Avery Brewing Co. Tap Room

Few brewery kitchens turn out meals much beyond nachos and pizza, but Avery Brewing Co. in Boulder is an exception. With snacks, salads, sandwiches, and full entrees that source their ingredients from local farms, Avery’s food deserves as much attention as its award-winning beers.

In an expansive modern space that opened in 2015, diners have three seating options. The first an umbrella-covered outdoor area under Boulder’s blue skies. It is first-come, first-serve and dog-friendly. The second option are high-top bar tables in the downstairs tap room. A short walk up the stairs leads to a more traditional restaurant with tables and chairs for small and large parties. All areas have access to the full menu and the full tap list. Given the popularity of this spot, reservations are highly recommended for the dining rooms.

Both meat-eaters and vegetarians will find something to their liking. The menu covers the basics with twists on quality and creativity rare in most brewery restaurants. Das Pretzel is as close to authentic as any that you will find in a true German Beer garden, but swaps traditional mustard for mild and creamy nacho cheese sauce. Hook’s Cheese Board comes with three cheeses that vary in blends of cow, sheep, and goat milk. The cheeses are paired with sweet cranapple jam and tangy kimchi.

Gumbo, which can be ordered as a starter or entree, boasts just the right amount of lingering heat, its smooth broth coating an abundance of smoked chicken, crawfish, and sausage. It’s served with a square of tender, sweet cornbread. Pozole, which is mild and loaded with shredded, smoked pork, also comes with cornbread. A vegetarian-friendly Buddha Bowl combines hearty grains and lentils with pickled vegetables, earthy beets, and rich avocado coconut dressing.

No need to fear, though, if you happen to be a pub-purist when it comes to beer bites. Burgers, wings, and a Friday special of fish and chips make it impossible for anyone to walk away disappointed.