The District Eatery Tap & Barrel

We've been multiple times and everything we tried has been delicious. Huge fan of the Short rib and Trout. The pork chop is also fantastic, it's hard to decide what I want.

My recent return to the District was nothing short of a culinary renaissance. Walking into the familiar yet always invigorating atmosphere, I was immediately enveloped by the warm, inviting ambiance that had drawn me in times before. The experience was heightened by the exquisite "Nawlins Style Sea Bass & Crawfish," a masterpiece priced at $29. This dish is a testament to the chef's finesse, avoiding the common overzealous blackening often seen elsewhere. The Branzino's perfectly crisped exterior gave way to tender, flaky flesh, married flawlessly with succulent crawfish. The Andouille grit cake was a revelation, its rich, spicy notes creating a harmonious dance with the subtle sweetness of roasted peppers and the tangy zing of artichoke hearts and capers. The lemon cream sauce was the pièce de résistance, adding a luxurious, creamy finish that elevated the dish to new heights.

The thoughtfulness in the kitchen was evident in the detail of deshelling the crawfish beforehand, a gesture of culinary courtesy that allowed for uninterrupted enjoyment of the dish.

Venturing next to the "Red Crab Arrabiata," also competitively priced at $29, this dish featured plump, sweet red lump crab ensconced in a bold Calabrian chili sauce. The vine-ripe tomato confit added a depth of flavor, and the fire-roasted tomato sauce enveloped the perfectly al dente pappardelle in a warm, comforting embrace. While delicious, it was clear that the Sea Bass was the true culinary showstopper, a dish that transcended the ordinary and entered the realm of the extraordinary.

Service was exemplary, complementing the food's high standards. Attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly, the staff ensured our dining experience was seamless and memorable. For those planning a visit, heed this advice: make a reservation to avoid disappointment. While the outside seating offers its own charm under the starlit Sanford sky, the indoor ambiance is a key part of the overall experience.

In summary, my return to this Sanford gem has rekindled my passion for its culinary offerings. The Sea Bass, in particular, stands out as a dish not just to be eaten, but to be experienced and savored. It's a dish that beckons me back, and I eagerly anticipate my next visit. For anyone in search of a dining experience that combines exquisite flavors, impeccable service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, look no further than this downtown Sanford classic.

Came the day after Christmas. Actually had reservations on at a different resturant on the water but sat there for over 15 min and no one acknowledged us so we took a walk in downtown Sanford and stumbled upon The District. While they admitted they were also understaffed at the moment, our server Jenna worked so had to give the BEST service and friendly suggestions! Our party had the chicken dish, beet salad, and burger also the burrata and the tuna apps...all delish...5 stars for the food and service!

We came here after going to the distillery next door. There were only a few tables occupied. We chose to sit outside because it was a beautiful day. They had a fabulous special of the day that my husband and I shared. Winner, winner, not so chicken dinner, it was loved it. My mom had a burger that she enjoyed as qellm thw craft cocktaila are on pont. Will be back. Sorry, the post is a tad late 😉 and they may not have specials reflected in the photos.

We were visiting from out of state and decided to come here from Google Reviews. When we walked in the lady asked if we had a reservation and we did not. She was kind enough to squeeze us in at the bar area. The food and drinks were good. The atmosphere was nice.

Awesome food and atmosphere at the The District. Wife had the Rainbow trout and I had the special Singapore-Sanford street noodle. Sylvia was an amazing waitress and informative of the menu. Highly recommend when you’re in the Sanford area.

We love to go sit outside and enjoy a beautiful meal. The district NEVER disappoints us. We love to space out our dinners to try a new creme Brule each time. The fluffernutter one in the picture was amazing. The chef here is a gem. Definitely my favorite restaurant in downtown Sanford.

Gorgeous plates and presentation! Unique atmosphere, wonderful service, great drinks! Wonderful for date night or group dining!

Great environment. Excellent service. Good food. We went to The District based on a local recommendation. It didn’t disappoint. We were lucky to dine on an evening with relatively few other patrons which made for a calm quiet dinner. I had the trout, my buddies had stake. No one had anything to complain about. The serving sizes were ample.

I had my rehearsal dinner here for my wedding, and it was great! Unlike other chains they never required a down payment and only a small minimum to reach. The service and food were 5 stars. The filet was probably one of the best steaks I’ve ever had and the chicken was a huge portion, all my guest loved it.

Jenna was our excellent server. We each enjoyed bountiful a
Salad...all yummy. Entrees were plentiful and delicious. Those who cocktailedced were happy with their choices as well. 150 people waited 2 blocks away to eat German food. Break away from the crowd time talk a stroll to The District. You will be very glad you did.
BBL

Great find! Awesome cocktails, amazing menu, polished presentation and superb wait staff. A gem on 2nd st in Sanford. Who would have known. Pistachio crusted trout was a hit out of the ball park! Chef truly knows what he's doing.

Fantastic food!!! The soft tuna tacos are phenomenal!!!!
I loved my drinks!! I have a great time in here and I could stay longer but they close at 10☹. Well... I guess I have to come back more often to try other things in the menu😊!!!

What a fantastic hidden gem in downtown Sanford! The fish of the day (snapper) with shrimp was incredible and the Ahi Tuna salad was just perfect. We ate outside, in front of the restaurant, on a beautiful evening and it felt a little like a Cafe in Europe. Excellent service from our server and met the owner. Do yourself a favor and dine here for a delicious and relaxing treat!

This place is awesome! The owners are friendly along with the staff. Nick has been my bartender from day one and he's been spectacular. The Bourbon Bone-in Porkchop is amazing. I have had it the last 3 times I have been here. It's thick, tender, juicy and the sauce is bursting with flavor. The Broccoli and mashed potatoes are seasoned properly and delightful.

The drinks are all properly mixed and they use fresh ingredients to flavor every glass of their signature drinks.

Delicious food - we got the pork chop and the braised short rib. I loved the mushroom risotto, and the vegetables were properly cooked. According to the menu they don't do substitutions (though we didn't ask). We sat at the community table, servers were friendly. It's better on the weekend to have a reservation.

This is a meat gastropub style restaurant in historic downtown Sanford.

Food: The photo posted with this review is the bone-in pork chop and lamb chops (special). The pork chop was cooked perfectly to medium temperature, and had a delightful flavor. My table mates enjoyed the braised ribs. All meals were plated beautifully, and the braised ribs were also delicious.

Drinks: This place serves a wide variety of mixed cocktails. Personally, enjoyed the district old fashion. Drinks are creative and commendable. we have a good selection of brown liquors, and several beers on tap.

Decor: This location includes indoor and outdoor dining, and there is a bar. He's a welcoming environment.

Service: service here was excellent.

Everything about this place was absolutely perfect. The feel of the restaurant was both high class and relaxed. The flow of service was perfect. Our server was attentive but not intrusive. The drinks were made with quality ingredients and had the right balance. We had the District and the Sanford Smash. We started off with the lobster dip (not pictured)- great flavor and texture. We decided on the Nawlins style Grouper and shrimp, along with the Filet. The flavor and texture mix on the grouper dish was mouthwatering. It all went together so wonderfully. The filet could have been cooked just slightly more evenly but was still fantastic and I wanted to lick that port wine demiglaze off the plate. Overall a great experience- would definitely go back again.

The district is an awesome place. We went there for a group function and they were absolutely wonderful. The food was great, the servers and bar tenders are fabulous and helpful.

The decor is really fun and clean.

Wow, we just discovered this place! It’s small so you may need reservations but totally worth it! We were here on a Tuesday night at 5 pm so we were able to walk in. The service was fantastic and the food was even better! See photos. We cannot wait to come back!