thepourlife Heading to a brewery and unsure what to expect? Check out this helpful list of Brewery Do’s and Don’ts to ensure your experience is as smooth as that milkshake IPA you are about to devour.
Do… engage with your bartender. Asking for their expert advice can level up your experience. They may even offer some complimentary samples. They want you to be happy with your beer(s), so asking them questions and seeking their advice is a great way to make sure you get a pour you like and also learn a bit while you’re there.
Don’t… be intimidated. If you aren’t sure what something is or what you might like, just ask. This is your bartender’s passion, so take advantage. If they are very busy, be mindful of how many questions you ask. But generally, they want to hear feedback and help keep your experience going in a positive direction.
Do… order a flight, if it is offered (unless it is extremely busy… then you might consider ordering something simpler). If flights aren’t available, they might offer half pours. I’ve found that this is the best way to learn what you like and dislike in a craft beer. Check out Beer Flights 101 for more tips.
Don’t… leave a mess. If you are returning to the bar to order another round, bring those empty glasses with you. If you brought or ordered food, don’t leave trash all over the table when you leave.
Do… give a beer a couple sips before finalizing your opinion. Some beers pack a flavorful punch at first taste. Savor the flavor and appreciate the aftertaste. Once your taste buds adjust, you might change your initial opinion!
Don’t… bring kids unless you have plans for entertainment – and I don’t mean letting them have free rein of the brewery! Coloring books, tablets (with headphones!), and card games are great for entertaining kids. Some breweries sitting on large properties will even have space for kicking around a soccer ball (but please ask for permission from the staff first). Just remember, kids aren’t paying patrons. It could be frowned up to take up a lot of brewery seating for your kids and their friends when adults ready to drop some cash can’t find a seat.
Do… bring your well-behaved, leashed, friendly dog to breweries where dogs are allowed. A lot of caveats, yes, but I love brewery dogs and would always encourage it, when appropriate. Call ahead if you’re unsure of the rules. And be honest with yourself if your dog will do well in a busy public situation without disturbing other patrons. While many dog-friendly breweries have dog bowls, bringing your own bowl, water, and treats is recommended as backup.
Don’t… drink on an empty stomach. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and drinking that first beer without having food first is a sure way to unintentionally expedite becoming tipsy. Before heading to a brewery, figure out the food situation. Typically, they either 1.) don’t have food beyond small snacks but welcome outside food, 2.) regularly host food trucks (but be sure to check the food truck schedule) & allow outside food, or 3.) serve their own food (or have a food partner on site).
Do… tip your bartender. They work hard to give you a fun experience.
Don’t… drive if you partake in a lot of beers. Simple.
Did I miss something? What else would you like to tell you fellow drinking buddies about what to expect at a brewery?!
