphere is wonderful and relaxing and the staff are lovely. Highly recommend this restaurant for a cozy, high quality dinner experience.

Shelley C.

We finally made it into Brie & Barrel on September 5th. The service was amazingly provided by Keanna, daughter of Chef Bouchra extraordinaire. What a meal. We started off and shared the Green Hummus & Baguette, so delicious, beautiful creamy garlic texture, along with the crunch of toasted walnuts and crostini’s, and a touch of sweetness from the pomegranate molasses. I selected the Beef Short Rib M’Hamer as my main. The short rib was seasoned superbly in Moroccan spices and incredibly tender. Seasonal vegetables along with roasted potatoes, almonds and candied apricot balances the meat. The combination of spices and textures was like a dance party in my mouth. I loved how layered the meal tasted. I paired my meal with a flight of International red wines, which was an excellent accompaniment. My husband chose Moroccan Lamb Tagine, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Not being large eaters, we were only able to finish half the meal each. The bonus, was that we had leftovers the next day, and were able to swap meals to try each other’s selection. Both were excellent dishes. A very unique food experience. A return visit is well warranted.

Sproat L. L.

We had the patio all to ourselves, perfectly timed dinner experience

Food was presented beautifully and tasted so so great. Very happy with the service the food and the vibes.

Will certainly return and continue exploring the menu. THANK YOU TO THE STAFF FOR A GREAT EXPERIENCE 🙏