Okay, my apologies. That headline sounds like quite the marketing pitch and for the record I've got absolutely nothing to do with any aspect of the Craft Beer Express except for giving it a bit of publicity here. Yet, even though I've never partaken in a full-day of the twice-annual Craft Beer Express (and only rode the bus once for a short hop across town), there's something about this day that comes every March and November that I really appreciate and feel compelled to share with you.
As during Philly Beer Week, these twelve establishments, which represent some of the best of the local beer scene, put on a display of unique beers and themed events for the day and early evening. Throw in an all-day unlimited $10 bus pass and you've got the making of a fun beer day-drinking Saturday in the city with friends. It's quite the showcase for the local bar scene.
Given the rain forecast for this coming Saturday, March 14, what else would you rather be doing?
As I mentioned, I typically pick 1-3 stops and swoop in, typically by way of train and walking, for a few hours. One time, I swear, I'm going to walk the entire route and hit every stop. Of course this means sticking to a schedule and limiting each stop to a beer, but I think this would be a fun (and healthy) approach all the same.
For what it's worth, you can expect to see me at some point at Johnny Brenda's (because it's a stout brunch at JB's and I'm a fan of both the food, the beer, and the people), Kraftwork (because they've got one of the last kegs of Captain Lawrence's Think Drink that I "helped brew"), Jose Pistola's (because Pi is fun and nutritious and I love me some Other Farm), and Brauhaus Schmitz (because I will never pass up a chance to get into a fine German Alt bier, kudos to the crew there for securing its arrival on US terra firma).
Here's the rest of the schedule for the day.
Kraftwork 541 East Girard Avenue -- 215-739-1700
"I Heart NY" -- Lovable, huggable, kissable beers from New York state! Featuring Southern Tier, Ithaca, Captain Lawrence, Ommegang, Sixpoint, Bluepoint and Doc's Cider.
Johnny Brenda's 1201 Frankford Avenue -- 215-739-9684
"7th Annual Stout Brunch" -- Back for the 7th year! We will be pouring a wide array of local stouts on draft from Dry Irish Stouts to Oyster Stouts to Russian Imperial Stouts. We will have an awesome Full Irish Breakfast on the menu in addition to our regular brunch menu, plus an array of delicious oysters!
Standard Tap 901 North 2nd Street -- 215-238-0630
"Big Wood Weekend featuring Bone-In Brunch!" -- Big Wood Weekend is coming! Over the weekend we'll be pouring a heady array of barrel-aged and wood-smoked beer as we welcome Craft Beer Express. There's even a Big Wood mystery firkin from Victory Brewing. Big Wood also means the return of Bone-In Brunch! From 11-3 on Saturday and Sunday our brunch menu will feature all manner of meat on the bone from marrow to chops and ribs. So come hungry because BIG WOOD WEEKEND featuring BONE-IN BRUNCH will leave you filled up!
The Institute 549 North 12th Street -- 267-318-7772
"Widmer Invades The Institute" -- The brewers will be in town to talk about their amazing brews from the State of Oregon. We will also have the outdoor draft trailer to help minimize your wait for any food or beverage.
Bishop's Collar 2349 Fairmount Avenue -- 215-765-1616
"Deschutes & Ladder" -- Inversion IPA, Fresh squeezed IPA, Abyss stout, Mirror Pond, Black Butte porter, Zarabanda, Bachelor bitter, and Red Chair northwest pale ale.
Kite & Key 1836 Callowhill Street -- 215-568-1818
"Doggie Style!" -- Flying Dog is taking over the taps for the Craft Beer Express. There are no fleas on these dogs! Pearl Necklace, Raging Bitch, Old Scratch, Gonzo to name a few. We will have a special treat if you are good!!
Jose Pistola's 263 South 15th Street -- 215-545-4101
"Pie Day Celebration" -- Celebrate PIE Day and Jose Pistola's! Mini PIE eating competitions (PIES provided by the delicious Frecon Cidery). Competitions to see who can recite the most characters of PIE. Possibly some PIEs in the face. Featured drafts include: Other Farms Hoppy Mon, Other Farms Saisoner, Bell's 2 Hearted, Bell's Oarsmen, St. Bernardus Prior 8, St. Bernardus, and Rodenbach Collaboration Kazematten Grotten cave aged brown and the Oskar Blues Pinner.
The Sidecar 2201 Christian Street -- 215-732-3429
"IPA's Greatest Hits" -- It's baaaaaack! Hop heads: REJOICE!
Pub on Passyunk East 1501 East Passyunk Avenue -- 215-755-5125
"Sour Beer Tap Takeover" -- Pucker up sour pusses.
Devil's Den 1148 South 11th Street -- 215-339-0855
"Ommegang and Boulevard" -- Ommegang and Boulevard breweries will be taking over the taps at the Devill's Den for a mix of the Best Belgian and American craft beers.
Brauhaus Schmitz 718 South Street -- 267-909-8814
"US Füchschen Alt Beer Premiere" -- Brauhaus will host the exclusive United States launch of Füchschen Alt bier, a traditional German ale that has been hand-crafted in Düsseldorf since 1848. This rare copper-colored ale is brewed from a centuries-old recipe using toasty malt and noble hops, giving the beer a crisp, hoppy finish with a subtle caramel flavor and hints of toasted bread.
Race St. Cafe 208 Race Street -- 215-627-6181
"Captain Lawrence & Sixpoint" -- Please Join us in celebration of Captain Lawrence (Sunblock - Wheat IPA, Captains Reserve - Imperial IPA, Elderflower - Belgian Blonde) and Sixpoint Breweries ( Bengali - IPA, Crisp Lager, Resin - Imperial IPA, Sweet Action Pale Ale). Stop by to sample their beers and speak with their brewery representatives.
Showing posts with label Craft Beer Express. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Craft Beer Express. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Wednesday, March 05, 2014
Craft Beer Express, 2014-A version
Here we go again. Another round of Craft Beer Express, the day-long event of events. Twelve beer-centric joints with a theme to present to you, the good beer drinking public. A school of buses to shuttle you from bar to bar throughout the day, as many rides as you wish. Each bar is a pay-as-you-go arrangement and the bus is an all-you-can-ride arrangement for ten bucks.
Below is a quick rundown on what to expect at each stop. Check the website for a full version of the details.
Oh, and you think you might like to walk the entire route. It's not impossible, provided you don't spend more than 1-2 beers at each location. It'll cost you around 11 miles on the soles of your shoes.
Kraftwork - "Rocky Mountain High"
We'll have a stash of Grade-A liquid from The Rocky Mountain's best including Lefthand, Avery, Oskar Blues, Breckenridge, and Great Divide.
Johnny Brenda's - "6th Annual Stout Brunch"
Dry Irish Stouts to Oyster Stouts to Russian Imperial Stouts. We will have an awesome full Irish Breakfast on the menu in addition to our regular brunch menu.
Standard Tap - "Annual Big Wood Weekend"
Wake up to wood smoked and aged beers, paired excellently with an exclusive bone-in brunch menu.
The Institute - "5th Annual Big Banging Barleywine Bonanza"
Arcadia Cereal Killer, Avery Hog Heaven, Bell's Third Coast, Blue Point Old Howling Bastard, Boulder Killer Penguin, Duck Rabbit Barleywine, DuClaw Barrel Aged Misery, DuClaw Devil's Milk, Fegley's Brew Works Barleywine, Fegley's Brew Works Barrel Aged Arctic Alchemy, Fegley's Brew Works Barrel-Aged Barleywine, Flying Dog Horn Dog, Heavy Seas Below Decks, Left Hand Widdershins, Rock Art Ridge Runner, Sierra Nevada Bigfoot, Smuttynose Barleywine, Smuttynose Wheat Wine, Southern Tier Back Burner, Starr Hill Bandstand, Tröegs The Flying Mouflan, Two Brothers Bare Tree, Victory Oak Horizontal, Victory Old Horizontal, and Weyerbacher Insanity.
Bishop's Collar - "Dogfish Head Tap Takeover"
120 Minute, World Wide Stout, Noble Rot, Piercing Pils, Palo Santo Marron, Burton Baton, Hellhound On My Ale, Sahtea, Midas Touch, Namaste, and 75 Minute on cask.
Kite & Key - "Yards Collaboration"
Collaboration with Yards for a special Kite & Key choice brew (The Great White IPA). As usual, mayhem and incredible local suds from our good friend Tom Kehoe & Crew will be on tap.
Jose Pistola's - "Twin Geeks: Firestone Walker With Me"
In a bar where nothing is as it seems and where everyone has something to drink Who Killed Jenny Hobbs?
The Sidecar - "IPA's Greatest Hits"
It's baaaaaack. The most bodacious collection of hop juice in the universe.
Pub on Passyunk East (P.O.P.E.) - "I Wish They All Can Be California Beers"
All draft beer will be from the west coast including Bear Republic, North Coast, and Russian River, among others.
Devil's Den - "Hooked on Hops. Seduced by Sours."
The best of IPAs and sour ales.
Brauhaus Schmitz - "Dunkel Side of the Moon"
Pink Floyd and every dark German draft beer imaginable under the “moon.” We will be showing “Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii” on the big screen and “The Wizard of Oz” synched with the album “Dark Side of the Moon.”
Race St. Café - "Race Street Café is Kicking it Old School"
Join us in a celebration of the beers and the breweries that began the craft beer brewing revolution in Philadelphia with Yards, Dock Street, and Stoudt's.
Below is a quick rundown on what to expect at each stop. Check the website for a full version of the details.
Oh, and you think you might like to walk the entire route. It's not impossible, provided you don't spend more than 1-2 beers at each location. It'll cost you around 11 miles on the soles of your shoes.
Kraftwork - "Rocky Mountain High"
We'll have a stash of Grade-A liquid from The Rocky Mountain's best including Lefthand, Avery, Oskar Blues, Breckenridge, and Great Divide.
Johnny Brenda's - "6th Annual Stout Brunch"
Dry Irish Stouts to Oyster Stouts to Russian Imperial Stouts. We will have an awesome full Irish Breakfast on the menu in addition to our regular brunch menu.
Standard Tap - "Annual Big Wood Weekend"
Wake up to wood smoked and aged beers, paired excellently with an exclusive bone-in brunch menu.
The Institute - "5th Annual Big Banging Barleywine Bonanza"
Arcadia Cereal Killer, Avery Hog Heaven, Bell's Third Coast, Blue Point Old Howling Bastard, Boulder Killer Penguin, Duck Rabbit Barleywine, DuClaw Barrel Aged Misery, DuClaw Devil's Milk, Fegley's Brew Works Barleywine, Fegley's Brew Works Barrel Aged Arctic Alchemy, Fegley's Brew Works Barrel-Aged Barleywine, Flying Dog Horn Dog, Heavy Seas Below Decks, Left Hand Widdershins, Rock Art Ridge Runner, Sierra Nevada Bigfoot, Smuttynose Barleywine, Smuttynose Wheat Wine, Southern Tier Back Burner, Starr Hill Bandstand, Tröegs The Flying Mouflan, Two Brothers Bare Tree, Victory Oak Horizontal, Victory Old Horizontal, and Weyerbacher Insanity.
Bishop's Collar - "Dogfish Head Tap Takeover"
120 Minute, World Wide Stout, Noble Rot, Piercing Pils, Palo Santo Marron, Burton Baton, Hellhound On My Ale, Sahtea, Midas Touch, Namaste, and 75 Minute on cask.
Kite & Key - "Yards Collaboration"
Collaboration with Yards for a special Kite & Key choice brew (The Great White IPA). As usual, mayhem and incredible local suds from our good friend Tom Kehoe & Crew will be on tap.
Jose Pistola's - "Twin Geeks: Firestone Walker With Me"
In a bar where nothing is as it seems and where everyone has something to drink Who Killed Jenny Hobbs?
The Sidecar - "IPA's Greatest Hits"
It's baaaaaack. The most bodacious collection of hop juice in the universe.
Pub on Passyunk East (P.O.P.E.) - "I Wish They All Can Be California Beers"
All draft beer will be from the west coast including Bear Republic, North Coast, and Russian River, among others.
Devil's Den - "Hooked on Hops. Seduced by Sours."
The best of IPAs and sour ales.
Brauhaus Schmitz - "Dunkel Side of the Moon"
Pink Floyd and every dark German draft beer imaginable under the “moon.” We will be showing “Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii” on the big screen and “The Wizard of Oz” synched with the album “Dark Side of the Moon.”
Race St. Café - "Race Street Café is Kicking it Old School"
Join us in a celebration of the beers and the breweries that began the craft beer brewing revolution in Philadelphia with Yards, Dock Street, and Stoudt's.
Wednesday, March 06, 2013
Philadelphia, ready thyself for this weekend
You'll be getting the full dosage of beer events in the regularly-scheduled weekly calendar of events tomorrow morning (at 5 a.m. sharp, as always, for you early morning readers).
But, until then, allow some enthusiasm to spill forth for this weekend's embarrassment of riches here in Philly.
Sunday, the National Constitution Center plays host to The Brewer's Plate. Do you like food? Do you like beer? Do you like people (maybe not all the time, but just go with it here)? Do you like grand venues hosting beer/food/people events?
Then The Brewer's Plate is for you. Here's a piece where I wrote about it in 2011. You know my spot in The Communities section of The Washington Times, right? Go check out the piece I put up last year about The Brewer's Plate. What I've embarrassingly found in the meantime is an unpublished piece from last year's installment. Can't imagine how in the world it slipped past me like that, but let's see if I can rectify that before this weekend.
Need more convincing? How about a few of the announced pairings? Like: Alla Spina’s mortadella hot dogs with red cabbage and pickles paired with Stoudt’s Karnival Kölsch; Cedar Point’s grilled cheese stuffed with BBQ portabella and apple slaw and Boxcar’s Mango Ginger IPA; and White Dog Café’s house-made scrapple sliders with Dogfish’s Chicory Stout.
But, to get to The Brewers's Plate, you must first navigate your way around all or some portion of the Craft Beer Express on Saturday and its stops at 11 worthy beer destinations around the city.
The weather's looking fine and if you're up for walking between all the venues (instead of a $10 all-day CBX-exclusive bus pass special from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.), that's certainly doable as well in a city as walkable as Philly (and projected nice dry weather in the mid-50s) and adds to the justification for making all 11 stops and indulging in the frivolity along the way. And, PhillyTapFinder.com is keeping tabs (taps?) on all the events.
The events are shaping up as the following:
Bishop's Collar for The Great Gazoo, a Shangy's spectacular.
Brauhaus Schmitz for Starkbierfest, a bevy of bocks.
Devil's Den for a Mid-Atlantic Brewery Tour limited, seasonal, & one-offs beers PA, NJ, and NY.
Johnny Brenda's for its Fifth Annual Stout Brunch, dry Irish stouts to oyster stouts to Russian imperial stouts.
Jose Pistola's for The Dual Birthday Party for Chuck Norris & Webster, half pints of kick-ass beers and photo ops with both Webster & Chick Norris.
Kite & Key for Featuring Firestone Walker, an amazing array of beers plus a few surprises.
Kraftwork for The Return of Two Brothers Brewing, 10 flavors (plus a gluten-free one) from Two Brothers Brewery.
Pub On Passyunk East for Lock, Stock, and 12 Oaken Barrels, 12 amazing oak-aged beers from barrels.
Race Street Café for Lights Out At Race Street, Scotch, Brown, and Black ales.
The Institute for Big Banging Barleywine Bonanza, 16 rare barleywines on tap.
The Sidecar Bar & Grille for IPA's Greatest Hits, IPAs and DIPAs and, who knows, maybe a TrIPA.
I don't know what else to tell you. If you can't find a beer and/or event to your liking somewhere within 100 miles of Philadelphia, either you need to read a bit more closely or I need to speak a bit more loudly. Get out there and enjoy; after this week of work and wacky weather, you probably deserve it!
But, until then, allow some enthusiasm to spill forth for this weekend's embarrassment of riches here in Philly.
Sunday, the National Constitution Center plays host to The Brewer's Plate. Do you like food? Do you like beer? Do you like people (maybe not all the time, but just go with it here)? Do you like grand venues hosting beer/food/people events?
Then The Brewer's Plate is for you. Here's a piece where I wrote about it in 2011. You know my spot in The Communities section of The Washington Times, right? Go check out the piece I put up last year about The Brewer's Plate. What I've embarrassingly found in the meantime is an unpublished piece from last year's installment. Can't imagine how in the world it slipped past me like that, but let's see if I can rectify that before this weekend.
Need more convincing? How about a few of the announced pairings? Like: Alla Spina’s mortadella hot dogs with red cabbage and pickles paired with Stoudt’s Karnival Kölsch; Cedar Point’s grilled cheese stuffed with BBQ portabella and apple slaw and Boxcar’s Mango Ginger IPA; and White Dog Café’s house-made scrapple sliders with Dogfish’s Chicory Stout.
But, to get to The Brewers's Plate, you must first navigate your way around all or some portion of the Craft Beer Express on Saturday and its stops at 11 worthy beer destinations around the city.
The weather's looking fine and if you're up for walking between all the venues (instead of a $10 all-day CBX-exclusive bus pass special from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.), that's certainly doable as well in a city as walkable as Philly (and projected nice dry weather in the mid-50s) and adds to the justification for making all 11 stops and indulging in the frivolity along the way. And, PhillyTapFinder.com is keeping tabs (taps?) on all the events.
The events are shaping up as the following:
Bishop's Collar for The Great Gazoo, a Shangy's spectacular.
Brauhaus Schmitz for Starkbierfest, a bevy of bocks.
Devil's Den for a Mid-Atlantic Brewery Tour limited, seasonal, & one-offs beers PA, NJ, and NY.
Johnny Brenda's for its Fifth Annual Stout Brunch, dry Irish stouts to oyster stouts to Russian imperial stouts.
Jose Pistola's for The Dual Birthday Party for Chuck Norris & Webster, half pints of kick-ass beers and photo ops with both Webster & Chick Norris.
Kite & Key for Featuring Firestone Walker, an amazing array of beers plus a few surprises.
Kraftwork for The Return of Two Brothers Brewing, 10 flavors (plus a gluten-free one) from Two Brothers Brewery.
Pub On Passyunk East for Lock, Stock, and 12 Oaken Barrels, 12 amazing oak-aged beers from barrels.
Race Street Café for Lights Out At Race Street, Scotch, Brown, and Black ales.
The Institute for Big Banging Barleywine Bonanza, 16 rare barleywines on tap.
The Sidecar Bar & Grille for IPA's Greatest Hits, IPAs and DIPAs and, who knows, maybe a TrIPA.
I don't know what else to tell you. If you can't find a beer and/or event to your liking somewhere within 100 miles of Philadelphia, either you need to read a bit more closely or I need to speak a bit more loudly. Get out there and enjoy; after this week of work and wacky weather, you probably deserve it!
Friday, November 09, 2012
Tomorrow: Craft Beer Bus rolls on in Philly
My unscientifically-formed impression of the Philadelphia beer scene is that outside of the mammoth Philly Beer Week each June, there may be no more anticipated display of Philadelphia beer riches than at the Craft Beer Express.
It has grown into a twice annual, one-day "event" of twelve events held across Center City Philadelphia and its border neighborhoods. A bus connects all of the establishments, transporting attendees who pay $10 for an unlimited number of rides for nine hours.
It's quite a spectacle, if you haven't seen it first-hand in the past.
Here's a rundown of each event during the fall installment of Craft Beer Express 2012, occurring tomorrow, November 10.
Kraftwork
541 East Girard Avenue
(215) 739-1700
kraftworkbar.com
"Great Taste of the Midwest"
Sexy beers from sexy states including all of your favorites from Bells, Founders, Jolly Pumpkin, Goose Island, New Holland, Two Brothers, Great Lakes, and more!
Johnny Brenda's
1201 Frankford Avenue
(215) 739-9684
johnnybrendas.com/event/173713
"Wet Hop Rodeo and Ranchero Brunch"
It's our 4th Annual Wet Hop Rodeo, a round-up of local and national wet hopped beers. Come celebrate the awesome-ness that is fresh-hopped beer! We will be kicking the day off with Ranchero Brunch from 11am-3:30pm featuring huevos rancheros, cowboy steak & eggs, and chilaquiles among other brunchly delights. Fresh hopped beers will be pouring all day until they kick.
Standard Tap
901 North 2nd Street
(215) 238-0630
news.standardtap.com.s86406.gridserver.com/?p=792
"Imperial Pageant & Huntsman's Brunch"
Magnificent Russian Imperial Stouts, Massive Pale Ales, and Powerful Pilsners command your respect. Too rich for your blood? A selection of Session beers is also available for the Peasantry. Brunch features game and smoked fish victuals. Starts at 11 a.m.
The Institute
549 North 12th Street
(267) 318-7772
institutebar.com/CBX--Craft-Beer-Express-.html
"Stouts and Porters"
Bishop's Collar
2349 Fairmount Avenue
(215) 765-1616
thecollar.us
"We're Raiding Wiggins' Fridge"
Origlio Beverage tap take-over.
Kite & Key
1836 Callowhill Street
(215) 568-1818
thekiteandkey.com/wp/?tribe_events=craft-beer-express-fall-session
"Tröegs & Victory Tap Takeover"
The event name says it all!
Jose Pistola's
263 South 15th Street
(215) 545-4101
josepistolas.com
Stay Tuned for Event Details!
The Sidecar
2201 Christian Street
(215) 732-3429
thesidecarbar.com
"Green Flash"
Delicious beers on tap from Green Flash Brewing out of San Diego, CA.
Pub on Passyunk East
1501 East Passyunk Avenue
(215) 755-5125
pubonpassyunkeastblog.blogspot.com
"Sweets & Sours"
The P.O.P.E. will have 14 exciting sour beers on draft in collaboration with East Passyunk neighbor, Ms. Goody Cupcake. We will be selling on premises her delicious & freshly made signature Truffles, pumpkin spice moonpies and debuting a unique, delicately-made cupcake infused with Russian River's Supplication.
Devil's Den
1148 South 11th Street
(215) 339-0855
devilsdenphilly.com/our-events
Gypsy Brewers
Gypsy Brewing Day featuring Beers from Evil Twin, Stillwater Artisanal Ales, Mikkeller & Omnipollo. Draft list coming soon.
Brauhaus Schmitz
718 South Street
(267) 909-8814
brauhausschmitz.com
Fatherland Knows Best
The best german beers available in 15 different styles. From kolsch to kellerbier, Dunkel to doppelbocks.
Race St. Café
208 Race Street
(215) 627-6181
racestreetcafe.net/ordereze/1000/Page.aspx
A Festivus For The Rest Of Us
Our annual celebration of Seasonal and Christmas Beers. We will be hosting Megan Maguire of Ommegang and Suzy Woods from Allagash. These Girls will be doing double duty as they spin records and represent their beers. There may also be an official airing of grievances.
It has grown into a twice annual, one-day "event" of twelve events held across Center City Philadelphia and its border neighborhoods. A bus connects all of the establishments, transporting attendees who pay $10 for an unlimited number of rides for nine hours.
It's quite a spectacle, if you haven't seen it first-hand in the past.
Here's a rundown of each event during the fall installment of Craft Beer Express 2012, occurring tomorrow, November 10.
Kraftwork
541 East Girard Avenue
(215) 739-1700
kraftworkbar.com
"Great Taste of the Midwest"
Sexy beers from sexy states including all of your favorites from Bells, Founders, Jolly Pumpkin, Goose Island, New Holland, Two Brothers, Great Lakes, and more!
Johnny Brenda's
1201 Frankford Avenue
(215) 739-9684
johnnybrendas.com/event/173713
"Wet Hop Rodeo and Ranchero Brunch"
It's our 4th Annual Wet Hop Rodeo, a round-up of local and national wet hopped beers. Come celebrate the awesome-ness that is fresh-hopped beer! We will be kicking the day off with Ranchero Brunch from 11am-3:30pm featuring huevos rancheros, cowboy steak & eggs, and chilaquiles among other brunchly delights. Fresh hopped beers will be pouring all day until they kick.
Standard Tap
901 North 2nd Street
(215) 238-0630
news.standardtap.com.s86406.gridserver.com/?p=792
"Imperial Pageant & Huntsman's Brunch"
Magnificent Russian Imperial Stouts, Massive Pale Ales, and Powerful Pilsners command your respect. Too rich for your blood? A selection of Session beers is also available for the Peasantry. Brunch features game and smoked fish victuals. Starts at 11 a.m.
The Institute
549 North 12th Street
(267) 318-7772
institutebar.com/CBX--Craft-Beer-Express-.html
"Stouts and Porters"
Bishop's Collar
2349 Fairmount Avenue
(215) 765-1616
thecollar.us
"We're Raiding Wiggins' Fridge"
Origlio Beverage tap take-over.
Kite & Key
1836 Callowhill Street
(215) 568-1818
thekiteandkey.com/wp/?tribe_events=craft-beer-express-fall-session
"Tröegs & Victory Tap Takeover"
The event name says it all!
Jose Pistola's
263 South 15th Street
(215) 545-4101
josepistolas.com
Stay Tuned for Event Details!
The Sidecar
2201 Christian Street
(215) 732-3429
thesidecarbar.com
"Green Flash"
Delicious beers on tap from Green Flash Brewing out of San Diego, CA.
Pub on Passyunk East
1501 East Passyunk Avenue
(215) 755-5125
pubonpassyunkeastblog.blogspot.com
"Sweets & Sours"
The P.O.P.E. will have 14 exciting sour beers on draft in collaboration with East Passyunk neighbor, Ms. Goody Cupcake. We will be selling on premises her delicious & freshly made signature Truffles, pumpkin spice moonpies and debuting a unique, delicately-made cupcake infused with Russian River's Supplication.
Devil's Den
1148 South 11th Street
(215) 339-0855
devilsdenphilly.com/our-events
Gypsy Brewers
Gypsy Brewing Day featuring Beers from Evil Twin, Stillwater Artisanal Ales, Mikkeller & Omnipollo. Draft list coming soon.
Brauhaus Schmitz
718 South Street
(267) 909-8814
brauhausschmitz.com
Fatherland Knows Best
The best german beers available in 15 different styles. From kolsch to kellerbier, Dunkel to doppelbocks.
Race St. Café
208 Race Street
(215) 627-6181
racestreetcafe.net/ordereze/1000/Page.aspx
A Festivus For The Rest Of Us
Our annual celebration of Seasonal and Christmas Beers. We will be hosting Megan Maguire of Ommegang and Suzy Woods from Allagash. These Girls will be doing double duty as they spin records and represent their beers. There may also be an official airing of grievances.
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Craft Beer Express rolls into March
This Craft Beer Express really doesn't need much help from me anymore. This thing has grown so wildly popular that there are now two installments per year, mkaing it a good thing that it was broken apart from Philly Beer Week.
Here's a quick synopsis from its website. Enjoy!
Kraftwork
541 East Girard Avenue
(215) 739-1700
Gettin' Loose with Goose Island, from Chicago, IL
We’ll be lining the taps with 7 to 10 of Goose Island’s flagship barrel series! This Midway Giant is not to be missed on your tasting journey. Starting with Brunch – opening at 10:30 am.
Johnny Brenda's
1201 Frankford Avenue
(215) 739-9684
Back for the 4th year! Starts at 11am! Brunch served from 11-3:30. Stouts on tap all day and evening! We will have an awesome Full Irish Breakfast on the menu in addition to our regular brunch menu, plus a Smorgasbord, and an array of delicious oysters!
Standard Tap
901 North 2nd Street
(215) 238-0630
Big Wood Weekend
Wake up to our 2-day celebration of wood- smoked and barrel-aged beers!
The Institute
549 North 12th Street
(267) 318-7772
3rd Annual Barleywine Bonanza
Get your hands on 10 of the most highly sought after barleywines out there!
Bishop's Collar
2349 Fairmount Avenue
(215) 765-1616
Six Point Brewing Company
Featuring Jersey Dan "Cornelius" spinning tunes and a complete tap take-over with a firkin or two from Six Point Brewing.
Kite & Key
1836 Callowhill Street
(215) 568-1818
A Change of Events with Firestone Walker
Firestone Walker has decided to ship out to the Kite & Key an AMAZING array of beers!! You CAN NOT MISS THIS!! We will guarantee this may be your only chance to try it!!! We cannot divulge the tap list yet, but you will be thrilled!!
Jose Pistola's
263 South 15th Street
(215) 545-4101
Chuck Norris Day
In Honor of Chuck Norris' birthday we tried to tie craft beer to Chuck Norris. We soon realized that chuck Norris won't be tied to anything. We then decided it would be best for everyone involved if we just poured all bad ass beers with bad ass names. Beers include iron fist gauntlet, clown shoes eagle claw fist, evil twins yin and yang, dark horse Scotty karate, and a firkin of yards brawler dry hopped with Sirachi Hops.
The Sidecar
2201 Christian Street
(215) 732-3429
IPA's Greatest Hits - Volume III
Around the World in three whole days, Sidecar brings you the best IPA and DIPA offerings from around the globe – and we’re lining the “Lucky 13” with an individual line up each day, 36-40 total…maybe even a firkin or two. HOP HEADS UNITE! Details to come…mark the date and the stop in SWCC!
Pub on Passyunk East
1501 East Passyunk Avenue
(215) 755-5125
POPE visits Colorado
Hosting beers from the rockies including Avery, Left Hand and many more.
Devil's Den
1148 South 11th Street
(215) 339-0855
Stop out for the Spring Craft Beer Express and try some of local beer guy, Cameron Saunders', favorite beers. Tap list to include Bell's Special Cream Stout, Avery Mephistopheles, Moylans Hopsickle, Southern Tier Oak Aged Pumpking and what ever else he wants. You have seen him in Philly Beer Scene Magazine now meet him in person!
Brauhaus Schmitz
718 South Street
(267) 909-8814
Was ist Das? 10 German beers you never heard of.... Seriously most of these beers have never been poured in Philly before.
Race St. Cafe
208 Race Street
(215) 627-6181
Winter Wrap Up
Have one last rendezvous with all of your favorite bocks, browns and barleywines before you have to kiss them goodbye for the next 6 months.
Here's a quick synopsis from its website. Enjoy!
Kraftwork
541 East Girard Avenue
(215) 739-1700
Gettin' Loose with Goose Island, from Chicago, IL
We’ll be lining the taps with 7 to 10 of Goose Island’s flagship barrel series! This Midway Giant is not to be missed on your tasting journey. Starting with Brunch – opening at 10:30 am.
Johnny Brenda's
1201 Frankford Avenue
(215) 739-9684
Back for the 4th year! Starts at 11am! Brunch served from 11-3:30. Stouts on tap all day and evening! We will have an awesome Full Irish Breakfast on the menu in addition to our regular brunch menu, plus a Smorgasbord, and an array of delicious oysters!
Standard Tap
901 North 2nd Street
(215) 238-0630
Big Wood Weekend
Wake up to our 2-day celebration of wood- smoked and barrel-aged beers!
The Institute
549 North 12th Street
(267) 318-7772
3rd Annual Barleywine Bonanza
Get your hands on 10 of the most highly sought after barleywines out there!
Bishop's Collar
2349 Fairmount Avenue
(215) 765-1616
Six Point Brewing Company
Featuring Jersey Dan "Cornelius" spinning tunes and a complete tap take-over with a firkin or two from Six Point Brewing.
Kite & Key
1836 Callowhill Street
(215) 568-1818
A Change of Events with Firestone Walker
Firestone Walker has decided to ship out to the Kite & Key an AMAZING array of beers!! You CAN NOT MISS THIS!! We will guarantee this may be your only chance to try it!!! We cannot divulge the tap list yet, but you will be thrilled!!
Jose Pistola's
263 South 15th Street
(215) 545-4101
Chuck Norris Day
In Honor of Chuck Norris' birthday we tried to tie craft beer to Chuck Norris. We soon realized that chuck Norris won't be tied to anything. We then decided it would be best for everyone involved if we just poured all bad ass beers with bad ass names. Beers include iron fist gauntlet, clown shoes eagle claw fist, evil twins yin and yang, dark horse Scotty karate, and a firkin of yards brawler dry hopped with Sirachi Hops.
The Sidecar
2201 Christian Street
(215) 732-3429
IPA's Greatest Hits - Volume III
Around the World in three whole days, Sidecar brings you the best IPA and DIPA offerings from around the globe – and we’re lining the “Lucky 13” with an individual line up each day, 36-40 total…maybe even a firkin or two. HOP HEADS UNITE! Details to come…mark the date and the stop in SWCC!
Pub on Passyunk East
1501 East Passyunk Avenue
(215) 755-5125
POPE visits Colorado
Hosting beers from the rockies including Avery, Left Hand and many more.
Devil's Den
1148 South 11th Street
(215) 339-0855
Stop out for the Spring Craft Beer Express and try some of local beer guy, Cameron Saunders', favorite beers. Tap list to include Bell's Special Cream Stout, Avery Mephistopheles, Moylans Hopsickle, Southern Tier Oak Aged Pumpking and what ever else he wants. You have seen him in Philly Beer Scene Magazine now meet him in person!
Brauhaus Schmitz
718 South Street
(267) 909-8814
Was ist Das? 10 German beers you never heard of.... Seriously most of these beers have never been poured in Philly before.
Race St. Cafe
208 Race Street
(215) 627-6181
Winter Wrap Up
Have one last rendezvous with all of your favorite bocks, browns and barleywines before you have to kiss them goodbye for the next 6 months.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Craft Beer Express, Twitter, and the catchall whatnot
Do you follow me on The Twitter? I wouldn't blame you if you don't. After all, if I didn't do what I do, I probably would not either. I'm not helping my case here, am I?
But, when circumstances present them as they did today, Twitter does (gulp) seem to be an acceptable way of communicating. It's been interesting in the almost 4 years that I've been on Twitter to see The Brew Lounge's list of "followers" grow. And, as it's grown I've seen the list, from what I can tell, grow into a largely different group than reads the traditional website and Facebook.
So, as my computer at home has nearly exited this earthly life and I was setting off to try and enjoy Craft Beer Express rather than primarily "working" it, I opted to leave the big-boy-camera and other baggage to weigh me down at home.
What the first part of the last paragraph suggests is that until I replace the home computer, I won't be able to upload pictures and do any real, honest-to-goodness writing.
Enter The Twitter.
Craft Beer Express, Nov '11
I set off on the train armed with nothing but internet access and photography via my iPhone. I love my smartphone as many of you do as well. But, this would be cutting some new ground for The Brew Lounge.
This would be the first time I attempted to cover anything only over Twitter...and while on-the-go. I had Twitter usernames for linking and hashtags stowed away in my noggin.
Don't get me wrong; I'm still not a Twittering fool. But, I did post a dozen or so Tweets with accompanying pictures.
The iPhone takes a decent photo and the new OS does come with capabilities to do more picture editing on the fly within the photo software.
And for someone that tends to go on and on with these word things, a little bit of 140-character control could be a fine thing, I suppose.
Johnny Brenda's
I hit up Johnny Brenda's first for a brunch that no one who is serious about beer and food should ever miss. On this day it was the Wet Hop Rodeo which meant all sorts for fresh/wet hop/harvest beers, accompanied by some fine food out of the kitchen, and some country/western on the turntable. Yup, that's right. Banjo-picking music on a turntable, with a DJ, in Philly. That doesn't happen often, I'm sure.
Oh, the food...oh my, yes, the food. Big ups to co-owner William Reed for steering me into the Smoked Pork Hash. A wonderful pile of potatoes and pork, covered by two over-easy eggs. The Yards Cerebus went nicely with this dish and made it on to my best-of list for the day.
I could've sat there and listened to banjos and plaintive wailing and drank from the stellar beer list all day.
Jose Pistola's
From there, it was the El back across town to meet up at Jose Pistola's with a group of friends that were attempting to do the whole bus route thing.
Organizers reported over 1,000 bus passes being sold. Attendees that I spoke with reported the buses being more efficiently run than ever in the past. I'd like to see this type of bus arrangement organized for Philly Beer Week 2012. I know it was something discussed back in '08, but never seemed to come to successful fruition.
After a quick trip around City Hall to see what all this Occupy mess is about (much cleaner and organized than many would have you believe, but this isn't a political forum; just sayin' what I'm seein'), I headed down 15th Street to find owners Joe and Casey holding court along with a funk trio and a bevy of great beer.
I could have stayed here all day as well; go figure.
I was pretty well filled up from the brunch at Johnny Brenda's that it didn't make much sense to get into the funky cheeses at Pistola's. But, the funky beers? That was a different story.
Ah, remember the quaint old days when Russian River beers would disappear in the half-blink of an eye? I get there 4 hours after opening and they were still pouring Supplication (one of my absolute faves from this northern California giant) and Consecration (not too shabby either, y'think?).
Temptation was kicked, but all that meant was a second glass of Supplication. Passed it around the table since no one else was dabbling in it and all I saw was a bunch of smiles and generally favorable reactions. Even from my stalwart Miller Lite drinking buddy, Kelley ;-)
Brauhaus Schmitz
Then I embarked on a much-needed mile-long walk (that pork hash was still hanging around!) with good beer peeps David and Sarah where we got into the subject no one can yet stop talking about: Penn State football. It's great when we can all agree (in this case, it was agreement that the whole story stinks from every angle and that Joe-Pa may be legendary in the sense of winning a lot of football games but after being a part of a (alleged) 15 year cover-up of some of the most heinous crimes imaginable (folks, that's a whole third of his revered coaching career), he can no longer be seen as a legendary role model, even in spite of all the other good work he has done; but, this isn't a socio-political column, just sayin' what I'm feelin').
We arrived at Brauhaus Schmitz in between buses, so it wasn't too difficult to get our first beer lined up and a seat on the bench.
After a couple of Tweets, owner Doug Hager found me and we ended up chatting for a quite a while. He mentioned in a follow-up Tweet of his own yesterday, that Saturday was the best business day of his restaurant's life.
Here's a guy with a lot going on. Baby on the way. Expansion plans (which sound very cool, btw. Let me see if I can dig up some more electronic details that I can share with you. Think of it has a back room beer garden with some extra special taps). Christmas Village (moved to Love Park this year, no connection to Occupy Philly, btw). Springtime Germany trip. And, one more thing that I can't talk about publicly yet, but think of it as very good exposure for his business.
Oh, and a beer from Brauhaus Schmitz also made the best-of list for the day: Duck Rabbit Doppelbock. So smooth, so rich, so delicious. They don't call themselves the "dark beer specialists" for nothing.
Guess what? I could have stayed here all night as well. I almost tried, as it was my longest stay of the day.
Race Street Café
From there it was on to Race Street Café, from where Joel Armato from New Holland (he's not a doctor, but he plays one in the beer world) had already taken off for the wilds of East Passyunk Avenue.
That didn't stop me, however, from adding Race Street Café to the list of first-time stops for me on this particular Saturday. Sad to say, though, it was a list of only one.
Another best beer of the day award went here to New Holland's funky Golden Cap Saison.
Cozy place that I could envision myself at quite a bit if I lived in the neighborhood.
One more beer
Before catching the train, a Yards IPA at The Irish Pub at 20th Street made it on to my Craft Beer Express roster, though the Pub is from the CBX. It's been quite a few years since I've last stepped in here, and in for a brief 20 or so minutes, it felt like those "old days" again.
Oops, did I say last beer? Well, back to one of my first Tweets of the day: " When #CBXPhilly starts/ends with train at 30th Street Station, Bridgewater's is there for you--Fade To Black #FTW http://twitter.com/brewlounge/status/135421317175447552/photo/1 "
Yes, I had 12 minutes until my train and already had ticket in hand. So, finally I was able to put Left Hand Dan Conway's opinion to the test. Fade to Black, a Pepper Porter. Yes, as awesome as he described when I bumped into him at Exton Beverage while he was making suburban rounds last month. You should find this beer, if you already have not. I'd like to find this in bottles, if that's possible.
There you have it. Craft Beer Express by iPhone and Twitter (with a wrap-up here and a few more words, for those of you that like that sort of thing).
What say you? Do you like The Twitter? Or perhaps better asked: Do you use The Twitter? And, would you like to see me doing more of the abbreviated event coverage using Twitter? I'm not going anti-social with my head down tapping away at my phone and acting like I'm paying attention to you while I'm on Twitter, Untappd, FourSquare, Facebook, email (what's that?!), BA, RB, etc etc....you know who you are, unless you're in denial. But, I will attempt to do more social media stuff while out-n-about if that's the kind of thing you guys dig.
Or, please also feel free to tell me to go stick my head up Twitter if you absolutely loathe this sort of idea. I'd like all the feedback, not just the positive.
But, when circumstances present them as they did today, Twitter does (gulp) seem to be an acceptable way of communicating. It's been interesting in the almost 4 years that I've been on Twitter to see The Brew Lounge's list of "followers" grow. And, as it's grown I've seen the list, from what I can tell, grow into a largely different group than reads the traditional website and Facebook.
So, as my computer at home has nearly exited this earthly life and I was setting off to try and enjoy Craft Beer Express rather than primarily "working" it, I opted to leave the big-boy-camera and other baggage to weigh me down at home.
What the first part of the last paragraph suggests is that until I replace the home computer, I won't be able to upload pictures and do any real, honest-to-goodness writing.
Enter The Twitter.
Craft Beer Express, Nov '11
I set off on the train armed with nothing but internet access and photography via my iPhone. I love my smartphone as many of you do as well. But, this would be cutting some new ground for The Brew Lounge.
This would be the first time I attempted to cover anything only over Twitter...and while on-the-go. I had Twitter usernames for linking and hashtags stowed away in my noggin.
Don't get me wrong; I'm still not a Twittering fool. But, I did post a dozen or so Tweets with accompanying pictures.
The iPhone takes a decent photo and the new OS does come with capabilities to do more picture editing on the fly within the photo software.
And for someone that tends to go on and on with these word things, a little bit of 140-character control could be a fine thing, I suppose.
Johnny Brenda's
I hit up Johnny Brenda's first for a brunch that no one who is serious about beer and food should ever miss. On this day it was the Wet Hop Rodeo which meant all sorts for fresh/wet hop/harvest beers, accompanied by some fine food out of the kitchen, and some country/western on the turntable. Yup, that's right. Banjo-picking music on a turntable, with a DJ, in Philly. That doesn't happen often, I'm sure.
Oh, the food...oh my, yes, the food. Big ups to co-owner William Reed for steering me into the Smoked Pork Hash. A wonderful pile of potatoes and pork, covered by two over-easy eggs. The Yards Cerebus went nicely with this dish and made it on to my best-of list for the day.
I could've sat there and listened to banjos and plaintive wailing and drank from the stellar beer list all day.
Jose Pistola's
From there, it was the El back across town to meet up at Jose Pistola's with a group of friends that were attempting to do the whole bus route thing.
Organizers reported over 1,000 bus passes being sold. Attendees that I spoke with reported the buses being more efficiently run than ever in the past. I'd like to see this type of bus arrangement organized for Philly Beer Week 2012. I know it was something discussed back in '08, but never seemed to come to successful fruition.
After a quick trip around City Hall to see what all this Occupy mess is about (much cleaner and organized than many would have you believe, but this isn't a political forum; just sayin' what I'm seein'), I headed down 15th Street to find owners Joe and Casey holding court along with a funk trio and a bevy of great beer.
I could have stayed here all day as well; go figure.
I was pretty well filled up from the brunch at Johnny Brenda's that it didn't make much sense to get into the funky cheeses at Pistola's. But, the funky beers? That was a different story.
Ah, remember the quaint old days when Russian River beers would disappear in the half-blink of an eye? I get there 4 hours after opening and they were still pouring Supplication (one of my absolute faves from this northern California giant) and Consecration (not too shabby either, y'think?).
Temptation was kicked, but all that meant was a second glass of Supplication. Passed it around the table since no one else was dabbling in it and all I saw was a bunch of smiles and generally favorable reactions. Even from my stalwart Miller Lite drinking buddy, Kelley ;-)
Brauhaus Schmitz
Then I embarked on a much-needed mile-long walk (that pork hash was still hanging around!) with good beer peeps David and Sarah where we got into the subject no one can yet stop talking about: Penn State football. It's great when we can all agree (in this case, it was agreement that the whole story stinks from every angle and that Joe-Pa may be legendary in the sense of winning a lot of football games but after being a part of a (alleged) 15 year cover-up of some of the most heinous crimes imaginable (folks, that's a whole third of his revered coaching career), he can no longer be seen as a legendary role model, even in spite of all the other good work he has done; but, this isn't a socio-political column, just sayin' what I'm feelin').
We arrived at Brauhaus Schmitz in between buses, so it wasn't too difficult to get our first beer lined up and a seat on the bench.
After a couple of Tweets, owner Doug Hager found me and we ended up chatting for a quite a while. He mentioned in a follow-up Tweet of his own yesterday, that Saturday was the best business day of his restaurant's life.
Here's a guy with a lot going on. Baby on the way. Expansion plans (which sound very cool, btw. Let me see if I can dig up some more electronic details that I can share with you. Think of it has a back room beer garden with some extra special taps). Christmas Village (moved to Love Park this year, no connection to Occupy Philly, btw). Springtime Germany trip. And, one more thing that I can't talk about publicly yet, but think of it as very good exposure for his business.
Oh, and a beer from Brauhaus Schmitz also made the best-of list for the day: Duck Rabbit Doppelbock. So smooth, so rich, so delicious. They don't call themselves the "dark beer specialists" for nothing.
Guess what? I could have stayed here all night as well. I almost tried, as it was my longest stay of the day.
Race Street Café
From there it was on to Race Street Café, from where Joel Armato from New Holland (he's not a doctor, but he plays one in the beer world) had already taken off for the wilds of East Passyunk Avenue.
That didn't stop me, however, from adding Race Street Café to the list of first-time stops for me on this particular Saturday. Sad to say, though, it was a list of only one.
Another best beer of the day award went here to New Holland's funky Golden Cap Saison.
Cozy place that I could envision myself at quite a bit if I lived in the neighborhood.
One more beer
Before catching the train, a Yards IPA at The Irish Pub at 20th Street made it on to my Craft Beer Express roster, though the Pub is from the CBX. It's been quite a few years since I've last stepped in here, and in for a brief 20 or so minutes, it felt like those "old days" again.
Oops, did I say last beer? Well, back to one of my first Tweets of the day: " When #CBXPhilly starts/ends with train at 30th Street Station, Bridgewater's is there for you--Fade To Black #FTW http://twitter.com/brewlounge/status/135421317175447552/photo/1 "
Yes, I had 12 minutes until my train and already had ticket in hand. So, finally I was able to put Left Hand Dan Conway's opinion to the test. Fade to Black, a Pepper Porter. Yes, as awesome as he described when I bumped into him at Exton Beverage while he was making suburban rounds last month. You should find this beer, if you already have not. I'd like to find this in bottles, if that's possible.
There you have it. Craft Beer Express by iPhone and Twitter (with a wrap-up here and a few more words, for those of you that like that sort of thing).
What say you? Do you like The Twitter? Or perhaps better asked: Do you use The Twitter? And, would you like to see me doing more of the abbreviated event coverage using Twitter? I'm not going anti-social with my head down tapping away at my phone and acting like I'm paying attention to you while I'm on Twitter, Untappd, FourSquare, Facebook, email (what's that?!), BA, RB, etc etc....you know who you are, unless you're in denial. But, I will attempt to do more social media stuff while out-n-about if that's the kind of thing you guys dig.
Or, please also feel free to tell me to go stick my head up Twitter if you absolutely loathe this sort of idea. I'd like all the feedback, not just the positive.
Monday, November 07, 2011
All aboard the Craft Beer Express, Nov. 12, 2011
The wildly popular — just looking at the lineup of fun events will tell you why and all you need to know — Craft Beer Express returns this coming Saturday, November 12 in Philadelphia.
There's no set order, just 10 hours of fun-filled beer events at a dozen of the city's best beer joints. You can show up at 1, 2, or all 12 bars and partake in the fun.
The more you do and the longer you stay, the more sense it will make to take advantage of the bus that will link all the venues together.
An unlimited number of rides throughout the day will set you back an easy $10 and can be purchased online or in-person at any of the participating bars. The bus will run approximately every 25 minutes.
If you can only swoop in for a couple of hours and want to park only once, consider visiting any of the following neighborhoods and watch the buses come to you:
Fishtown/Northern Liberties
- consider parking in the area of The Piazza at 2nd and Germantown or taking SEPTA's El (blue line) to either the Spring Garden or Girard stop
Kraftwork, 541 East Girard Avenue
Event Name: "Nitro"
~ Got gas? Kraftwork has gone all "nitro"! We have asked some of our favorite breweries to turn up the gas and send some of their brews in "nitro" form.
Johnny Brenda's, 1201 Frankford Avenue
Event Name: 3rd Annual Wet Hop Rodeo and Rancheros Brunch
~ Join us for our 3rd Annual Wet Hop Rodeo, a round-up of local and national wet hopped beers. Come celebrate the awesome-ness that is fresh-hopped beer! We will be kicking the day off with Ranchero Brunch from 11am-3:30pm featuring huevos rancheros, cowboy steak & eggs, and chilaquiles among other brunchly delights. The charming and handsome, Ben Dickey of Blood Feathers, will be spinning records to make you hop-along!
Standard Tap , 901 North 2nd Street
Event Name: Drink Like an Egyptian
~ A special event featuring selections from Dogfish Head Brewery's Ancient Ale Series. Available in flights so you can enjoy them all!
Fairmount/Spring Garden
- consider parking in the area of CCP at 18th and Spring Garden or taking SEPTA's Broad Street Line to either the Race/Vine, Spring Garden, or Fairmount stop
The Institute, 549 North 12th Street
Event Name: 2nd Annual Stout & Porter Event
~ Featuring all stouts and porters from Shangy's - The Beer Authority.
Bishop's Collar, 2349 Fairmount Avenue
Event Name: Bell's Brewing
~ 12 beers from Bell's Brewing, including a firkin!
Kite & Key, 1836 Callowhill Street
Event Name: Cooperstown Invades the Kite & Key!
~ Ommegang will line the taps for the November edition of the CBX. Join us for the finest Belgian Style Brewing this side of the Atlantic.
Center City
- consider parking in the area south of Rittenhouse Square (admittedly, this is a healthy walk between these two places) or taking SEPTA's Broad Street Line to the Lombard/South stop
Jose Pistola's, 263 South 15th Street
Event Name: Funky Ass Shit!
~ Funky cheeses. Sour beers from Russian River, Boon, and more. Live funk bands featuring The Blue Crunk. Brass Monkey cocktails.
The Sidecar, 2201 Christian Street
Event Name: Founders Brewing
~ A day with Founders Brewing from Grand Rapids, Michigan. All the year round favorites will be flowing along with some super duper rarities!
East Passyunk/Bella Vista/South Street
- consider parking in the Italian Market area at 9th and Washington or taking SEPTA's Broad Street Line to either the Lombard/South, Ellsworth/Federal, or Tasker/Morris stop
Pub on Passyunk East, 1501 East Passyunk Avenue
Event Name: Splashing Pumpkins
~ Dear Pilgrims, The P.O.P.E. will be celebrating our favorite season with a wide array of fall seasonal beers including Pumpkins, Ciders and Octoberfests on draft.
Devil's Den, 1148 South 11th Street
Event Name: Bella Vista Beer Bash
~ Fall edition. ALL 16 taps, plus the handpump will be taken over with quality fall beers, directly from Bella Vista.
Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Event Name: The Bock-It List
~ 10 doppelbock beers to drink before you die.
Old City
- consider parking in the area of the National Constitution Center or taking SEPTA's El (blue line) to 2nd and Market
Race St. Cafe, 208 Race Street
Event Name: Midwest Brewery Battle
~ Great Lakes Brewing Company will be squaring off against New Holland Brewing. Mark Weinmann, from Great Lakes, will pit a rare offering from their brew pub and other limited release beers against Joel Armato from New Holland brewing featuring an indulgent list of one-offs.
If you like to follow along with updated tap lists online, be sure to check out PhillyTapFinder.com
There's no set order, just 10 hours of fun-filled beer events at a dozen of the city's best beer joints. You can show up at 1, 2, or all 12 bars and partake in the fun.
The more you do and the longer you stay, the more sense it will make to take advantage of the bus that will link all the venues together.
An unlimited number of rides throughout the day will set you back an easy $10 and can be purchased online or in-person at any of the participating bars. The bus will run approximately every 25 minutes.
If you can only swoop in for a couple of hours and want to park only once, consider visiting any of the following neighborhoods and watch the buses come to you:
Fishtown/Northern Liberties
- consider parking in the area of The Piazza at 2nd and Germantown or taking SEPTA's El (blue line) to either the Spring Garden or Girard stop
Kraftwork, 541 East Girard Avenue
Event Name: "Nitro"
~ Got gas? Kraftwork has gone all "nitro"! We have asked some of our favorite breweries to turn up the gas and send some of their brews in "nitro" form.
Johnny Brenda's, 1201 Frankford Avenue
Event Name: 3rd Annual Wet Hop Rodeo and Rancheros Brunch
~ Join us for our 3rd Annual Wet Hop Rodeo, a round-up of local and national wet hopped beers. Come celebrate the awesome-ness that is fresh-hopped beer! We will be kicking the day off with Ranchero Brunch from 11am-3:30pm featuring huevos rancheros, cowboy steak & eggs, and chilaquiles among other brunchly delights. The charming and handsome, Ben Dickey of Blood Feathers, will be spinning records to make you hop-along!
Standard Tap , 901 North 2nd Street
Event Name: Drink Like an Egyptian
~ A special event featuring selections from Dogfish Head Brewery's Ancient Ale Series. Available in flights so you can enjoy them all!
Fairmount/Spring Garden
- consider parking in the area of CCP at 18th and Spring Garden or taking SEPTA's Broad Street Line to either the Race/Vine, Spring Garden, or Fairmount stop
The Institute, 549 North 12th Street
Event Name: 2nd Annual Stout & Porter Event
~ Featuring all stouts and porters from Shangy's - The Beer Authority.
Bishop's Collar, 2349 Fairmount Avenue
Event Name: Bell's Brewing
~ 12 beers from Bell's Brewing, including a firkin!
Kite & Key, 1836 Callowhill Street
Event Name: Cooperstown Invades the Kite & Key!
~ Ommegang will line the taps for the November edition of the CBX. Join us for the finest Belgian Style Brewing this side of the Atlantic.
Center City
- consider parking in the area south of Rittenhouse Square (admittedly, this is a healthy walk between these two places) or taking SEPTA's Broad Street Line to the Lombard/South stop
Jose Pistola's, 263 South 15th Street
Event Name: Funky Ass Shit!
~ Funky cheeses. Sour beers from Russian River, Boon, and more. Live funk bands featuring The Blue Crunk. Brass Monkey cocktails.
The Sidecar, 2201 Christian Street
Event Name: Founders Brewing
~ A day with Founders Brewing from Grand Rapids, Michigan. All the year round favorites will be flowing along with some super duper rarities!
East Passyunk/Bella Vista/South Street
- consider parking in the Italian Market area at 9th and Washington or taking SEPTA's Broad Street Line to either the Lombard/South, Ellsworth/Federal, or Tasker/Morris stop
Pub on Passyunk East, 1501 East Passyunk Avenue
Event Name: Splashing Pumpkins
~ Dear Pilgrims, The P.O.P.E. will be celebrating our favorite season with a wide array of fall seasonal beers including Pumpkins, Ciders and Octoberfests on draft.
Devil's Den, 1148 South 11th Street
Event Name: Bella Vista Beer Bash
~ Fall edition. ALL 16 taps, plus the handpump will be taken over with quality fall beers, directly from Bella Vista.
Brauhaus Schmitz, 718 South Street
Event Name: The Bock-It List
~ 10 doppelbock beers to drink before you die.
Old City
- consider parking in the area of the National Constitution Center or taking SEPTA's El (blue line) to 2nd and Market
Race St. Cafe, 208 Race Street
Event Name: Midwest Brewery Battle
~ Great Lakes Brewing Company will be squaring off against New Holland Brewing. Mark Weinmann, from Great Lakes, will pit a rare offering from their brew pub and other limited release beers against Joel Armato from New Holland brewing featuring an indulgent list of one-offs.
If you like to follow along with updated tap lists online, be sure to check out PhillyTapFinder.com
Monday, February 28, 2011
Craft Beer Express '11, the itinerary
The Craft Beer Express on Saturday March 12.
This certainly has turned into quite "the thing". A bevy of bars banding together and putting on a day-long set of events all tied together with continually-running shuttle buses. I know quite a few people that will be using the bus and gunning to make all 12 establishments during the 10 hour span. I will employ our normal m.o. and pick 2-4 places that look most interesting and focus on a few quality hours instead.
That reminds me: shuttle buses. Something that I wish would be orchestrated during Philly Beer Week. I seem to recall that it was attempted in the first year, but was not successfully executed. I don't believe that it has been attempted since.
Buses can be expected out front of each bar roughly every 25 minutes and a bracelet for riding the bus costs $10 per person for unlimited rides from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The events below are listed in alphabetical order and bus riders will be able to begin their pub crawl at any location.
Bishop's Collar: Pouring some amazing beers from Unibroue. Tap list will include at least the following: Blanche de Chambly; Ephemere; Maudite; Terrible; and Trois Pistoles
Brauhaus Schmitz: "Operation Imitation." The best German beers that aren’t from Germany. At least 10 local craft German-style beers on draft.
Devil's Den: West Coast Extravaganza, featuring Russian River, Stone, Lagunitas, Lost Abbey, & Port Brewing
Johnny Brenda's: The 3rd Annual Stout Brunch & Smorgasbord
Jose Pistolas: Southern Tier Brewing & Live Music
Kite & Key: Barrels Of Bell's Brewing
Kraftwork: The Bella Vista Experience. Handpicked varieties from around the world.
P.O.P.E.: "Girls Day Out." Suzy from Sly Fox, Wendy from Dogfish Head, & Megan from Ommegang
Race Street Cafe: Great Lakes Brewing featuring Great Lakes Beers on draft, giveaways, and live music.
Sidecar: Annual IPAs Greatest Hits all weekend long. The top 30 IPAs available in the commonwealth
Standard Tap: Big Wood Weekend. All things Wood, Smoked & Barrel-aged
The Institute: The Beast Of Times The Wurst Of Times. Beastly Barelywines and kick-ass hotdogs and sausages for your eating and drinking enjoyment.
This certainly has turned into quite "the thing". A bevy of bars banding together and putting on a day-long set of events all tied together with continually-running shuttle buses. I know quite a few people that will be using the bus and gunning to make all 12 establishments during the 10 hour span. I will employ our normal m.o. and pick 2-4 places that look most interesting and focus on a few quality hours instead.
That reminds me: shuttle buses. Something that I wish would be orchestrated during Philly Beer Week. I seem to recall that it was attempted in the first year, but was not successfully executed. I don't believe that it has been attempted since.
Buses can be expected out front of each bar roughly every 25 minutes and a bracelet for riding the bus costs $10 per person for unlimited rides from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The events below are listed in alphabetical order and bus riders will be able to begin their pub crawl at any location.
Bishop's Collar: Pouring some amazing beers from Unibroue. Tap list will include at least the following: Blanche de Chambly; Ephemere; Maudite; Terrible; and Trois Pistoles
Brauhaus Schmitz: "Operation Imitation." The best German beers that aren’t from Germany. At least 10 local craft German-style beers on draft.
Devil's Den: West Coast Extravaganza, featuring Russian River, Stone, Lagunitas, Lost Abbey, & Port Brewing
Johnny Brenda's: The 3rd Annual Stout Brunch & Smorgasbord
Jose Pistolas: Southern Tier Brewing & Live Music
Kite & Key: Barrels Of Bell's Brewing
Kraftwork: The Bella Vista Experience. Handpicked varieties from around the world.
P.O.P.E.: "Girls Day Out." Suzy from Sly Fox, Wendy from Dogfish Head, & Megan from Ommegang
Race Street Cafe: Great Lakes Brewing featuring Great Lakes Beers on draft, giveaways, and live music.
Sidecar: Annual IPAs Greatest Hits all weekend long. The top 30 IPAs available in the commonwealth
Standard Tap: Big Wood Weekend. All things Wood, Smoked & Barrel-aged
The Institute: The Beast Of Times The Wurst Of Times. Beastly Barelywines and kick-ass hotdogs and sausages for your eating and drinking enjoyment.
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Saturday the Thirstless-teenth
No one should go thirsty this Saturday the 13th.
This coming Saturday will be a busy day across the Philadelphia region for beer events. As you'll see with tomorrow's weekly beer calendar that I publish, there are no less than eight beer events in and around the City on Saturday, 11/13. Really, it's eighteen when you add all of the individual events that comprise the Craft Beer Express. (And, there's probably another one or two that I'm missing that I'm sure you good readers will help to fill me in on, right?)
>>> The big one is the Craft Beer Express in Philly. With 11 participating establishments and a steady flow of buses (was it 7 or 8 buses that I was told?) linking them all together, it should be a fine day. Plus, the weather should cooperate much more nicely than it did back in March during the first incarnation of this idea. Here's a quick rundown of who's doing what during the 10 hours of buses, beers, and bars. Ten dollars gets you on the bus; after that, it's PAYG at every bar along the way.
>>> Along the Delaware River at Penn's Landing's Independence Seaport Museum, Rolling Barrel Events is hosting its first annual Stout & Chowder Festival from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For a $40 admission, in their words you can expect "over ten 'Burly Beer Stations' featuring all local breweries, a special breakout session showcasing pumpkin beers, and numerous hearty soups, stews and chowders. Proceeds will also benefit the Independence Seaport Museum." >>> Back in the heart of Center City, Nodding Head is throwing 4 of their wet-hopped beers on the bar and one on the beer engine at 3 p.m. Harvest Ale on the hand pump and Wet Chinook Double IPA, X, Hoppo Marx, and BPA all on the bar top served via the lovely forces of gravity. The tasting event is PAYG. >>> Moving out from the City, first up is TJs in Paoli where they will be helping Sierra Nevada with its ongoing 30th Anniversary Celebration. All four anniversary beers are due to be on tap. Plus the Northern Hemisphere Harvest. Plus the Estate Homegrown Ale. Plus the Celebration Ale. Plus the Tumbler Autumn Brown. And, plus the Pale Ale. How's that for an all-growed-up 30 year old brewing company? This is an all-day event (and, PAYG) with nothing necessarily special planned at any given time. Just a lot of great beer (and some rather rare ones, too) served until it kicks which will be sooner for some than others, I'm sure. >>> Just a keg's throw away in Exton, The Drafting Room is conducting a seasonally-appropriate Harvest Beer event. Expect such fresh and hoppy beers from Bear Republic, Flying Dog, Founders, Great Divide, Harpoon, Philadelphia Brewing, Port Brewing, Sierra Nevada, Southern Tier, Terrapin, Tröegs, Two Brothers, Victory, and Weyerbacher. This also is a PAYG all-day affair, so come and go as you please. >>> Stretching farther to the west, downtown Reading's Canal Street Pub is hosting the 8th Brewphoria festival. Admission is $35, the event runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and you can expect a beer tasting and exhibition featuring local and regional brewers with live music being provided by The Youngers. >>> Down "south", Iron Hill's Justin Sproul and his Newark location are throwing a delightful-looking cask ale festival. It begins at noon, is PAYG, and is expected to showcase "real ale" from Iron Hill, Yards, Flying Fish, Tröegs, Sly Fox, Stewart's, and Victory. >>> And, finally, stretching the Pennsylvania's Fertile Crescent of Beer to its outer limits in Harrisburg, Pa., the Expo Hall at The State Farm Show Arena is playing host to an event called PA Flavor: A Food & Beer Expo of which I know very little but have picked up some tidbits from the Web. It lasts from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and promises up to 40 Pennsylvania breweries, 60 Pennsylvania food producers, and 20 Pennsylvania restaurants. Attendees can expect two-ounce samples of close to 100 different beers. All proceeds from PA Flavor are reported to benefit the Pennsylvania Brewers Guild. You can't do them all. I promise you. Though, if you get a hired driver, there's the ever-so-slim chance that you could pull it off. If I dared you, I'm afraid someone might try it. So get out there....forget about the yardwork, ditch the wedding (unless it's yours), call off from your weekend job. Drink a few great beers, support your local economy, be safe, and enjoy!Kraftwork: 20 Beers from B.United and the sweet sounds Damon Bennett's Jazzsoul Experience Johnny Brenda's: The Wet Hop Rodeo, A round up of local & national wet hoped beers Standard Tap: Imperial Pageant, An orgy of excess and power in a glass. The Institute: The Power Of The Darks Side, Stout & Porter event featuring Brewers & Owners Bishop's Collar: Southern Tier Invades The North East Kite & Key: A.A.A. (Almighty, Afternoon of Allagash) Jose Pistolas: Big Bold Barleywine & Live Blues Sidecar: Discoteque & Brothel, featuring Bell's Jazz series brews & The Sidecar Jazz Quartet P.O.P.E.: Dogfish Head Dominates The P.O.P.E., featuring the Randell 3.0 Devil's Den: Stockertown Beverage Supplies Sudds, special tapping of Founders Nemesis Brauhaus Schmitz: still T.B.A.
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