RaR Brewing

Have you ever been to Cambridge, MD? There’s not much there… unless you’re into a small downtown and cornfields. However, it is home to RaR Brewing, the brewery that has taken Maryland by storm. I’m familiar with a number of their beers, especially Nanticoke Nectar – one of their more popular brews. I always choose the Nanticoke Nectar when I’m at a bar where the next closest thing to “craft beer” is Shocktop. Since I have seen RaR at a number of bars and typically always enjoy their beer, I had to check this place out for myself.

RaR is nestled right in downtown Cambridge in a historic, exposed brick building, with free parking close by. I recommend going on a day with decent weather, because their giant garage doors are typically open to the refreshing Eastern Shore air. (Side note, a lot of people let their dog sit on the other side of the half wall when the garage is open, meaning ample puppy petting for the rest of us). This place screams DGAF, and I’m digging it.

The chalkboard lists a lot of the beers that are commonly distributed, as well as a number of one offs. And don’t forget Hoop Tea (if you haven’t tried it, you are missing out on this intoxicating yet super delicious tea-like beverage). I think it is safe to say that I have never had a RaR I didn’t like. On this sunny, summer day, I opt for Stunt Cock, an IPA w/ strawberry. I actually got a refill, which says a lot because my second beer is ALWAYS something different than the first. It’s not overly hoppy, and the strawberry tastes authentic (none of the shitty artificial flavoring – or if it is, they sure fooled me). And be careful, at 7%, this easy drinking beer will sneak up on you. The “Wood’R” wasn’t bad either. And let me tell you about their beer taps. I love Mario just as much as the next 90s kid, so the fact that my beer is delivered through a green Warp Pipe is icing on the cake.

Almost equally as important as their quality beer is the food menu. They have a select menu of greasy goodness inspired by their beer and they make it right behind the bar. It will satisfy that drunk food craving that you are probably getting by now. Their friendly staff will gladly take your order, and might strike up a conversation while they are at it. All in all, if you have the chance to check this place out, you really should. It makes for an easy pit stop on your way back from Ocean City. My only con was that the beer to-go was the same beer that they distribute across Maryland (like Groove City). But it’s really NBD since there is the option for a cheap growler fill or oil can.