Microbrewery recommendations in Cleveland?

[Tim Little]

Hi all.... I'm going to be heading out to Cleveland next week and will be staying with some microbrew afficionados in upstate NY on the way home. Thinking a growler would make a nice "hostess gift" does anyone have recommendations for which of the local microbreweries/brews is best? I hear good things about Great Lakes, but this is literally uncharted territory for me.

Thanks!

[ohiopiper]

There are a few other good ones, notably in Willoughby, just 20 minutes from Cleveland. It's called...Wait for it...The Willoughby Brewing Company.

However, Great Lakes Brewing Company is the gold standard. They put out some fantastic beers. Each season has its own beer. Couldn't tell you what it is right now, I'm waiting for St. Patrick's Day and more Conways' Irish Ale.

You don't have to go to the brewery, you can pick up four packs in most grocery stores and many have "sampler" packs with four different beers.

I'm not much for beer, but I do go out of my way to pick up some Conways' Irish Ale every Feb/Mar.

[kilted_brewer]

I echo the Great Lakes recommendation. Their Dortmunder Gold is outstanding (as are most of their beers as well). Here's what's on tap. Great Lakes is right across the street from the West Side Market, which is worth a visit, too.

I've also heard good things about Willoughby Brewing, but have never yet been. They're probably overshadowed by Great Lakes, but there's usually some decent brewers at the Chop House (Rock Bottom corporate affiliate); might be worth a visit to the bar if you're downtown on Public Square.

[Santa Kona]

The Cleveland Chop House is also very nice a bit on the pricey side.

[Zardoz]

Another vote for Great Lakes Brewing Company, they do a great Porter.

[wildrover]

Great Lakes Brewery, definitely.