The Barley House sits directly across the street from the State House and has been the de facto Concord political watering hole for decades. The menu is gastropub-leaning American — burgers, fish and chips, shepherd's pie, plus seasonal specials — and the beer list rotates through New England craft brewers, with a few classics on permanent draught. The bar fills with legislators, lobbyists and journalists during session, which is half the entertainment.
Bookings are useful at lunch and dinner; the place is small. Brunch on weekends is generous and busy.