It’s official: my life has been permanently altered by the amazingness that is The Barn Light Bar. This hybrid coffee shop/bar/restaurant is an absolute must for anyone in Eugene, visitor or resident.
Walk in and you immediately feel at home. Hang your coat on the rack up against the original 1920s brick wall and head for the register. The dark wood paneling and rustic decor give a sense of being inside an old cabin or farmhouse, while the hum of students, professors and local Eugenians matches the rhythm of the old-school Rock ‘n’ Roll playing in the background.
Photo by Briana Jones
Everything on the menu will make your mouth water instantly, but the must-have food item here is the Frito Pie. Served in the type of paper bowls you get at the country fair, it’s a heavenly combination of homemade chili, Fritos and Tillamook cheese, all baked to perfection.
The drool fest doesn’t stop there, however. Not only is the food epic, but it’s all either locally sourced or made in house (look for the TBL next to all homemade items on the menu.) From a cocktail that tastes like a boozy, lemony christmas tree (the Alpenglow), to the Plimoth Sandwich (better than any thanksgiving leftover sandwich we’ve ever had), to the house-made bread-and-butter pickles served on the side, you won’t be disappointed.
Photo by Briana Jones
Photo by Briana Jones
As if it could get any better, The Barn Light hosts a variety of events that have a distinctly homegrown Eugene feel. The bar showcases cultural musicians, Monday night game nights with Funagain Games, Thursday night Karaoke and an every-other Saturday spin night where Djs mix strictly vinyl records. Check out their Facebook page here for upcoming events and also scope some killer Happy Hour specials.
Photo by Briana Jones
One of their most popular and newest events is the LGBTQ-friendly Made In the USA night. The first wednesday of every month (next one Feb. 4, check it out here) takes on a different state as the theme, celebrating each one with specialty foods, music, drinks and even a themed photo booth. All proceeds are donated to an LGBTQ nonprofit from the chosen state.
Photo by Briana Jones
Teaming up with another Eugene favorite for Valentine’s Day, The Barn Light is also co-hosting a sort of anti-Valentines Day art show called ‘Love Bites’ with their next-door-neighbor, Sizzle Pie. Check out the info for this event here.
Address: 924 Willamette Street, Eugene, OR 97401
Hours: 7am-1am