Barrels Wine Bar

Cozy and inviting, this wine bar doubles as a bottle shop with over 1,000 wines to explore and around 40 glass pours served The service gets high marks friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to guests’ preferences . Patrons often praise the rotating specials, wine flights, and small plates in a relaxed, conversation-friendly setting some even comparing it to “Cheers.” Live music nights add to the charm .

Barrels on Mercer Island is hands down my favorite local wine bar. From the moment you walk in, Josh has a way of making you feel like you’ve just been welcomed into a friend’s living room—if that friend happened to have an incredible wine selection and impeccable taste. The atmosphere is relaxed, warm, and never pretentious. Whether you’re a casual sipper or someone who loves diving into tasting notes, this place strikes the perfect balance. The staff is a huge part of the magic here—yes, I’m looking at you, Jim, with your unmatched charm and quirky humor. The team remembers what you like, what you don’t like, and what you should absolutely try next. It’s the kind of service that turns a wine bar into a community. From thoughtfully curated glasses to adventurous flights and fun rotating options, every visit feels like a new discovery. And don’t get me started on the food pairings—simple, delicious, and always on point. Barrels is a dream come true for anyone who loves great wine, great company, and a place that feels like home. If you’re on Mercer Island (or even close), do yourself a favor: stop in, say hi to the crew, and settle in for a perfect evening. Cheers to Josh, Jim, and the entire Barrels family. 🍷

Had a wonderful time. Josh the owner was hospitable and Jim was exceptional in servicing our group (huge group mind you). So kind and attentive. Although it was tight they made the atmosphere sublime. With the little space they curated a fabulous atmosphere, and for tht I applaud! Additionally, we were here for a champagne tasting hosted by Bill, owner of Sustenance Distributing. Overall, a phenomenal experience. Will definitely return.

Barrels is a fantastic place. My organization has held our summer event here for the past 4 years, and they have had good food, good fun, and fantastic service. Appreciate this venue!!

The thoughtfully selected wine & food, abundance of unique events scheduled throughout the month, and amazing people make Barrels a genuinely great place to be! Yup, definitely no reason to be biased here, not even a little.

So happy this wine bar is here. Small and cozy with amazing selection of wine by the glass and bottles. Tina and Joe are excellent stewards. Great spot to come solo or with friends. Cheers.

As COVID-19 ends, it’s time to get back to the places in our community where “everybody knows your name”. Barrels Wine Bar on Mercer Island is that place. Owners Tina and Joe have created a place and space where you can drop in, enjoy a great glass and a nibble, reconnect with old friends and make new ones too. It’s time for us to get back together. If you’re on Mercer Island check out Barrels. Who knows…they might even know your name. In the meantime, check out this short video of Tina and Joe, and let us know your experience at Barrels Wine Bar on Mercer Island. #barrelswinebar #winebarnearme

Very friendly staff and a wonderful selection of wines, both bottles and by the glass. I'll be back!

If you're looking for that perfect neighborhood wine bar where the pours are generous, the vibes are warm, and the people are unforgettable, look no further than Barrels on Mercer Island. From the moment Josh greets you, you know you're in good hands. He has a gift for recommending the right glass whether you want something bold, silky, funky, or a little adventurous. And then there's the staff--yes, Jim, I absolutely mean you. Quirky, hilarious, and genuinely passionate about wine, the Barrels crew turns a simple night out into something special every single time. The wine list is curated with care, the flights are always fun, and the small bites pair perfectly without trying too hard. It's the kind of place where you come for a drink and somehow end up staying for two more because the conversation is just that good. Barrels is more than a wine bar--it's a community living room. If you love great wine, good people, and a place that feels like home, this is it. Cheers to the Barrels team for creating a space Mercer Island didn't just need... but deserved.

Before hopping on the bus decided to come here and have a beverage. A cider to be exact. Finnriver Black Currant cider. So delicious. And as always cool vibes and excellent service. When a spot is good it is good. Extensive wine selection, a few beers and ciders. Small bites too. Parking on Mercer Island is tricky. There are a few spots outside but not many. If you haven't been here we'll do it! It's like visiting a good friend's house for a drink. Please places for a quiet conversation and rotating artists. SYOY peeps!

Eclectic wines. Very well thought out and displayed. Weekly wine maker/ambassadors presenting wines. Excellent pricing. Very good food offerings.

We were at Barrels for a live music performance. It is a great place for that and a really nice place overall. If there is any kind of performance, make sure to make reservations in advance. It is no surprise they have an outstanding choice of wines that will satisfy almost anyone. We ordered a bottle of red blend from Alluvium cellars that was excellent. They seem to have a limited kitchen, but really make the most of it. We had a large cheese and meat plate, that came with three kinds of meat, two kinds of cheese, crackers, jam and mustard. The meat and cheese choices were excellent, very tasty. We also had the hummus plate. The hummus was good and also came with crackers (pita chips would have been better, but I can understand why they want to use crackers in multiple dishes). The music was great and we had a really fun time. We will definitely be back.

Barrels is THE spot! It's the perfect place in which to spend an afternoon/evening relaxing and conversing. I love children, but it's nice to have an adult-only space too, and Barrels is that place. There is a very welcoming atmosphere towards those such as myself who do not drink alcohol and instead prefer to sip on non-alcoholic beverages -- of which there is an extensive and diverse variety of selections. I have never felt any pressure to drink alcohol at all here, jokingly or otherwise. The food is excellent too -- also extensive and diverse. I especially love the Salish Sandwich. There is no TV there and the lack thereof helps to facilitate a calm, peaceful, and lively atmosphere in stark contrast to bars in which there are TVs. Josh is one of the friendliest people I have ever met on Mercer Island and his knowledge of wine is, for those who do drink it, is invaluable.

A large group of us found ourselves looking for an impromptu place to go after our high school reunion was refused at another local historic establishment. Barrels welcomed us with open arms and smiles! We will forever remember that. They made us feel wanted. It was a shame what transpired at the other venue but it turned out to be a blessing because now we know where to go! Wonderful charcuterie, beautiful selection of NA options, spirits and wine. Thank you so much! We will be back.

Barrels has a new owner and so it was trepidation that I went last night. A change in ownership often means that a once loved place loses its charm. I met the new owner, Josh and he was transparent with what he's working on. That was reassuring because it's how the previous owners handled themselves too. The food was good and paired well with the wine. The wine selection remains good and he was there to provide some insights into the lesser or unknown-to-me vineyards. I was a little concerned that there were still seats open but then I realized that it was a Tuesday night and felt better as it filled up. I. Glad to see that this little privately owned gem is still functioning. Please support this small business. BTW - they have a few bottles of Leonetti Winery for those that are looking for one of the WA great wines. They do have live music on some evenings and support local artists by hanging their art. Tip: signup for their email list to get the latest news from Josh

I stopped by having wanted to explore this place for some time. The atmosphere is friendly, inviting and the service is top notch! Not to mention amazing wines and rotating specials. Highly recommend if you're on Mercer Island.

I miss being able to visit as I used to. But this is one of the best wine bars in the state. Great wines.

What a fantastic place to sip wines from around the world! It's a fantastic place to hang out with friends or slide up to the bar for a flight. The new owner Josh is wonderful and he's the perfect person to Shepard and curate this great business.

Great selection of wines from France, Italy, California, Oregon and Washington. And within each region they have the favorites and some fun and new wines to discover. Staff was super friendly too! Biggest plus--reasonable price.

excellent wine selection, attentive service and a range of simple and affordable food options. service with a good attitude. nice atmosphere inside and tables outside of the weather is nice.

THE BEST PLACE EVER! My wife Stacey and I are new to Mercer Island and Barrels Wine Bar has been the best place we could ever find. The first time we went to Barrels the owners Joe and Tina welcomed us with open arms. Joe is the Wikipedia of Mercer Island. He knows everything that's happening on Mercer Island and has so many great recommendations of other places to go. He'll teach you about the vast variety of wines they carry and the small plates they offer are all fantastic. They offer special events and it's in the best location on the island. If there is only one place you visit on Mercer Island, its got to be Barrels Wine Bar. It's a wonderfully comfortable place, with fantastic wine and incredibly nice owners.

Have been meaning to pop in here and check the new wine bar out. Finally made it in and wish I had come sooner! Cute place with a lot of great wine (& beer) and food to choose from. They have a good amount of seating and if you want to buy one of their bottles and drink on site they have a small corkage fee. I ordered one of the Spanish Rioja Rosè's during HH ($8 normally and -$1 during HH) and a $5 meat and cheese plate. I was in a bit of a rush but had I not been I would have ordered one of their larger dishes that includes some cambazola and other cheeses as well as seafood. Service is great! I can't wait to come back with a group!

Had a chance to stop by Barrels last night just after HH. Out first time and we really enjoyed it. The owners were delightful as was the atmosphere. We'll definitely be back as the wine selection was amazing. Only thing is why do they charge a $10 corckage fee for the vino bought from them. Kinda weird. Great place and a must try.

Great wine selection, delightful food options and the owners are the nicest people ever! Love that they require proof of vaccination to enter (or sit in their outdoor area). It was nice to feel safe sitting indoors while dining. Highly recommend if you're looking for a place to relax with a glass of wine.

Wonderful friendly service. Plus good wines, good music and lovely art on display. Joe and Tina are the perfect hosts and very knowledgeable about wine. Oh and good food! A great asset for Mercer Island.

This place is always crowded, and for a good reason. It is a relaxed atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Owner is very attentive to the customers and will make you feel at home. I had a glass of a red blend wine and it was excellent, all day happy hour prices. My wife had an IPA beer on tap. Totally enjoyed ourselves and will definitely return. By the way, if you come to this place, make sure to bring your proof of vaccination. They do not allow anybody on the premises without it, so rest assured you will be safe.

We stumbled into this amazing wine bar after a big dinner and had an amazing time!!! The owners Joe and Tina and they had us trying amazing wines that we never would have thought of. So friendly and knowledgeable ! We stayed for 3 hours and all Uber home afterwards. It was bright inside and we asked them to dim the lights and it was very sexy! You have to stop in!!!!

Always love coming here. Joe and Tina treat everyone like family, and they have a great selection of wines. Joe and Tina always provide great tips on finding a perfect bottle of wine, and never try to up-sell me. In fact, they are usually pushing the wine they got at a great discount. Love this place and the owners!

This place is awesome! Great wine, great cheese​ plate (guys its so good), fair prices, and there is parking! The owners are wonderful and really know their stuff. Great for after-work​ drinks pre-diner. Came here with a girlfriend and we are already​planning​n our next outing here. Check it out, you won't​ be disappointed​!

I've been coming to Barrels since they opened. Joe and Tina really know their wines and have a great selection. But beyond the great wine experience - they are just awesome people. It's a great place to have a glass and chat with new and old friends.

Surprisingly cheap wine tasting! Everything was really good. I was in a white wine mood that day, and they helped me pick out what I would like.

This was an excellent find while exploring around our new neighborhood. The owners were so friendly and although it's hard for me to find something I truly enjoy, they figured me out on the first try! They have a great selection from PNW and around the world and also give you the option of buying a bottle and paying a corkage if you'd like to enjoy is there. We will definitely be back!

Love barrels!! My boyfriend and I live across the street, we love to do their tasting they always make great recommendations! We love that we can sample a bottle before purchasing, great service and the pricing is more then fair! Also so happy they have some patio seating available now!

Great addition to downtown Mercer Island. Very pleasant place to sample some interesting wine from around the world, a good selection of craft beers, and "small bites" of food. We got some good advice on wine selections, and had a good selection of appetizers that added up to a meal for two (and we were so enthusiastic about the wine that we brought a bottle home with us). Enthusiastic, knowledgeable service and wine advice as well. Looking forward to our next visit.

Checked this place out with some friends who recently moved to Mercer Island. It was pretty busy when we arrived (Friday at 7) so that's great for a new place! We were the youngest in there by far. We also were not greeted or helped for over 20 minutes. I know they were busy but it was a little frustrating to feel like we weren't being acknowledged. We ordered 2 bottles of wine and a large meat and cheese plate. We had to pay a corkage fee for one of the bottles but not the other. Not sure why though. We had a lot of fun there and the meat and cheese plate was good. I think this place is alright. Probably a little overpriced though.

Love this place! We go here almost weekly and always have an excellent experience. Great wine, rotating menu of options, and tasty appetizers. In the winter they have heat lamps outside and even stayed open in the snowstorm last year, which made for a memorable Valentine's date for my husband and myself. Inside is also cozy. Highly recommend.

What a lovely evening we experienced at this intimate yet elegant wine bar. We asked Joe to bring us his favorite red blend and we were not disappointed. Tina and Joe have succeeded in providing a comfortable place to gather for a relaxing glass of wine or microbrew. Loved it!

Wonderful new wine bar/retailer on Mercer Island. Great space, friendly and knowledgeable owners who are passionate about wines, and love connecting with the community. A great addition to the Island!

Had a great time here. We had the Rodney strong upshot, was fantastic. Definitely will come back next time I'm in town.

We stopped in looking for a place to kill a hour and found ourselves having great wine, conversation and warm company with the owner and his wife. I'm not in the area very often but I will always make sure this is a stop I make.

Staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Service is excellent and fantastic selection of wines. Would highly recommend!