Groningen is full of ‘barrels’, old bicycles of which you can wonder if it is still wise to use them, especially if you had a few wines or beers. Barrel also refers to the oak barrels in which some wines are aged.
The name of our Winebar is inspired by both. We love wine, of course, but we also feel a connection with all those people who paddle home after a glass of wine at night in our beautiful student city. In our (first) logo you will see an old bicycle with a flat rear tire, a basket of wine and a gentleman with a big (alcohol) nose and a flowing scarf. In the original design, he was even walking in a heavy shower, but on closer inspection we thought that was too depressing for our cheerful wine establishment.
By the way, in Dutch (or in Gronings) we say: “BÁrrel”, emphasizing the “A” ?
At Barrel we love the down-to-earth side of wine: a good glass, served with knowledge but not too much explanation… that would just distract from the enjoyment. A menu with 1,000+ wines, tasty snacks from the best suppliers, informal service and a nice atmosphere. Since our opening in December 2013, we serve to a wide range of fun guests from young to old. In January 2019 we were named "Winebar of the Year"!
Barrel Wijnlokaal is open on Wednesday from 5 PM till 11 PM, on Thursday from 5 pm till midnight (or "as long as it is fun"), on Friday and Saturday from 4 PM till midnight and on Sunday from 4 pm to 8 pm.
Outside these fixed opening hours it is possible (except on Fridays and Saturdays) to hire Barrel for a private party, a tasting or presentation.
For more information, please contact owner Martijn Fernhout at