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The Prairie Whale In Massachusetts Is A Cozy Restaurant In A Former Bookshop

Published Apr 24, 2021

Written by 

Sophia Mitrokostas

The Prairie Whale is a cozy little restaurant in Great Barrington with an offbeat vibe and plenty of charm. This characterful spot was once a bookshop and has been a part of the local community for years. Here’s why you should definitely make some time to head over to the Prairie Whale for a fabulous meal.

The Prairie Whale is a cozy and quirky restaurant in Great Barrington. It serves upscale comfort food in an atmosphere that will remind you of home.

Aerial view of a vibrant outdoor space with people socializing in a garden surrounded by houses and greenery.
Facebook/Prairie Whale

This restaurant was once a bookshop and antique store. The dining room is paneled with reclaimed and local cherry wood, and many of the old building’s original details have been retained.

A restaurant wall featuring colorful flags, a framed artwork, and a wooden table set with napkins.
Google/Jen Baldwins

People come from far and wide to dine on the Prairie Whale’s beautiful patio and lawn. It has a real garden party vibe.

Outdoor dining area with wooden tables, umbrellas, and a view of a street lined with trees and buildings.
Google/Noah Rosen

Of course, even the best atmosphere can’t make up for lousy food. Luckily, this spot definitely delivers on taste.

A table set with wine, a salad, charcuterie, and hand sanitizer, surrounded by greenery in a casual outdoor setting.
Facebook/Prairie Whale

Some of our favorites include the house-made sausage, flaky fried chicken, and the grass-fed burger. Don’t forget a side of their famous corn bread with smoked habanero mint butter!

A sesame seed bun burger with lettuce, cheese, and ham, served with a side of wavy potato chips.
Facebook/Prairie Whale

There are plenty of vegetarian options, including tender risotto with mascarpone cheese and the Sicilian-style pizza.

A freshly baked pizza topped with pepperoni, jalapeños, and melted cheese on a wooden table.
Google/Caroline Howard

Ingredients here are fresh from local farms and cheese makers. The restaurant also has its own on-site garden.

A woman plays table tennis outdoors while a man watches, with people seated at a nearby patio in the background.
Google/Simon Hernandez Arthur

Indoor and outdoor dining are available based on the weather and season. The menu is tied to the season, so check back often to see what’s new!

A charming house with a porch, string lights, and a garden, set against a twilight sky.
Google/Michael Kane

The Prairie Whale in Great Barrington is open for on-site brunch and dinner from April 23, 2021. Reservations are recommended. Check the website for current opening hours and dining availability.

What’s your favorite homey restaurant in Massachusetts?

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