Visiting a Taproom

Craft breweries are increasingly focusing on not just turning out great product but also on becoming a true neighborhood gathering place. Some brewery taprooms also feature one-off special brews that you can only get in the taproom.

 

 

Cutting out the Middleman

Serving customers in the taproom cuts out paying a distributor, meaning more profits for the brewery. However, it can also spoil retail sales if customers are getting all their product on the premises. It’s a delicate balance.

 

Finding a Taproom

There are more than 7,000 craft breweries operating in the U.S., and many of them have taprooms. Find the nearest one to you by using the interactive map at CraftBeer.com. You can also search along road trips or at travel destinations to find new regional brews you may not have heard of. Also ask around at your local liquor store for new brews and breweries you can check out.

 

Top Taprooms

CraftBeer.com holds a survey of beer drinkers and ranks the top beer bars in each state. Several taprooms made the 2019 list. If you’re anywhere near these top places, check them out and see if you agree.

Willimantic Brewing Co., Willimantic, Connecticut: In a circa 1909 post office, Willibrew, as it’s known locally, offers up award-winning house beers, food and a knowledgeable staff.

Mankato Brewery, Mankato, Minnesota: Founded in 2012, this taproom offers high-quality beers in a great space.

Lewis & Clark Taproom, Helena, Montana: This brewery is covered in awards for their hefeweizen and has been named small brewing company of the year at the Great American Beer Festival. The taproom has a rotation of 12 to 20 craft beers and live music.

Craft Centric Taproom & Bottle Shop, Arden, North Carolina: Part taproom, bottle shop and nanobrewrey, Craft Centric was founded in 2017 and strives to have an exciting and balanced beer list.