Go back a few decades and the concept of a craft beer may have conjured up images of failed lab experiments in your uncle's garage. In more recent times, an emerging cottage industry has brought these adventurous alcoholic beverages into the mainstream. If you're looking for some great options in local brews, try these five options for starters...
BlackRock Fine Wine and Craft Beer
Location: 343 Park Avenue
Contact: 208-538-0263 ; www.blackrockidaho.net
Specialties: Up to 30 beers and two wines on tap. BlackRock features live music, tasting events and exhibits by local artists. Also be sure to ask about the famous Chicken & Waffle Cone.
Idaho Brewing Company
Location: Corner of Trask Street and South Capital Avenue
Contact: 208-534-7232; www.idahobrewing.com
Specialties: The brewery's distribution spans across the region, including eight year-round styles plus several seasonal specials. You can get growlers to go or select from 12 beers on tap and settle into the on-site tasting room. IBC's brew house offers 18 different styles via its 10-barrel brew system. Check their calendar for live music and other events.
MarCellar's Vintage Wines & Brews
Location: 431 Park Avenue
Contact: 208-523-0503; www.marcellars.com
Specialties: It's a wine shop, craft beer store and pub all rolled into one. Can't decide on your drink of choice? Buy an assortment of single beers to find out what you like best. Call for weekly evening wine-tasting schedule.
Snow Eagle Pub and Grill
Location: 455 River Parkway
Contact: 208-557-0455; www.snoweaglebrewing.com
Specialties: Cream Ale, Snow Eagle India Pale Ale, Beaver Dick Brown Pelt American Style Brown Ale and “Floor View” Imperial IPA are just a few of Snow Eagle's refined brews. The establishment offers burgers, pizza, pasta and more. In addition, it's also the home to the Wasabi Sushi Bar. Great view of the River Walk and falls.
Tap-N-Fill Growler House and Tap Room
Location: 1494 Milligan Road
Contact: 208-524-4577; www.tapnfill.com
Specialties: Features a full line-up of popular hoppy and dark beers from Stone, Sierra Nevada, Grand Teton, Sockeye and more. Festive atmosphere with outside seating right by the pier. Saddle up, settle in and/or grab a growler to go.
