Hey – I’m outta this crazy winter weather! I’m taking a short trip to Florida for some well-deserved sun and 80 degree temperatures! Make sure you follow my brew travels on Facebook (The Brewholder), Instagram (The Brewholder) and Twitter (@thebrewholder). Cheers!
Thanks again to Philly Beer Scene for inviting me to participate in their “Tasting Room” last night. We had some great craft brews – but I’ll let you read about them all in the March issue of Philly Beer Scene magazine! And thanks also to Mike of Eulogy Belgian Tavern for hosting – and the frites!
Cheers!
-The Brewholder
If names like Q-Bert, Pac-Man and Asteroids bring you fond childhood memories, and if names like Victory, Neshaminy Creek and Yards bring you delicious memories of last week, then Barcade Philadelphia is the place for you.
Barcade is nestled in an old industrial structure in Philadelphia’s Fishtown section; the brick outer facade and original interior ceiling beams remind you that this building was not always the beacon of fun that it is now.
As you enter, the bar greets you with almost thirty taps of craft beer from local breweries as well as others from around the country. When I was there, Neshaminy Creek’s “Reanimator” was on nitro, and a collaboration brew between Barcade and Victory – Fall Bockwards – was available.
There are about 10 classic arcade games in the front of building, but the back is where the big action is. From Centipede to Asteroids to Kung Fu Master, the collection of games invites you to relive the days of your youth on the boardwalk or in “the Mall” – the colorful lights and sound effects immediately evoke memories of high scores earned after hours of concentration. Except now there is a craft brew in your hand – and a cup holder on the machine!
I spoke with Paul Kermizian, co-founder of Barcade, and asked how he and his partners came up with the concept. He explained, “We just wanted to open a neighborhood bar for ourselves.” After directing a documentary about craft beer in 2003 called, “American Beer” (available on www.amazon.com), Paul knew their bar must serve craft brew, and, with a collection of four arcade games, they also thought that it would be great to put those games in the bar.
The original Barcade was opened in Williamsburg, Brooklyn in 2004. Recognizing its success, a second was opened in Jersey City in the spring of 2011, quickly followed by the Philadelphia location in the fall of 2011. Currently a fourth location is under construction in Manhattan.
According to Paul, the response to Barcade Philadelphia has been very positive, as seen by the large number of regulars who are there throughout the week and by the large, “crazy” numbers of people who come in on the weekends. As further evidence of Barcade’s success, Esquire Channel’s “Brewdogs” show ranked Barcade as their number one craft beer bar in Philadelphia. I asked Paul if he was surprised about this and he said, “It was unexpected…It was cool to get number one, especially since there are so many great craft beer bars in Philadelphia.”
Paul’s favorite video game at Barcade Philly? “Tapper” – a Budweiser inspired game originally released in 1983. You play as a bartender serving mugs of beer to thirsty patrons – but don’t let the unserved customers reach you or they will grab you and slide you down the bar and out the door! The Budweiser logos and trademarks are incorporated in every aspect of the game – the joysticks are shaped like tap handles, and if you win the bonus round you receive 3,000 points and a hearty, “This Bud’s for you!”
My recent visit to Barcade was truly special because I was there with Chris Steltz of BeerGeekNation.com and Mark Bussler of ClassicGameRoom.com. Mark, who reviews video games from all eras, was truly impressed and recommends Barcade to his fans: “Kids that grew up in the 80’s going to arcades or playing these games on Atari and NES are now adults. Barcade wonderfully preserves the arcade games and serves them up with beer and good times – it’s the perfect storm of nostalgia and refreshment!”
It’s simple – if you ever saved your quarters to play video games at an arcade in the 80’s, and you love craft beer in the 2010’s, then you need to check out Barcade. The experience of playing Spy Hunter or Ms. Pac Man with a quality craft beer will make you more than happy about being separated from your hard earned quarters!
Barcade has special beer events such as tap takeovers often – visit Barcade’s website, Facebook page, or follow Barcade on Twitter and Instagram to see what’s up next.
Cheers!
The Brewholder
Copyright 2013 – all rights reserved
Stoudt’s Brewing has been a mainstay of Pennsylvania craft brewing since 1987. The brewery, and its attached restaurant, The Black Angus Restaurant and Pub, located in Adamstown, Pennsylvania, are dedicated to traditional German style beer, food and steak. Decorated in a Victorian style, the Black Angus is a wonderful place throughout the year, but during the holiday season, its true beauty shines through.
I try to visit Stoudt’s at least once every December, to soak in the Christmas spirit – and of course – the wonderful brews. When I was there recently, Stoudt’s special IPA was on tap – the Four Play IPA #4. With tropical notes and a clean finish, it was a nice change from the complex flavors of the holiday porters and stouts common this time of year.
But of course, one sample is not enough. A flight consisting of Stoudt’s Kolsch, Red Lady, Double IPA, and a special Fat Dog with Cherries on cask, with an accompanying cheese plate, was absolutely called for!
Several of my companions, including Chris from BeerGeekNation, tried the “Whiney Dog,” Stoudt’s Fat Dog Stout aged in red wine barrels for 14 months, and were duly impressed.
The Black Angus is focused primarily on beef, but consistent with their German style brews, the menu offers traditional Bavarian fare – our table ordered wursts and Jagerschnitzel, with brown gravy and spaetzel. No one was disappointed!
Stoudt’s Black Angus Restaurant and Pub provides a hospitable atmosphere and outstanding beer that will warm you from the inside out after a long day of holiday errands. If you happen to be in the Adamstown area during the Christmas season (or any season for that matter!), you must visit Stoudt’s. In addition to the restaurant and the brewery, the “Wonderful Good Market” offers artisanal Cheese and bread, and the Black Angus Antiques Mall is also worth the trip.
Stoudts holds brew festivals several times during the year, and the brewery is open for tours on Saturday at 3:00 pm and Sundays at 1:00 pm. More information can be found on the Stoudts website.
Cheers!
The Brewholder
Copyright 2013 – all rights reserved
Philadelphia has always been a great city for celebrating Christmas. From the light show and window displays at Wanamakers/Lord & Taylor/Macy’s, to the more recent traditions of the Comcast Center Holiday Spectacular and the Philadelphia Christmas Village in Love Park, beginning on
Thanksgiving weekend, Philadelphia offers a great Christmas vibe – and beverages – for the season!
If you get the opportunity to spend some time in the City during this hectic holiday season, make sure you check out these festive spots:
McGillin’s Olde Ale House – Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating tavern transforms its main room into a holiday wonderland. Cozy up to the fireplace and enjoy McGillin’s special craftbrews, brewed by Stoudt’s Brewing – McGillin’s 1860 IPA; McGillin’s Real Ale and McGillin’s Genuine Lager. Located at 1310 East Drury Street (between Walnut & Chestnut).
Philadelphia Christmas Village – In its sixth year, the Philadelphia Christmas Village is held in Love Park from November 28 through New Year’s Day. Vendors in more than 60 booths sell traditional European food, sweets, and drinks – including Gluhwein (mulled wine) from Chaddsford Winery. The smell of the bratwursts, Gluhwein and roasted nuts, along with the sound of Christmas music and the nip of chilly air, combine to make you feel like you are actually in Germany!
Brauhaus Schmitz – Once you are done shopping at the Christmas Village, continue the German holiday experience by having an authentic meal in Philadelphia’s premier German restaurant. After being on your feet shopping, I’d suggest refreshing yourself with a Jever Pilsner. Then – if it’s still available – try the Hofbrauhaus Traunstein 1612er Zwickelbier – only available in three locations in the U.S. and a treat for lager enthusiasts!
Make sure you take the time during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to get out and enjoy what Philadelphia has to offer – you won’t be disappointed!
Happy Holidays and Cheers!
For anyone who’s seen the Beer Hunter Movie, you know the phrase “my local.” It refers to your local pub – the place that’s convenient, comfortable and tasty. My local happens to be Forest & Main Brewing Company in Ambler, Pennsylvania. In operation for a little less than two years, Forest & Main has earned respect in the greater Philadelphia area for its Belgian and English inspired brews.
On my most recent visit, I noticed something missing in the bar area. The television in the front right corner was gone. When I asked what inspired the change, I received a response that I should have anticipated – “We took it down because it’s just not us. It’s not our thing – no one comes here to watch the game. They come here for the beer.”
I had to agree. If you’ve been to Forest & Main, you know that it resides in a former Victorian home; the candle lit rooms and hand crafted brews lend themselves more to conversation and music than screaming at struggling Philadelphia sports teams.
And to my pleasant surprise, Forest & Main replaced the television with a record player – yes, a vinyl record player. Every Wednesday night is now “Bring Your Own Vinyl Night” and patrons are encouraged to share their favorite records. As I’ve said before, in my opinion, when you have good beer, good music, and good friends, craft brew is fully experienced. So kudos once again to my local!
Cheers!
Copyright 2013 – all rights reserved
www.The Brewholder.com
In the midst of the Oktoberfest celebration, I went to Germany with a few friends. Well, it wasn’t actually Germany, but it was extremely close. Brauhaus Schmitz on South Street is in my opinion the closest you will get to the true essence of a Munich beer hall in the Philadelphia area. When I walked in the front door, I immediately knew that I was in for an authentic treat as I inhaled the distinctive scent of German delicacies – wursts, schnitzel, spaetzel and brown gravy – being cooked in the kitchen. In addition, the wood paneling and Bavarian blue and white ribbons confirmed that I had suddenly crossed the Atlantic.
We were taken to the Brauer Bund, a large room with a vaulted ceiling and filled with numerous wooden tables. The chandeliers hanging from the ceiling were draped in festive ribbons; the light blue and white colors evoked anticipation of the fun that was in store.
Before taking our seats, we enjoyed our first authentic German beers at the bar. The selection of German beer at Brauhaus Schmitz is nothing less than amazing; many are imported specially for the restaurant and are not available anywhere else. I began the evening with an Ayinger Jahrhundert Helles Lager, which was so incredibly crisp and clean it wasn’t long before the glass was empty. After another round, we were introduced to our courteous and extremely knowledgeable waiter, Guy, who was born in Germany and remains fluent in German. As he led us to the square, rough-hewn wooden table for twelve, I was reminded of my visit to the Braumeister’s room at the Löwenbräukeller in Munich. Although the table at Brauhaus Schmitz was not private, its location in the corner of the room, as well as its size, created an intimate atmosphere.
I began my meal with a Bavarian Soft Pretzel and radishes, and for my entrée I shared the Wurstplatte with red cabbage and spaetzel. My companions tried many things from the menu, including the Schnitzel and PilzStrudel (one of Brauhaus Schmitz’s vegetarian offerings). I washed down the wursts with ein Faβ of Brauhaus Schmitz’s Oktoberfest. The sweet maltiness perfectly complemented the savory flavors of the wursts, spaetzel and brown gravy.
Rather than dessert (which was hard to decline), I ordered a Licher Oktoberfest, a beer that was created using a traditional recipe from the early 1900s.
When the dessert plates were all empty, we completed our meal in the traditional German way – with schnapps. I chose a herb schnapps, while others selected the Obstler (mixed fruit) schnapps.
When Guy learned that Chris from BeerGeekNation was with us, he immediately wanted to showcase the best German selections Brauhaus Schmitz had to offer. As clear proof that Brauhaus Schmitz is dedicated to expanding American knowledge of “craft brewed” German beers, Guy generously shared several samples of his favorites. We were all pleasantly surprised by the complexity of flavors we tasted in the hard to find brews.
As our celebration came to an end, my faith was restored that an authentic German restaurant has returned to Philadelphia. The combination of the food, the beer, the ambiance, and the service left me with no doubt that I will be returning to Brauhaus Schmitz to celebrate Oktoberfest again – but most likely long before “Ozapft is!” is announced in 2014!
Prost!
You’ve probably seen a million commercials – a group of friends in a small pub, laughing, talking – looking like they are extremely comfortable there. Typically my nights are not like that – but last night it was – thanks to some good friends I hadn’t seen in years and Tired Hands Brewing Company. http://www.tiredhands.com.
It all started innocently enough – I reached out to one friend who I hadn’t seen in probably eight years, and before we knew it, it was time for an ad hoc reunion for three of us. So we tried to find the most convenient point to meet, and geographically, it was Ardmore, Pennsylvania. Instantly, I told the group that we had to go to Tired Hands Brewing Company – you know, Philly Beer Scene’s “Brewpub of the Year” 2013.
Tired Hands, which only opened in 2012, won the Brewpub of the Year based on its brew – such as its HopHands Pale Ale (4.8% ABV, an aromatic pale ale brewed with oats and hopped with a blend of Amarillo, Simcoe, and Centennial); but also because of the care and passion inserted by Brewmaster Jean Brouillet IV into his new creations, like the Kickphone IFlip, (5.5% ABV), an IPA brewed with wheat and hopped with Citra, Simcoe, Centennial and Amarillo hops.
I was inspired to write about Tired Hands not only because of those brews that I sampled (which, of course, were outstanding), but because the entire evening made me feel as though I was in one of those commercials. My friends were already seated at a rough-hewn wooden table when I arrived; the brick walls and warm lighting reminded me of a comfortable living room. The bar and the wall behind, including the menu, were inviting in their earth tones.
Tired Hands Bar
The menu
After a few minutes, and a few swigs of the HopHands, it was as if eight years had not passed and we were back in the “old days.” We reminisced and laughed heartily – and ordered another round. Jean gladly filled our glasses from behind the bar, and I can only assume he felt a sense of satisfaction that his establishment was the catalyst for such a great night.
In my opinion, Tired Hands has mastered the concept of the brewpub – both in its fresh, quality brews as well as providing a welcoming place for its customers to enjoy them. The combination of the HopHands, the cozy and welcoming design of the pub, and the reunion with long lost friends all lead me to strongly recommend that if you find yourself in Ardmore, or can find any excuse to get there, you must go to Tired Hands. Cheers!
Copyright 2013 – all rights reserved
When I visited the newly opened Southbound Brewing Company in Savannah, Georgia, it was clear that three things guide the creative process there – quality brewing, music and friendship. And as Savannah’s first production-only microbrewery, those three factors have been essential to the success Southbound has seen in the few short months they’ve been open.
Southbound Brewery is operated by Brewmaster Smith Mathews, Marketing Director Carly Wiggins and Brewer Alex Breard. Smith studied at the Seibel institute in Chicago, Illinois and the Doemens Academy in Munich, Germany. He received his International Diploma in Brewing Technology from the World Brewing Academy. Smith and Carly, friends since childhood, have attended more than 2000 concerts combined, and their appreciation for music has provided the motivation not only for the name of the brewery – which is a nod to the Allman Brothers – but also for the names of their initial flagship brews – Scattered Sun Wit, Hop’lin IPA and Iron Lion Pale Ale.
When I first arrived at Southbound, just a walk from the Savannah Riverfront district, I was given a tour of the brewery by Smith, who showed me the brewhouse, which is comprised of four (4) vessels and five (5) 60 barrel fermentation tanks. Besides the line of brilliantly shining silver fermenters, my eye was drawn to the ceiling where the 24 foot diameter “Big Ass Fan” ensures that the southern heat doesn’t impact the brewing process. Smith led me up to the raised platform that provides access to the mash and lauter tuns, and also houses the computerized system that he can monitor anytime, from anywhere, through an app on his smartphone.
Southbound has enjoyed great local support and success in their first few months – in less than 50 days, they obtained over 100 accounts in the southeast Georgia region. In their first four weeks of production, they were making single batches that only filled the fermenters halfway. By Week 5 they needed to begin making double batches – which they thought wasn’t going to happen for quite some time.
After the brewery tour I spoke with Carly about the effort it has taken to establish Savannah’s first production-only microbrewery. She explained that obtaining the financial support was the easy part – the difficult part was, and continues to be, educating the Savannah City Council on the differences between a brewpub and a production brewery. This is an important distinction because Savannah has its share of restaurants and one brewpub, but has no other production breweries that give tours to the public. But even though I was given a tour, don’t expect to show up and get one yourself – at least not yet. The Southbound team is waiting – patiently – for the Savannah City Council to approve an ordinance that was proposed almost a year ago that would allow brewery tours. Once permitted, the tours will occur during a two (2) hour period and will include a tasting of their brew – but no more than 32 ounces per person, per day. According to Carly, she is sure that the ordinance will pass, but the City Council just needs more time to learn about what they are doing. In the end, they are just happy to be brewing at this point.
When tours are finally permitted, the public will be able to see the warm and welcoming main entrance and waiting area, which are designed in the southwestern motif that is also found in Southbound’s “hop head” logo. I asked Carly about the “hop heads” – three Kokopellis with hops buds on their heads. Although they were first drawn to the symbol because of the incorporation of musical instruments, she explained that when they researched the Kokopelli, they learned that it represented trade and fertility. They concluded that if you mix beer and music, fertility might take its course – and so the “hop heads” were born.
While interviewing Carly – in true southern hospitality – I was offered a Hop’lin IPA (6.2% ABV). It was a well-balanced American IPA that hit the spot after walking through the sultry Savannah heat. I imagine that it would be perfect for a summer barbecue while enjoying a game of horseshoes, or just sitting at an outdoor bar catching up with friends. To try the others, Carly took me to one of Southbound’s biggest supporters – Savannah’s World of Beer located at 112 West Broughton Street. The friendly and knowledgeable beer manager Chris Geerlings poured me a flight of regional selections, which of course included Southbound’s two other flagship brews – Scattered Sun Wit and Iron Lion Pale Ale. The Scattered Sun Wit was a light, summery brew that encourages you to take it outside and enjoy it in the sun, and the Iron Lion was a solid Pale Ale true to its style.
Carly told me that among their other plans for the future, they intend to produce a “Siren Series,” a line of sour beers each dedicated to songs by female artists or with female names in the titles. Information on the release of these brews, as well as when tours have been approved by the Savannah City Council, can be found on the Southbound website (www.southboundbrewingco.com) and on their Facebook page. As far as their plans for expansion into different markets? Carly explained that they will be careful in what they do because they “don’t ever want to grow faster than you can produce, and you don’t want to take the chance that the quality won’t be there.” As an example, they postponed the highly anticipated first release of their Pale Ale because it didn’t meet their expectations – “We dumped an entire 60 barrel tank. It was a sad day…but everything that we’re going to send out has to be perfect. It’s all about quality.”
Southbound is a wonderful example of what can happen when friends, music and brew are united. As Carly said to me, “In my opinion, we’ve got a pretty good vibe going – three friendly people that just love beer.” Although it may be some time until we may see Southbound on taps outside southeastern Georgia, I recommend that anyone headin’ south seek out Southbound Brewing Company’s offerings, turn on some classic rock, and enjoy the brews outdoors. Cheers!
The Brewholder, July 31, 2013
Copyright 2013 – all rights reserved