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ISM Brewing
Master Critic Review
ISM Brewing
8.3
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Happy Hour Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Group Dining Gatherings
Award-winning modern brewpub opened in December 2023 by industry veteran Ian McCall, earning two Gold Medals at the 2024 World Beer Cup within months of opening. Head Brewer Gene Wagoner crafts world-class ales and lagers while the kitchen delivers elevated American pub fare from scratch.
Must-Try Dishes:
House-Tossed Wings (Plain, Tatanka, BBQ, or Erawan), Brewery Mac & Cheese, LB Caviar (Pickled Eggs)
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: World Beer Cup Gold Medal winner with 1,500 sq ft promenade-facing patio
Who should go: Craft beer enthusiasts and groups seeking quality pub food
When to visit: Weekday lunch specials or Wing Wednesday all day
What to order: Chepedelic West Coast IPA, achiote wings, brewery mac with tri-tip
Insider tip: Join the Guild of Hoppiness for monthly four-packs and early releases
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Downtown metered street parking ($2/hr until 8pm) or Pine Avenue Garage ($8 flat after 5pm) one block north
Dress code: Casual - brewery attire perfectly fine, from t-shirts to business casual
Noise level: Moderate to lively - conversational indoors, relaxed on patio, energetic during happy hour
Weekend wait: 20-30 min for patio tables peak hours, bar seating usually available
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - walk-ins typically seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - solid options including veggie burger, salads, and appetizers like pretzel bites
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 modified options available, call ahead for best experience
Gluten-free options: Yes - GF buns available and several naturally GF items, beer options include Cali Kolsch
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual vibes - the patio offers relaxed outdoor setting with people-watching, and the brewery atmosphere keeps things low-pressure. Skip if you want intimate/romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes - reservations not required but recommended for weekend dinners (5-8pm). Bar and patio seating typically available for walk-ins, especially weekdays.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - welcome until 9pm with kids menu available. Patio is ideal for families. More adult-focused atmosphere after 9pm when it transitions to 21+.
What's the best day to visit? Wednesday for all-day wing specials, or weekday lunch for $12-14 specials. Weekend afternoons on the patio hit the sweet spot of energy without crowds.
Do they have non-alcoholic options? Yes - house-made sodas, non-alcoholic beer options, and full coffee program. Not just an afterthought for non-drinkers.
Best For
Better for: World-class craft beer (Gold Medal winning), from-scratch cooking that rivals standalone restaurants, spacious patio for groups, and legitimately great happy hour value
Skip if: You want wine selection (beer-focused), need quiet intimate dining, prefer creative/experimental food over elevated classics, or don't care about craft beer quality