Five stars!!! Five for the delicious Pepperoni and goat cheese pizza, five for the Lamb and potatoes, five for the chocolate brownie and creme brule desert, five for the wine and beer, and five for the great service even know she was busting her ass!! 2nd time here and can't wait to go back, everything has perfect taste. They have a variety to choose from, they also have patio seating! This is great place to have amazing food and still have a good time with your family and friends or a casual date night!! The best part was it was only $62 for all food!! Prices are reasonable!! I'm all about good food and I highly recommend this place!
(5)
Jules K.
Yeah. So. I find it hard to downrate an independent brewery, but this isn't 3 solid stars, this is three because I can't give 2.5 stars. If I hadn't had a beer, it would be 2 stars because I can't give 1.5. At any rate, don't be fooled by the prices, the place is really casual, almost run down. Like many businesses in Frederick, I assume this was another restaurant before its current incarnation and BA moved in without making many changes to the dining room. Or they bought all of their furniture used. The food. It was OK. But just OK, part of it was the pricing, which suggested something better than OK, but we were hungry. So now you're like - Wait, meh interior, meh food. What about the service? So, I know waiting tables is an incredibly hard job. Both physically and mentally taxing. I really admire people who can go all day, smiling through the amount of idiocy and outright rudeness they must endure from various dimwits and creeps, without stuffing a blue plate special up a nostril or two. BUT. The service at this place, what gives? It wasn't busy, there were several empty tables and there were often members of the wait staff just sort of hanging around. But the person waiting our table made us feel really rushed to eat and get out. Also, she didn't tell us about the different prices for beer (1.50 for 5 oz) and the samplers etc. I learned about this after we'd placed our order when I heard another waiter telling the party at the table beside ours. Perhaps this is crazy talk, but in a brewery, I would have expected every waiter to talk up the suds. However, based on observation when we left, our inopportune arrival had interrupted an important conversation with some co-workers. That's faux pas we won't commit again! Call it 2 stars for the beer, 1 star for everything else. You've been warned.
(3)
Natasha P.
Went here a while ago because a friend was having a birthday dinner here. Everyone in Frederick talks about this place and I don't understand why. The fried pickles are great but that's it. Everything else was basic with little to no seasoning. I only gave it two stars because one was for the waitress she was nice the other star was for the pickles.
(2)
Sarah B.
Great building and even better food! The Quail and calamari special had interesting flavors that surprised me. I would come back more than once!!
One of my favorite spots in Frederick. For Drinking: I'm a beer lover and they make their own beer. Their beer is pretty good. Their hard alcohol menu is even better (though I generally just drool over it and order beer)/ For eating: Their food is great. Their Reuben made me fall in love. Their pizzas are interesting and delicious. I've been here in groups of varying sizes around a dozen times now, and it's been rare that anyone hasn't enjoyed their food. Atmosphere: Brewer's Alley seems to attract a pretty young partying crowd. Each to their own, but that's not my crowd, and their bar area gets so packed I don't even want to get near it. But if you eat outside, or ask for a table indoors, the ambiance is very nice.
(5)
Katie W.
This place is just okay in my opinion. Our waitress, Kay, was very enthusiastic and passionate about her job. Her service was attentive and she did talk us into getting a beer and the Mac and cheese (the star of our meal). The Macaroni and cheese is simply delicious and 5 stars, but the burger and French dip-like sandwich was just okay. Atmosphere is dingy unless outside. Says it gets local ingredients which is cool, but food is really just okay. Service was super quick and our waitress got us the Mac and cheese before our meals (we wanted it as an appetizer) even though we ordered it 5-10 minutes after placing our dinner meals in, which was great!
(3)
Ashley G.
Okay beers, but a pretty tired restaurant. You know the places where the tables will just always be a little sticky? That's Brewer's Alley: Nothing special. Also, I was there in April and they were still serving Octoberfest. No thanks!
(2)
Patt M.
We are visiting; we took our family with 3 grandchildren to dinner. We had all been here once before and had a wonderful experience. Our waitperson was friendly and personable but inefficient. The 4 adult dinners arrived along with one hamburger from the regular menu. The chicken fingers and grilled cheese from the children's menu did not arrive. When we finally called this to our waitperson' attention, the order had never been placed!!!!! Inexcusable for young children. Fortunately these girls nibbled on other's French fries and pizza while they waited. Everyone had finished eating by the time their dinners arrived. I am not sure if we will return to Brewer's Alley during our next visit. The food was good but the service very poor. Our waitperson seemed knowledgable but possibly needs more experience???
(2)
mark s.
We went for perhaps our 3rd time in a year last night. In prior visits we have had decent burgers and pizza. Last night I tried the Thursday sirloin special and 2 others had the lobster special. What a loss of an evening. The drinks (my son is a bartender so knows a bit on the subject were 1. weak (could absolutely not taste the martini) and 2. Badly made (manhattan. Moving right along the Caesar salads were terrible, under dressed and bland unappealing sights. My steak was perhaps 1/2 inch think, covered with a sauce that was too strong and I guess intended in covering up the overcooked meat (which was ordered medium rare). The lobster was "horrible" to quote my wife and "rubbery". This restaurant group did such a nice job at Acacia (now gone) and with Ayse Meze is popular, although not my favorite. I guess it's best to stick with beer and burgers/pizza at Brewers. But venturing beyond that was a big mistake for us.
(1)
Kristen H.
I've been here a few times when I venture into downtown Frederick, which is a fun up-and-coming area. There's always new restaurants popping up to try. This one has been a staple though, always providing a tasty home brewed beer selection. The last time I came here I decided to be vegetarian for the day and get the black bean burger with mushroom soup on the side. The flavoring the both the burger and soup was great, I would just say that the texture of the black bean burger needs to be more well blended and firmer. When I took a bite out of it, a third of it spewed out the other end of my burger, kind of messy to deal with. I would definitely still come back here another time for sure. I like the lively atmosphere of the bar area, always a good time!
(4)
Ali C.
I really loved my food here! I can't recall the exact name of my order but I had Salmon with a tomato risotto. It was very good. Not over cooked or undercooked which is somewhat difficult to find with Salmon and risotto. Good service and nice ambience.
(5)
Susanne A.
Comfortable brewpub food. Really good crab cakes with fresh vegetables and a huge portion of mashed potatoes. Brewed iced tea. Hamburger looked good even if ordered well done. Pasta with mussels was generous,
(3)
Sarah S.
This was a lovely place for dinner for our one night in Frederick! We got the crab dip as an appetizer to start and it was lovely, not the best I had ever had but it was a close second! I definitely recommend it if you're a crab person. My grandmother and I split the crab cake dinner and it was the perfect amount of food with veggies and mashed potatoes on the side. Grand daddy got the shrimp and grits which I was too scared to get because it said jalapeño grits but it wasn't too spicy at all it was delicious! The dinner along with a glass of wine and a great ambiance and excellent service made for a great experience!
(4)
John M.
In town for a wedding. Stopped here for lunch. Ordered the lunch special with trout. Perfection. Just sayin...
(4)
Stacie C.
"We're a brewery first," said our waiter. A good thing, considering we were there mostly for the beer and kind of for some food. With the idea that this is a brewery (and promotes itself as "the first brewery in Frederick County"), I'm not sure what atmosphere they are going for exactly. It doesn't really feel like a pub but didn't seem really inviting as a restaurant, either. Either way, I enjoyed the variety of beers. The fried pickles and margherita pizza also hit the spot. I'm torn on whether or not this is a place I'd recommend. I guess inevitably I would say if you're looking to try some good beer, check it out knowing they have decent food if you're also in the mood for bar food. But I wouldn't recommend it as a dinner-only type of place.
(3)
Amy S.
This is our go-to place when ever we have friends in town. The oysters are a favorite, though about 50% of the time they aren't shucked properly (still good flavor though). Lobster night is also a favorite. In terms of drinks if you're getting mixed drink, try to keep to the standards. Or just get beer, it's always good (they are a brewery after all). A good place if you want consistent good food for a decent price.
(4)
Beata K.
Good local restaurant/bar. Been here a few times and really like the fried pickles and the burgers ( black bean one is very good as well as the regular burger). I'd suggest getting the sweet potato fries...well worth the extra charge. We also got the wings and they were pretty good, wouldn't come here just for the wings but they're good as an app. I don't drink beer but the hubby and some friends tell me it's pretty good here. I'd give this place 3.5 stars if I could primarily because it smells fishy inside the restaurant. Sit outside if you can as it's a nice view.
(3)
T K.
Got into brewers at 910 ordered a special,,, airline chicken,,, which was supposed to have ham cheese bbq sauce,,, restaurant was maybe a quarter full. I inquired where my food was my waitress said they were busy closing the kitchen,,, that was the hold up,,,, finally at 10 ,,,, 50 minutes later finally dinner comes ,,,,, great a 2,5 ounce overcooked chicken breast with no ham no cheese like the special said. The portion was so small it looked like a pigeon breast,,, awful just awful ,,,, this place has really gone downhill if you have a choice dont go here. Lucky corner up the street rocks. Why stay open for food late if there gonna serve you garbage??? Too bad white star is closed :)
(1)
Michelle N.
Love this place! This is our go to spot when we want some great food and beer. We always come here atleast once a week. The staff are always so friendly and welcoming. Definately recommend!
(5)
Carol N.
Husband and I were in town for a friend's wedding and she recommended this place. We hit up Barley and Hops to taste their beers first and were not impressed (beer was good, spinach dip appetizer was disgusting). We were pleasantly surprised with this place, however. Good beer (I had the Two Loves Chocolate-YUMM, husband had the Three Kings Spiced Ale), not a long wait for dinner on a Friday night (20 mins), good food (but just a bit too much), great service. Our waiter was attentive and not pushy given how busy it was. And he looked a lot like Edward Norton which is always a plus. We came back with friends for a drink after the ceremony and pre-reception. Found a seat in the bar and had good service, a nice view of the busy Market Street and enjoyed some good brews. I would definitely go back next time we're in town.
(5)
Bethany E.
I was in Frederick with a friend. We decided to walk around the cute little downtown area. There are great shops and boutiques to explore. Brewers Alley is a great pub with specialty beers. We weren't in the drinking mood at the time but wanted to grab a bite to eat. There is plenty of spacious seating with indoor and outdoor options. We had started out with the Maryland Crab and Pablano Chili Cheese Dip. I couldn't get enough of this! I loved the crab pieces in this cheesy dish of heaven! I would have licked the bowl if it wasn't frowned upon! This dip is so tasty and flavorful! As Rachael Ray would say... YUM-O! For my meal I ordered the Opera House Chopped Salad. As I do at most places, I order the Cobb Salad. This might as well been a Cobb since it had the same ingredients. It was delicious! I ordered their vinaigrette on the side which also complemented the salad. The service was just ok but I always try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. You never know what is going on in their lives and I don't want to criticize. We've all had those days. All in all, this is a great place to stop in downtown Frederick. Plus it's nice there is a parking garage right behind the place!
(4)
Nicole G.
Any restaurant that can put together a table for 12 people and roll with the punches smoothly is great in my eyes! I got to sample some of the wings and the goat cheese and apple pizza. Both were great! Other friends had cocktails and beer, and even a few shooters. I wish I like oysters because those who got them were raving! I also tried a bite of a delicious reuben another friend ordered. Great food, great service, and very accommodating! A perfect lunch spot before exploring Frederick.
(4)
Kenzie F.
Several years ago, I could rave about the food here. Now, not so much. If you're here for the bar, you're in the right place. If you're just going in for food, I would recommend going elsewhere downtown. I have tried 3 times to change my mind about the food. I had really talked this place up to friends, so after visiting it was pretty uncomfortable when the food was obviously unimpressive. Later, I went with friends that had been before and they had the same thought as I did: "this place used to be so good". So, sadly I probably won't try again with this place. If you're there to just enjoy a few drinks with friends, go for it. Otherwise...
(2)
Mary M.
I reserved a table on a Saturday at 6:00 for a co-worker's bachelorette party. Everyone found something they liked on the menu and seemed to enjoy their meals. I had the crab dip and the fish and chips, both of which were excellent. I saw someone below stated that the crab dip was a pure - this was not the case us.. It had an excellent flavor and lots of big chunks of crab meat. Our "bachelorette" had selected Brewers because she particularly liked one of their specialty pizzas. Although it had been removed from the menu, when she asked the waiter about it he checked with the kitchen and they agreed to make it for her anyway. We were in no hurry to leave as we were chatting, opening gifts and playing some games. I should have let them know when I made the reservation that we planned to stay for a while - but I didn't (my mistake.) It was a busy night for them and they had booked another group for the table at 8:00. We were done with our dinners but still going strong. The manager came over to talk to us and very nicely let us know that had booked another group for 8:00. She said if we didn't not mind moving she would be happy to try to make some space for us at the bar - we were fine with this. Unfortunately, the bar was apparently packed. However, she came up with an even better solution - one of their upstairs banquet rooms was not in use and she offered to move us up there and provide us with a server. This turned out to be awesome, as we had the whole room to ourselves and excellent service. We stayed a couple more hours and really enjoyed ourselves. The manager even brought us all shots to apologize which was not expected. Turns out the party waiting for the table after us was that of another of our co-workers who was there for her sister's birthday. Apparently they were given free appetizers to make up for having to wait an extra 15 minutes for the table. We were truly impressed with how the manager handled what could have been a very difficult situation and made everyone happy. The staff was awesome across the board. We would absolutely return for a party - of course we'd let them know how long we planned to stay this time. Additionally I would be happy to return with family for a dinner out anytime.
(5)
Justin C.
Come on guys, fourteen bucks for a burger, you could at least give a salad and a side with that. Food was good though, don't get me wrong, except maybe the pizza which looks and tastes like the frozen ones you get at the grocery store and make at home. Bartenders can be a little jerky too unless your a regular. Their beers are good but a little pricey unless you go at happy hour or something, decent place and fun to come to now and then, but it can be a money pit if you stay any amount of time. Overall, if you ask me the place is a little pretentious for what it is. Pretty small bar area that gets packed on weekend nights, most times there will be no place to sit. Its ok, and fun to go to now and then but I just dont get some peoples obsession with this place. Im heading over to Firestones...
(3)
LaKisha P.
Great service. Beer selection is great. Food is good, but some items aren't as flavorful as I'd prefer. The bar atmosphere is comfortable and the dog patio is a great addition.
(4)
Kevin H.
The beer, food and service was good. We decided to come back the next night with a larger group. The restaurant advised reservations for groups of six or more, so we phoned to make a reservation for 6:45 PM on a Saturday evening. We were told to just come on in; no reservation was necessary. When we arrived, however, we were told that we should have made a reservation, as there would be a long wait. We explained that we had tried to do just that but had not been allowed to, but that did no good. We have now been waiting for half an hour... I strongly recommend that you try to make a reservation, and if you are told it is not necessary, go to another restaurant.
(2)
Joey B.
This is a wonderful building!!! and i have wonderful memories coming here years ago! The food is not very good and that's kinda sad since its an all American Brewery. You want good food with your beer.. That's just food 101.. Nothing i have ordered here ever came out fresh. you will get the Trots from eating here. lol The Service is a hit or miss here. most of the time the waiters and waitresses are nice but other times they have been darn rude. If you are a beer drinker and love to socialize at night and weekends at watch sports, then this is the place for you! The atmosphere is very nice!!!
(3)
Anna N.
On a trip home from DC we asked Siri the best places to eat near by. Lucky for us this place came up. We got seated right away and were starving! The service was good, but we were so pleasantly surprised with the food. The fired pickles were a great way to start our meal then I got the avocado turkey burger which was HUGE and messy but delicious! My boyfriend also really enjoyed his pizza. We didn't partake in any of the beer since we were traveling so I don't have input on that. If we are ever in the area again I know we will be stopping by here!
(4)
Evey G.
We had a wonderful time at Brewer's Alley, twice! We attended a rehearsal dinner in one of their upstairs rooms which was just very well handled and lovely. We also returned the next day for a regular lunch in the main dining room and had a great experience. The food is delicious, and while I didn't have any of their beer I heard great things about the selection. The restaurant is really cute and convenient. Beautifully decorated, charming, easy to access, and with a parking garage just behind it. We didn't find the prices overwhelming or inappropriate, and all of the staff we encountered during both the rehearsal dinner and the lunch were outstanding. If we are back in Frederick we would absolutely recommend this restaurant and return ourselves.
(4)
Susie-q C.
This restaurant is easily one of my favorites. Their beer, their food, the location, service. My favorite dish here is the black bean burger, soooo delicious! They have a great variety of dishes from seafood, to pizzas, burgers, salads. Will be visiting this place for as long as I'm downtown Frederick!
(5)
James H.
Food and drink were great on first visit. Based on second visit, staff training and reservation policy is atrocious and irresponsible for an establishment of purportedly high caliber. We called at 6:15 pm to make a dinner reservation for a party of 6 adults plus a 3 year old child. We were told that fitting in such a party at 6:45 pm would not require a reservation and were not allowed to make one. An advance party arrived at 6:40 pm to claim the table, and was told the wait time would be 25-30 minutes. At 7:00 pm the rest of the party had arrived and the group was told the wait time would still be 30-35 minutes despite the time that had passed. The manager was not able to determine which member of staff lied to customers about the option to make a reservation and maintained that staff were trained despite this evidence to the contrary.
(1)
Lorena B.
Do not go to the bar at Brewer's Alley if you're in a time crunch. Service is slow. I've been here twice, once on a late Saturday night when it was packed and on a Sunday evening when it was fairly busy. On both occasions the waitress was friendly but there were loooong wait times to get menus, order drinks, get refills, etc. As the name implies, they brew their own beers here. You can pick a flight of six (I think) to taste. The boo enjoyed that. Me, I liked my usual vodka soda but I also had a Bellini that was gross. I've had better ones in casinos. I've never eaten a meal here but the menu is extensive so it seems like a good choice if you're with a group. On my first visit, I had the brownie ice cream sundae. I'm not usually a vanilla ice cream fan but I remember the menu said it was either homemade or locally made and it was pretty damn good. The crab dip I had during the more recent visit was disappointing. The chips were warm Tostitos and the dip seemed to be cream cheese with one piece of crab meat. However, it came with a spicy salsa that was delicious and should be an app on it's own.
(3)
Chason J.
Awesome place with a cool vibe. The old walls mixed with a new bar and TV's make it a chill place to grab a brew. The pizza is killer. I definitely recommend going here.
(4)
Anonymous A.
First time here for lunch and I enjoyed the food and service. But the restaurant just doesn't feel clean. I was seated in the north room and the carpet was filthy, the chair upholstery stained and the wooden tables have seen better days. Maybe table cloths or placemats would help but the dust on the table legs and overall grimy look are inexcusable. The waitress was very kind and efficient and my food tasted delicious but they just need to clean the place up. There was even a peculiar odor when I first entered but luckily it was dissipated by the ceiling fans.
(3)
Ashly L.
The beer is pretty good, but their food leaves a lot to be desired. Had the French Dip special today. The roast beef was tasty, but there were WAY too many balsamic onions on the dish. Also, the onions were so tart, I had to remove them from the sandwich. The other thing I noticed was my beer glass was sticky. I looked and it had syrup stuck on the bottom. I'll pop in for a beer every now and then, but other than that I think I'd pass.
(2)
Suzanne K.
This restaurant, bar, brewery is awesome. From the old wood to the fun staff to the great food my family and I love it all. We regularly meet here on Fridays for happy hour, my husband and I used to come on Wednesday nights for their free buffet and happy hour beers (when we were young and did not have as much extra funds for nights out) and we love to come on Thursday for their Lobster night. The servers are fun, especially Alan (heeeeyyyy), all of them have their favorite items on the menu. All of their brews are delicious, I personally like the Nut Brown and Kolsch. For wine lovers they have a great selection both by the glass and the bottle and if you want a mixed drink go for it the bartenders are amazing. For foods, I recommend the fried pickles or calamaris, and oysters when they are in season, try out the Mac'n'cheese it's amazing, get the ham trust me. The pizzas are great and they are wood fired which makes them just so much better. OOOHHHH and if you see Apple Pie as the dessert...GET IT! A shout out to the banquet and special occasion staff who guided me through the process of hosting my sisters Bridal Shower upstairs. Jackie was fantastic and I recommend their party rooms for anything you need. They can wire in your music work with you on how best to layout the room and the food is the same deliciousness from the restaurant downstairs. They can even make a cake for your party! Go here, relax and enjoy the afternoon or evening with friends.
(5)
Meagan G.
Was here last week for dinner with a friend. While the service was a little slow, the food was excellent. We both got drinks from the bar, him a flight of different beers and I a girly drink. The food was excellent and very reasonable in price, good portion sizes for the price and a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
(4)
Rachel L.
pretty good beers, i really enjoyed the burger and the nachos.
(4)
David F.
Beer was excellent they had the oh my gourd on tap barrel aged, got he jumbo lump crap, usually don't eat seafood at all and OMG that shit was amazing, ou have to get it.... HAVE TO!
(4)
Steven B.
Visiting here was mandatory as my last name is Brewer! I whipped in for a late lunch, showed my ID to the bartender, and said that considering my last name, everything should be free. Sadly she wouldn't go for it. Not even a free brew. Oh well. The atmosphere is great. It's a very old building that was once an opera house among other things. It has a history a mile long and if you like old restored buildings, as I do, you'll love it! I've been to dozens of breweries and the beers here were A-OK. They were nothing special but just fine. Prices were competitive. I ordered the BLACKENED BURGER ($12). It was one-half pound of Lean Hereford Beef with Blackened Seasoning, Pepper-Jack Cheese, LTO and Horseradish Cream on a Toasted Potato Knot Roll. It came with shoestring fries and it was tasty and A-OK. My bartender was friendly and customer service was A-OK. Are you sensing a theme here? I had a decent meal with decent brews but nothing made me go wow. For me, this was a typical three star experience.
(3)
Cliff W.
Not often, but sometimes, I venture outside the beltway. When it does happen, it's usually for something epic. No, we didn't leave the sweet comforting confines of urban civilization for this establishment, but instead for a waterfall in Thurmont MD. Afterwards though we found ourselves to be famished and needed to get some grub. I had heard about Brewer's Alley in past conversations about this place having the best burger. That's a tall claim, especially when you make it to me, a guy who's trying his hardest to clog his arteries with nothing but the best burgers one can find. For those who haven't read my previous reviews, I'm pretty passionate about this quest. So when we were all tired and fresh off the trail, I thought that since I was in the area and hungry that today would be judgement day. For someone not from Frederick, I was actually somewhat excited about knowing this spot was downtown. It's on "Main St, USA" if you know what I mean. On a Saturday afternoon there was a band playing down the street on the sidewalk, there were people everywhere, all in all I loved this little slice of Americana that I found myself in. Brewer's Alley lives up to its name by being in an alley. There was patio seating to be had and if we were visiting in the evening we would have sat outside. However, being hot, we went inside and found plenty of open tables in the bar area. Many a local there were adorned in their finest Orioles attire while they watched the game on one of the many tvs the place had up. The service was a bit slow, but I was able to order a nut brown ale that was pretty tasty. Their pizza menu looked delicious, but I didn't stumble my way into this establishment for that. No, my sights were set on their burger. My friends ordered a pizza, a pulled pork sandwich, and a salad. Everyone was pleased with their meal, but no one was blown away. The burger, ordered medium, came and was a watered down version of what one could get at Central in DC. It was good, don't get me wrong, but I would never place it in the category of being the best. It could most certainly be the best in Frederick, I'm willing to say that, but the best ever? Nah. The fries that came with it were also the really thing stringy kind. I'm not a fan of those. I want some potato in the middle of the fry, and the little thing string fries there weren't my thing. One of the people I was with though liked them, so depending on your preference they could possibly be great. The meal in its entirety was generally cheap in terms of price, and I'd probably go back if I found myself hungry in Frederick again. However, there's no way I'd make a special trip out from the beltway into the wild lands of Maryland when there are much better restaurants locally. If I was a Frederick local though? It could possibly be a spot I'd frequent. Dems da breaks.
(3)
Shana C.
Met some clients for a business lunch and decided to refill my growler... from 2010. I didn't realize I hadn't cleaned it properly (they don't accept dirty growlers). I explained that I lived over 45 minutes away I really didn't want to drive all the way back to have it refilled next time. Shortly after the manager came to the table and instead of reprimanding me - he explained why they have the policy, how to clean it properly in the future, and offered to replace the growler with a new one at no charge. The excellent customer service did not stop there! Our waitress was very attentive (even during a busy lunch hour) and the food was great. I ordered the fish tacos, which had with delicious large pieces of fish, and french fries. The service and food were outstanding, if you haven't been here - you should go immediately.
(5)
A N.
I eat lunch here frequently.. and it is reliably good. However I went to a group dinner last evening.... worst.meal.ever. Everything was "from a box" from the pasta to the mashed potatoes ... (yes both in the same meal) with 2 meat dishes... no veggies short of a salad. The salt bread would have been ok.. if I was drinking beer... but I was not. I have eaten at "banquets " like this throughout the region, in places that are pretty darned bad. My expectations were for a good healthy and tasty meal from B.A. Instead it may have been the worst restaurant meal of my life...
(1)
Joseph F.
Speedy service, and good food. Fun, old timey atmosphere in the heart of a great city. Try the steak; it's excellent. So is their blueberry beer.
It was okay, really. But just okay. With so many options in the area, I think I would try a different one next time rather than go here again. Nothing stood out as being horrible, but nothing really stood out as being great either. I agree with the others -- the front door staff really wasn't that friendly. Neither was our waiter in the beginning, although he did warm up a bit later in the meal. If it was the only game in town, sure, I'd give it another go. But since it's not, if we return to Frederick, we'll try something else.
(3)
Mihai T.
My first burger at Brewer's Alley. One of the best I've ever had. Add a craft beer to that, awesome
(5)
Colleen B.
We were so glad to see Frederick was so dog friendly! This restaurant even had a dogie patio. That said we have come to the conclusion that the patio is where they send the bad waiters. The menu had pumpkin bisque as the soup of the day so we ordered it. Not only had they taken it off but they must have forgotten to tell our waitress. The runner tried to tell us that the beef soup he gave us was Pumpkin. Seriously? It has beans and chunks of beef! The waitress was nice enough to take the soup we sent back off our bill. Gee, thanks. The cold bean veggie burger was edible but the fries were outstanding! Tiny shoe string. YUM.
(3)
Michele W.
Gotta love a place that has their own brews! The waiters are also very knowledgeable about their offerings if you are indecisive. There is a good variety of food choices. The food is good and satisfying
(3)
Michelle A.
This restaurant seems to be a Frederick favorite, and (being brand new to the area) it was at the top of my list to try... Me, my two girlfriends and my daughter stopped in a little after 1pm on a Saturday. We got seated right away, and our waitress was prompt, friendly and helpful. This is a brewery, so we stuck with things that have natural associations with beer. We started with fried calamari (beer battered) and were pleasantly surprised to find two sauces (cocktail and an aioli) and hand-cut calamari rings. The batter was crisp and light and flavorful... overall, it was a really good version of a dish that can be a let-down when it's not done right. Then I got a burger with blue cheese. It was a better than average burger, with a healthy amt of cheese, and a nice large fresh bun. It also came with onion straws, lettuce and tomato. I happen to like thick burgers, so for me this was great. My friends tried a burger and also liked it, and then got the pulled pork sandwich as well, which looked a little wet (coming from Richmond, I know it's preferable to put your own BBQ sauce on pulled pork, but hey, when in Rome...) but was otherwise reported to be delicious. Also, as a curveball, we ordered the braise kale. It was braised with bacon, so really- we had to try it. And it was good, if a little greasy. The bacon wasn't crisp, which I think is the correct way to serve this dish, but overall, the bacon lent a nice salty flavor to otherwise bland kale, and the kale was cooked and tender but not overcooked or mushy... Bonus points for being kind and accommodating to my 1 year old, and this place is a no-brainer for when I need to get out of the house for a casual dinner. The prices, while they may be high for some items as other reviewers noted, seemed reasonable for the foods we ordered.
(5)
Casey J.
I have dined here several times and have been thoroughly impressed with not only the menu but the service as well. Whether it be the steak or a seafood entree I have been delighted with the food. Also I absolutely love that they have an outdoor area where you can dine and bring your dog with you, actually I can say that the whole town of Fredrick is very dog friendly as far as the businesses are concerned. Anyways you can bet I'll be eating here again!
(5)
Corey W.
Overall, this place is great. I've only been in the bar area to eat, and I really like it. We had the Oatmeal Stout and it's my wife's favorite beer (so we had lots of it). Pizza is fantastic; we also had some raw oysters and the jalapeño pretzel - both really good. Nice mixture of young and old people; staff is on point and plenty of TVs in the at area if you want to do some sports watching. It's a Fredrick staple, so you gotta go.
(4)
Kem W.
It's always hard to judge a restaurant's quality with lunch. Any restaurant that can't make a sandwich must be really pathetic. So it is with this place. I was there for lunch and had a nice roast beef sandwich, thick-sliced, piled high with a nice cheddar. We also had a chicken salad sandwich. That was deemed too processed. The chicken could have been chunkier. Cole slaw was good as were the fries. I had a hefeweizen that was fine. The dining room we were in looked a tad better than a Bob's Big Boy but the bar area looked OK. But the service was friendly and attentive. Overall I can't complain but it was only lunch.
(3)
Becca R.
Stopped in for lunch and some brews the other day while visiting downtown Frederick. When we looked up the menu we couldn't pass up our three favorite things: local microbrews, fried pickles, and handmade spicy black bean burgers. There was a lot of beer to choose from, including several seasonal. The waitress brought out a taste to help us make our decision. I tried the Opera IPA and Kolsch, both were crisp and refreshing. The Opera had a really interesting taste, definitely recommended. Fried pickles were just the right amount, four spears coated in breadcrumbs which made it lighter and crunchy. Also avoided creating the heat pocket that burns the roof of your mouth off like battered fired pickle spears. The black bean burgers were great. Huge patty, held together well for a handmade patty, and packing a nice amount of heat. Good guacamole hidden under the patty. Only thing that could improve it would be top it with pico instead of a tomato slice.
(4)
David J.
Met some old friends here, so catching up with each other was priority, not the food. Good thing, because the food was only average and certainly not as good as I remembered from a few years back. Wife had the fish tacos- "OK" and the remainder had burgers, mine undercooked slightly. Beer was good, but I haven't met too many beers I didn't like. Service on a busy Saturday night was OK, but we were stuck at a table in a corner that was not level. Tip to hostesses: if you move tables around, check and use coasters to level the table before you seat guests. Speaking of furniture, at these prices I would think they could afford some new. The dining room is starting to look like a second-hand shop. Overall 2.5 stars, and there are better choices in Frederick.
(3)
Alexander A.
Nice bar. Mediocre food. At least in my experience off their daily special menu. Also, I would ask for a swig of their specialty beers if you go that direction. Not very good IMO. I'll definitely return for the atmosphere (and drink bottled beer).
(3)
Elaine M.
Everything about Brewer's Alley was great! We got a beer (Kolsch - great, a little like Bud Light but more flavorful) at the bar while waiting for a table - only about a 15 minute wait for a Saturday night. We started with Fried Pickle Spears which were the best fried pickles I've had! Very crispy, because of Panko - didn't fall apart. Also had Crab Dip, which was creamy and not too crabby. Apple Goat Cheese pizza was da bomb. Mac And Cheese side was great. Their French fries are always crispy and delightful - shoestring style. Our server was Jeremy and he was SO FUN and very attentive. He really made our night. Overall, everything was amazing, all the way down to the busser, who was also superb. Will definitely come back!!!
(5)
Allison L.
A decent restaurant in a good location. I had the BBQ chicken pizza, which was fine. My fiance had the Ludicrous burger, which is a bacon burger stuffed between two grilled cheese sandwiches. About a gazillion grams of fat, but probably also the best entree out of the 4 ordered. Service was nice, but slow. Prices are reasonable/inexpensive. Not a bad experience, just not memorable enough to hurry back.
(3)
Jade M.
While visiting friends this past weekend in Frederick they took us to Brewer's Alley which is located right in the heart of downtown. The restaurant/bar was full of college students and families enjoying a Friday night meal. We arrived a little after 8pm and were seated right away. We started with the Southern Fried Pickles (cajun battered pickle spears) served with Ranch. Yum! We also sampled the Kolsch beer- very crisp and refreshing taste! For our main entrees, my friends and I ordered the Fish Tacos, the Alley Burger (served with fries and crispy tobacco onions), the Spanish Pizza (chorizo, roasted red peppers, red onions and ricotta), and the Pizza Italiano (Italian sausage, pepperoni, red onions, banana and green peppers and mozzarella). Everything was affordably priced and had good flavors. This is a good place to enjoy a meal with friends.
(3)
Brian T.
Very cool place with an interesting menu and very good beer list. Prices are reasonable and the service was outstanding.
(5)
Benny R.
We arrived with a group of 6 adults and two kids. Then we waited outside for a half hour with plenty of open tables next to each other that they refused to push together. We asked the manager about the tables and she curtly responded "oh, we don't move tables". I'm pretty ecstatic we ended up leaving. I didn't want to eat here anyway. I've been here four times over the last ten years and each time the food was garbage. Now that my family has another reason not to go, hopefully I won't have to ever come back. And now that I have a yelp account I can give this hole the review they deserve.
(1)
Jason C.
Good place to stop in and grab a beer and watch a game. The food there is also pretty good as well. The only issue which is not there fault is its always way to crowded at night.
(4)
Bran G.
We were excited for this place in downtown Frederick but honestly were not impressed with the beer, service, or lay out. We sat out back which had no character to it. Waitress was knowledgeable but snoody. It started to rain so we went inside, got attitude about it. I guess we should have just gotten soaked? The inside seemed crammed with tables nearly in walkways. Beers were only so-so. Sighhhhh
(2)
vanessa g.
I was a big fan of the beer selection, my favorite was the oatmeal stout and the nut brown ale, very delicious. I ordered a Margherita pizza and it tasted pretty average, service at the bar was average and the prices were good. Overall good experience, would love to purchase a growler soon.
(3)
Mike M.
Very good beer. Food is OK, not out of this world. Several TV's in the bar area. Fun crowd on a Sunday afternoon, surprisingly packed, especially for mid afternoon. Go for the beer! And get a growler, you can take the beer home with you.
(4)
Susan W.
The first brewery/restaurant is the area, it is still creating lovely beers in a fun, old town atmosphere. The food is mostly affordable and good. Owned by the same folks who own Isabella's and Ayse, you will find that yummy calamari on this menu, too. Bring some friends who appreciate good beer and order the tabletop beer dispenser. It's a fun twist and a way to get around the sometimes long wait in getting a refill during their busy times.
(4)
Daniella H.
After a looooong day of driving north to raft the Upper Yough, by the time we got off the river and arrived at the restaurant we were starving. We=a group of 8 of us. We were initially seated outside where it took at least 10 minutes to be greeted by our waitress and was so loud that we couldn't even hear each other due to the music. Now, the music on any other night were have been great; however, we just wanted to eat, unwind, and relax at this point. We were immediately seated inside and had a fabulous, funny, much more attentive waiter. I had the mozzarella, roasted red pepper, pesto panini, which was flavorful but a little on the greasier side. We were served quickly and all in all ended quite satisfied. Our favorite part about this place was the locally brewed beers. Mmmmmm, this place makes 'em well and they're reasonable priced. I'd definitely visit again for beer and bar food!
(3)
Dawn B.
Can I give 3 1/2 for this one? The food was average, but the service was amazing. The waitress was kind enough to take my credit card not once, but twice so I could surprise my boyfriend's parents by paying for dinner. She was subtle in her motions and even did an under the table pass. The restaurant food was reasonably priced and the soup was a nice touch as a side to the meal. Wish they would have laid off the salt though... it was a little bit over done. As for my main dish, the crab cake was well cooked, but the bread it was served in was tasteless and was not well paired with the delicious crab cake.
(4)
Rob R.
Never disappointed by the Margherita pizza, cooked in their fantastic pizza oven and large enough that I guaranteed to have seconds the next day.
(5)
George O.
Be Aware: they do not fill growlers from other brewers here. The growlers they sell are the expensive kind with aluminum handles ($15) as opposed to the common cider jugs ($2).
(1)
Vik S.
What every decent brewery should have, this place has it. Choice of beer suited to every palate, food suited to every palate, friendly servers and decent prices. One of my favorite places to stop over whenever I'm in the area. A definite 4 star due to one reason only, their beer needs more flavor compared to other microbreweries but, don't let that deter you from this 'hole in the wall' of an awesome place!
(4)
Lauren T.
Menu has a nice variety, something for everyone. Amazing pizza w pesto, goat cheese, and balsamic! Normal pizzas too. Great beer of course. Outdoor, indoor seating, and a large bar area too.
(5)
Jason H.
Give this place 3 stars because the beer was good. Went there with my family from out of town because I heard it was good. Got the burger, which was not cooked right and the fries were cold. Could not find our waiter so I ate the food as is. To top it off we sat outside on the patio and could smell nothing but the trash can next to our table. Did I mention the beer was good? May still give them another chance, but there are a lot of good places downtown.
(3)
Marlene B.
Good selection of beer at a good price. Loved the oatmeal stout! The fried pickles are to die for! Next time I will order my own fried pickles instead of sharing them! I gave 4 stars because I ordered a medium well burger and it came out medium rarek however, the waiter was great about taking it back to the kitchen to get it cooked more. A good restaurant overall.
(4)
Shruti M.
you really can't beat their happy hour beer prices. This is a typical local pub environment. You get good beer for a cheap price during happy hour (2.52/draft). While i do wish they had some happy hour appetizer specials, the beer prices make up for that. The service was great, our waitress was friendly and very attentive. we didn't have any of the entrees, but would recommend the jalapeno pretzel, the nachos, and the bacon wrapped jalapenos. Overall, I'd recommend this place for anyone who just wants to chill, enjoy some beers, and relax.
(4)
Karen S.
We came early on a Saturday night so we got a seat on the back patio (really just a converted alley space next to a parking garage) right away. We weren't shaded by the building so as the sun set, it really got in our eyes. The food was decent: I got the crab cake, which came with corn, mashed potatoes and I swapped out the asparagus for a squash medley. It was good, but there were so many bits of shell in my crab cake! I picked out five or six, and it's not a big crab cake to start with. My boyfriend got the pulled pork sandwich, which he enjoyed, and the shoestring fries are really good. He also had the beer sampler, which for $8 had generous portions. The beers were interesting-- he got a mix of their usual and seasonal ones, including a blueberry beer that tasted strongly of blueberry. It's right in downtown Frederick so you've got a great opportunity to walk around and see all the local shops before or after dinner.
(3)
Natalie B.
This place is my favorite place for bar food in Frederick. The appetizers are quite delicious and they have an interesting selection. The pizza fired up in their pizza oven are delicious! The service is good, if a bit slow. Also, you can bring your dog with you out on the patio in the warmer months. Great food, great beer, and they allow your best friend?! What's not to love?
(4)
Orlangela A.
She said..."Got the house salad and crab dip. The crab dip didn't look like it had any crab in it. It tasted more like cream cheese dip. Not good for $11. And it came with chips, like chips and salsa? Little confused about that...normally crab dip comes with a baguette or bread or pretzel. The house salad was not that good either, couple pieces of lettuce, onions and two tomatoes with watery ranch dressing. Probably wouldn't come back here to eat. I think people come here just for the bar." He said..."I got the southern fried pickles and house salad. The pickles said they come with a "ranch tomato aioli" I'll admit that the dipping sauce was good, but tomato aioli was absent. The pickles were legit and I would get them again, the salad had very basic items. I assume it is hard to deep fry pickles cut length wise but the chef did a good job, they were crunchy and not overcooked."
(2)
Darius M.
Beer isn't that great. The food is good. Pizzas are a specialty. It would be a more frequent stop for me if they added a couple of "guest" taps featuring quality micros that they don't brew themselves; ie russian imperial stout.
(4)
Candice S.
Yummy bloody Mary's & great bar food! The fried pickles are amazing, but beware the bacon wrapped jalapeño! They are SO incredibly hot. I love spicy food and I couldn't handle them! Nice atmosphere, fast service.. but could be more polite. We'll definitely be back but pray for a friendly waitress :)
(4)
Brittany A.
Went to this place last night and it's just as it's previous average says it is.... A-OK. The place is huge. Large bar area, two patios. They had live music on the patio which was nice. I would have loved to sit on the patio but because of the saturday night wait, we opted for first available. The inside has clearly not been remodeled since it was built. Definitely old 90's decor. FOOD was okay. My husband loved his spicy trout dish. The kids pizza looked appetizing enough. My daughter's sweet potato fries looked pretty limp and sad at first but do not be fooled! They were still pretty crispy. Our pupusas were good! My chicken caesar was....... a chicken caesar. Pretty normal. The soups, though? No, no, no. I got the tomato bisque because I am a HUGE tomato bisque lover. I still get shivers when I think of the 2 bites I took. It was an unappetizing light orange color with the texture of mealy tomatoes. It tasted like dirty dish water. No salt, super watery. Just, no. The french onion wasn't much better but edible. I highly doubt it is house made. Really salty. The portions are tiny as well. They brought out the "bowl" of soup and I had to ask if they had accidentally brought out a cup. Very tiny, especially for $7. Overall, really disappointed with the soup. Especially since that's what I had ordered for my main course. SERVICE was okay. Our waitress was a bit awkward. But it takes all kinds, I guess. She didn't write anything down and forgot my soup the first go around as well as forgetting that I had asked for no croutons on my salad. She was pretty responsive to our requests though, which is always nice. Especially with kids who were sending her back and forth for drinks, bleu cheese to dip pizza in, ranch, etc. My husband loved the beer, though. Under $4 for a great beer? We never see that. Overall I think this place is pricey for the atmosphere and the food quality. We had an A-OK time. I don't think we'll go again because of the prices but with a large group for drinks and apps? Sure!
(3)
Leah P.
Tried their beer at the Alive at Five event and really enjoyed it. I'm not a big beer drinker, but I enjoyed the two beers that I did have. Husband and I went here after the event, excited to try the local hot spot that we've had people recommend to us, as we're new residents of Frederick. I was unimpressed with the hostesses. I felt like they were not very friendly or courteous. They asked us if we were open to sitting in the bar and we said yes, then they told us to go see if anything was open and if not we could come back and they would get us a table. Isn't that the hostess's job? I'm big on customer service and the overall demeanor of the two girls up front, plus this, really turned me off. The bar is a beautiful area with the big windows, but when we turned the corner to sit in the dining area, we were very unimpressed. The atmosphere felt very cramped and the decor felt like you were eating in a Perkins. For such a neat building and beautiful bar area, we were disappointed with the dining area. It was a busy night for them so, service was a little slow. We found ourselves waiting for quite some time to order, for our food, to get our check, and then to pay our check. The waitress was fairly friendly, though. The food was tasty. We enjoyed the pulled pork sandwich and a small pizza. Both dishes were very tasty and generously sized portions for the price. I give the food a higher rating than the overall rating. We'll be back, but next time we will be sure to sit on the patio or in the bar!
(3)
Chris W.
I wish I could give a zero star rating. In reality, the service is great and the food is good, but we had pretty much the worst experience possible when trying to have a nice evening out with friends. We had a large group, and when we were seated, half of our group was held up, and a manager by the name of Brian decided that he should call one of our party an asshole straight to her face. Just because we have an unusually large group that makes us assholes and we shouldn't ask him for any help because he is absolutely against customer service. Usually managers should be all about alleviating bad situations. Instead, Brian thought that the best course of action was to be completely unprofessional in seating a wedding party, and to accost a member of our party for no apparent reason. Needless to say, we will never visit this establishment again due to Brian's horrible people skills and unprofessional conduct. Despite the horrible management, the server named Jordan was extremely pleasant and tried everything she could to make our experience as enjoyable as possible.
(1)
Cindy A.
Went on a Saturday for dinner (in March) and it was packed. We had reservations for 9 people, for 6Pm. They sat us at 6:15pm. Ehh not so bad. The group before us just didn't want to leave. It was a great spot with a nice view of street in front (the back room looked a little uninviting with its no windows and such.) I got what the waiter recommended, which was great. (Shrimp & lobster over polenta - I think it was a special.) I was disappointed with the lack of better-for-you side dishes, especially for kids. Both my kids ordered the pizza, but both ended up with fries as a side b/c they had no other good options. Wah. Really? Some restaurants have great options for kids. This is not one of those places.
(3)
Robert H.
I really liked the quality of service here, everyone from the greeters to the servers were friendly and attentive. They brew their own beer and offer flights so you can try a wide variety. I will definitely be back here next time I'm around the Frederick area (preferably when I'm not the designated driver!).
(4)
Devonshire B.
Like Yelp says: "Meh. I've experienced better."
(2)
Adam P.
If your looking for a great meal Brewers Alley has it. The service was wonderful from the time we walked in until the time we left. I had my family along with some friends and the staff was very helpful and accommodating. We had the popcorn shrimp appetizer which was great and then for dinner we had the fish and chips and the meatloaf with cheddar whipped mashed potatoes and green beans. Also they have a great kids meal that should appeal to most young ones. 5 stars.
(5)
Mehmed M.
Meh. Food is way overpriced for the quality. Quite frankly the food tasted like it came from the back of a Sysco truck and was heated up with little to no added spice. But... the price ($20 for entrees) tells me they use gourment ingredients. I think my tastebuds know the difference. I didn't get any beers, nor did I hang out at the bar. Maybe this is a great place to meet for a drink - but for dinner? no way. Too many better alternatives a stone's throw away to ever eat here again.
(2)
Robin S.
This is a good place for lunch. I had one of the specials: ham & cheese (not as simple as it sounds) and potato salad. Potato salad was average (Gram ruined me cause no one can touch her's). The ham & cheese was very good, piled high & good bread. The atmosphere was nice. Good service, good recommendations. A solid 3-star restaurant.
(3)
Daniel A.
*Banquet Review* I have to say that the atmosphere, food, and bar selections are great for the price. Highly recommend them for a company dinner, rehersal dinner, etc. Had a great experience. Jackie the coordinator was easy to work with.
(5)
Andrew M.
Great atmosphere, very tasty house brewed beers. I had the Oktoberfest which has become one of my favorite seasonals - was not expecting that! The sampler is a steal at $7 for a pick 6 of their microbrews. Didn't get any food this time but the smells wafted delectably through the bar/restaurant air. Looked good too! But go for the beers, at the least.
(4)
Robin M.
Atmosphere was your average pub, comfortably packed with people enjoying themselves and their food. My Caesar salad was okay and I got the "fish and chips" which were not bad. Their French fries are amazing tho. Good service and decent atmosphere. Nice pub for Frederick.
(3)
Tim U.
Visited while in town in business. Said they had wifi internet and it didn't work upon arrival. Waitress mentioned it was common for it not to work. Good fish and chips although the price was a bit high at $15, even during Happy Hour. Not convinced to come back.
(3)
Ashley C.
My family had lunch at Brewer's Alley today for my niece's birthday, and I could not have been more impressed. They had an extensive gluten free menu, and were willing to modify most items on the menu to be gluten free, even going as far as pan frying their hand-cut fries to avoid cross-contamination issues. Our server was so helpful and attentive, and manager Brian's concern for accommodating my celiac diet went above and beyond what I expected. Oh, and the handcut fries and fish tacos were fantastic, too!
(5)
William F.
We stopped here today for some beer and bar food, and left rather disappointed. The food was poor, and the service was worse. In the past, we always liked this place, so we were rather surprised.
(1)
Dana Z.
I've been here a few times for late night in the bar area which has always been just ok... sometimes a little too crowded and loud for what it is. Definitely not one of the first places I would pick downtown to go, but has always been a solid place to go. Went back just recently for dinner. The service as mentioned in other reviews is very friendly. I do have to say they totally screwed up our table's order though. They cooked one person's steak wrong, they forgot to bring out another person's soup, and they brought me the entirely wrong pizza. Still, they worked to fix all the problems so it wasn't that bad. Just had an off night maybe. As for the food, it's good but not great. They do have a pretty big menu with a big selection. If anything, I would like to see more salads on the menu. They were all pretty boring. Not the greatest place downtown, but it does the job.
(3)
Ignacio S.
I have been there several times in the last six or seven years. It used to have a shorter menu when they made the brews in-house. Every beer that I have ever had there was at least good. Most of them are very good, and some of them, such as their stout, are fantastic. The food menu is hit or miss, with more misses than hits. Their fries are always good, but most of the rest can be either pretty good or pretty bad, sometimes in the same menu item. Case in point, our last visit. We had a calamari appetizer. The outside is golden, crispy, light, and delicious, but the squid itself was chewy, close to rubbery. In the same visit, I had the reuben and I was disappointed. Very little, almost flavorless sauerkraut, a lot of not very good pastrami, and a lot, a lot, a lot of fat on the bread. My wife had the open face turkey sandwich. The turkey was good, but the gravy tasted like it came from some evil powder, with a strong flavor that reminded us of those soups that come in and envelope. The spinach with garlic adn bacon that was the side dish was excellent. So, to summarize, go just for the beer because the food, with a few exceptions, is average at best. There are several places with much better food within a couple hundred yards.
(3)
Jack R.
Is the food as good as some of the nearby restaurants? Not quite, but it's close enough, and the prices are better than all of its high-quality neighbors. But the beer. Oh goodness the beer. Unfortunately Brewer's hasn't found a way to sustain a bar population most nights, so this is not going to be your final destination. However, should you be looking to go out downtown, you should start here 100 out of 100 times. Their home-brewed pints are delicious enough to be a premium price, but they still charge under $4 per pint. I can't get a pint of Yuengling at half the bars I go to for $4. The space in the bar used to be a problem. Two years ago the bar was either too dead to enjoy, or full enough that navigation was troublesome. Then they cleared out the tanks and opened up the lobby and boom, problem gone! As a bar, Brewer's needs to figure out how to reach critical mass on nights that aren't Fridays or Saturdays. Once it does that, there will be no reason to go to other bars in Frederick.
(5)
Alicia K.
Food and atmosphere were FANTASTIC. I ordered the turkey burger. It was great. The service was extremely slow, however. We were forgotten many times, which was frustrating.
(4)
Todd M.
Decent food, but could not find a beer that suited me at all. The beers are lacking in depth and flavor in my opinion. The better beers on tap were from Monacacy brewing. The food was lackluster and average at best. There are a lot better beers and food places in town. It is a good place to watch events though with all the TV's and is a great space. Wish they could up their game a bit.
(2)
Jake W.
Great place for Sunday drinks and appetizers while watching the game. My buddy and I got the beer sampler-6 (5oz pour) beers of your choosing for 8 bucks, and the bacon wrapped jalapeños. The jalapeños were amazing. Most of the beer was alright with the exception of the rye pale ale and the stout . Highly recommended for Sunday football.
(4)
Keith W.
Great location but fell short in a quality meal. I ordered the mushroom burger (medium rare) and it came out medium with little to no flavor. It is advertised as a 1/2lb burger and it was work like 1/4lbs. The cole slaw was pretty good and the overall service was excellent. At my table the chicken wings and pizza meat monster received very good reviews, as well as the black bean burger. The price was average which goes along with the entire theme of Brewer's Alley. If you are looking for average food in a decent location then this is your place. I would recommend to try somewhere else first though.
(3)
Connie M.
Second time I ate here and this time was pretty bad. The beer was flat so we had to send it back (really, this is a brewery!). We ordered sandwiches which were pretty bad and had no taste served with cold fries. I could understand some slippage if the place was packed, but half the restaurant was empty. I won't be returning.
(2)
Ginny S.
25 Aug 2012 5:30 PM Accessibility :Right off Market Street and in the middle of everything! How can you miss it! :) It is also right in front of the parking Garage so if you cannot get parking on the street the Parking Garage is close by! 5 Stars for this location! Customer Service: We were greeted as soon as we entered by really friendly smiles. Our Waiter, Tom U. What a GREAT Guy! Funny and very passionate about the Beers. Hello gave us the entire run down and brought us a couple of samples. Hello brought a couple of kinds to taste. Checked on us frequently. Made some great recommendations for dinner and they did not let us down! We would definitely look for Tom next time and you should too. Definitely a 5 Star Customer Service for this place and visit! Menu: Wow - what is not on the menu! The Chef sure has things right here. Food - I had the Classic Alley Hamburger, Crispy Tobacco Onions and with French Fries. This is a truly wonderful and just one of the best I have had! Wow. If you love a Great Hamburger, get one here! Nice French Fries small slivers and crispy. Just the way I like them. I was not too big of the Onion slivers, but my Husband loved them! So my meal was a definite 5 Stars. My husband had the Fish and Chips, with Cole slaw. The Fish was good, but not a meal He would get again. They gave you one pretty large piece and was not greasy. So it "was good". He did love the French Fries! 3 Stars for him. We were with my Sister and her Husband so we thought we would also get a Desert - We got the very very light Boston Creme Pie. This was really a great way to end the meal. This was really good 5 Stars. My Sister and Husband had Vanilla Ice Cream. I will get this next time! WOW. 5 Stars for that. Beers - How could we come here and not have one of their famous Brewhouse creations! We had - Hefe-Weizen (My personal favorite!) (Perennial Seasonal Beer) A light Weizen beer. This was a great Beer! Kolsch (Year round) A little bitter but has a nice aroma. You cannot go wrong with either of these beers if you normally do not drink fancy Beers. 5 Stars for both of these. Question: Would we come back here again? DEFINITELY! Again and Again. We would highly recommend going to this great place. You will not be disappointed!!
(5)
Laura C.
Great food, generous portions, and beers brewed in-house. We had a salad and the conch chowder, plus a cheeseburger and kolsch-battered fish. The fish was very good, but the batter was a little soggy right next to the fish. The chowder was delicious, but some folks might think it had too much black pepper (not me!). Burger and fries were great. We also got a flight of their beers, at a very cheap $8 for six 5 oz glasses.
(4)
K C G.
1st time here. Great experience, fantastic food. Service was outstanding. My boyfriend got the blackened scallops special and said it was the best he ever had.
(4)
Cully R.
Visited on Christmas Eve with a part of five. We were seated at a table barely large enough for four but they added an extra chair. I guess that made it okay. Appetizers were good. French onion soup was only warm, not hot. Entrees were average. Disappointing since we had eaten there several times a few years back and were very impressed. Food was served very quickly but wait staff didn't check back for drink refills until meal was finished. When they did check back we had to ask them twice to simply remove our empty dishes. There are a lot of outstanding restaurants in the area. We probably will NOT be returning to Brewers any time soon. Merry Christmas!
(2)
Tom M.
I heard from family and friends that Frederick was really trying to liven up their downtown so on our way back to Hagerstown from DC, we decided to give it a try. Anything is better than Hagerstown's lame attempts. There weren't really a whole lot of options downtown that we could see in the dark but after a few passes on Patrick Street, we decided on Brewer's Alley. The front end of the place is most like a bar. It was crowded. noisy and annoying so the faster we could make our way through that area into the dining room, the better. When we got there however, we found ourselves wanting to be back in the bar, minus the throngs of people and the noise. The decor was unimaginative and boring, painted walls with photos and pictures that just didn't work. There was no sense of privacy in the dining room and the tables were crowded together. The lighting was so bright that I wished I had brought my sunglasses. By comparison, this place would pale next to micro breweries in Portland. The vibe just wasn't there. The fact that the "bosses" hovered obviously because there was no place for them to be was annoying, as well. The other thing I found really annoying was a lack of healthy options on the menu and I ended up having an entree salad and sweet potato fries. No meatless dishes or gluten-free options. Restaurants now days would do well to offer those things as more people become gluten intolerant or in other ways, conscious of things they put in their mouth. My partner said his mac and cheese was very good. Next time we're in the area, we'll probably look for something else. Nice try Brewer's Alley but you just missed the mark.
(2)
Sarah M.
I having been eating at Brewers Alley for the 6 years and have slowly seen a huge decline in the past 2 years. This used to be our families "hot spot" to go when people came to town, but after a multiple bad experiences we stopped taking people there due to poor food quality, anything besides the pizza is a HUGE disappointment. Servers in the bar area are down right offensive and obscenely rude, I was suckered in to going last Saturday night and the waitress in the bar area offended our whole group of 9 repeatedly and we ended up leaving without ordering food because of her attitude. This was once a landmark in Frederick and sadly has gone down hill very fast. If you do decide to go, stick to the pizza, stay away from the bar, and try the beer...its pretty good.
(1)
Richard M.
My wife and I went to brewers alley last weekend for the first time in years for me, she had never been. It was excellent. Got the beer sampler, fried pickles were best we ever had. Their IPA's are awesome. Service was top notch, our entrees were great, try the fish and chips, everything was reasonably priced. We cant wait to go again.
(5)
Shawn F.
What fantastic service, beer, and food! We were dining on the patio with our Labrador and a rain storm hit. The staff moved us into the vestibule with the dog and served us there. Another couple was there with their two large dogs and were also set up to dine with dogs. It was a great evening enjoyed by humans and the dogs! Thanks!!
(5)
Allison D.
I wouldn't say that Brewer's Alley is my favorite restaurant in Frederick, but it's certainly the restaurant that I find myself at most often. The greatest thing about it (besides the beer, which I'll get to in a moment) is that it's really like four restaurants in one, depending on your mood and preference. My favorite part is the bar; not just because it's "the bar", but because it has a dark and cozy pub feeling. If you're lucky enough to snag a table, you can hang out for several hours (hopefully enjoying their fabulous beer). Unfortunately, unless you get there early, you're not likely to find a table on the weekend. There is a more romantic upstairs area that is reserved for special occasion "course" dinners and private parties. The side dining room is a little less romantic/intimate, but still OK and I really don't like the back dining room at all. It's brightly lit and open and I always feel like I'm on display. They also have a patio with about ten tables but, unless you get there early, you're probably going to wait for a loooong time to sit out there. The food is good; some of it is fantastic and some of it makes you wonder what they were thinking. You can spend as much or as little as you want on food since they have everything from good-sized appetizers that could make a small meal to salads and sandwiches to full entrees. Their menu changes pretty regularly, so there are always new things to try. I'm adding this to my "Frederick Pizza Joints" list because I think they have the best pizza in Frederick. Some of the combinations of toppings are great and some belong in that what were they thinking category, but they are wood fired and awesome ( yelp.com/biz_photos/-9au… ). But, like I said before, the best thing about Brewer's Alley is the beer. Their oatmeal stout is the best I've ever had; so black that no light penetrates it. They have a beer sampler, so you can try any that you're not familiar with. They have about eight beers that are always available (including oatmeal stout) as well as several rotating seasonals. Usually there are about 12-14 beers to choose from. Their servers are great; many of them have been there since we first moved to Frederick in 2001...and extra special kudos to them for being open during Snowmageddon. They fed us and kept us drunk throughout the entire ordeal.
(4)
Sunny C.
Their oatmeal stout is the best stout I've had so far. Better than Guinness. Plenty of outdoor seating. Their pear pastry with cinnamon ice cream (limited time special) was divine. Plaintain mahi was creative and paired nicely with the spinach and potatoes. I had an enjoyable dining experience.
(4)
Susan S.
I'll be brief. This used to be a favorite restaurant. Now, I'll only eat pizza there. It's excellent, usually. Stay away from the more unorthodox combos- they promise big flavors and end up disappointing. I like the staff and bartenders. Atmosphere is good, too. Beer is excellent. I don't know when they started going downhill, but several changes of chefs in the past 20 years have left them near the bottom of the barrel. I'll pay for good food- but, they've run out of chances. How can you screw up a hamburger or pizza? Other than that, we don't eat there anymore.
(2)
Pengilicious E.
I've been here three times and always a disappointment! They have wide selections of draft. If you're thinking of having dinner then go somewhere else first then come here after dinner for drinks.
(2)
Jojo S.
The first two times i came to Brewer's Alley i thought people who complained about the food were crazy. My sandwiches were great, the beer was very good and you could sit outside. Service was a bit on a slow side, but pleasant enough. Sadly, that's where is stopped. In the next 5 visits i've seen food vary from poor to completely inedible. Why did i keep coming back against my better judgment? Propelled by memories of my first-time pleasant experience , and of course for the beer and outside sitting. However, after the last time, which was particularly bad, i'm done. Looks like they have some major kitchen management problems. No quality control seems to exist, and the waiters don't even look at the dishes they are brining (trust me, you just have to look at some of them to know better then to serve them). The waiters don't seem to be particularly surprised or apologetic when the food gets sent back. I guess it's something they got used to. Of course, because the service is so slow you are likely to not have another shot at your order. On the up side, they do credit you for dishes without question. Oh, and don't get excited when you see they have the wood pizza oven. They don't really know how to do it justice. At best, your pizza will be mediocre. Sorry, not even remotely up to par. What a shame, too, as the ingredients seem fine (before they get ruined by the kitchen that is). Get a drink and enjoy the outside, but don't count on having dinner there.
(2)
H B.
I can not for the life of me figure out how this place is always packed! I have been here 3 times and it has been terrible 3 times. Once I ate and had a few beers at happy hour and sat in the bar area- food was bad, beer was ok. So all in all, it wasn't worth the happy hour price. Second time we tried it for dinner. We even brought friends. 4 of us had burgers and 4 of us were sick after eating them. Not awesome. I feel worse for my friends because they had to drive back to DC after that! And the 3rd time we went with kids because it was open and was the only kid friendly place that had a table. It took us forever to get our food. Not going back. With so many great restaurants in Frederick- why would we!
(1)
Kimba G.
Now that I have been there a few times I have a good idea of the quality. They just remolded and changed a number of things. The place looks great! Love their Pulled Pork Sandwich, Pot Roast, Bread Pudding, etc. Everything I have had as been great! The service is good and it is consistent in the quality of food it services.
(3)
Hillary B.
I keep trying this place, the staff is always so nice, it's clean, and the beer is good but I have yet to eat a decent meal here. So disappointing. I have eaten here five times and each time try a different menu item. All taste-free, every time. But everyone is so nice.
(2)
Jeff Z.
Very good and a nice atmosphere. I had the fish tacos and they were delicious! I would have given them four stars but the $5 salad was rather small.
(3)
Katie H.
Unfortunately I had a REALLY bad experience here on Sunday November 10th. We showed up at 2 15 pm and there were 7 of us - 3 kids, 4 adults. When the beers were to be ordered, almost every one that our party asked for was OUT OF STOCK. The two beer drinkers settled for an IPA rather than the lagers they wanted originally. Appetizers were not so good - pork taquitos were greasy; crab dip tasted like 99% cheese with possibly ONE piece of crab meat :(. We waited more than 40 minutes for our food and when it arrived only two people were happy with their meals (kids). My soup of the day was out and I was not notified until after my meal was brought out (food arrived but no Portuguese sausage stew.... when my server came by, she seemed flustered. The woman who was bringing food out said they were out. I asked why I was being informed only now about it and not when my order was taken). My dad's chicken was bland and tasted like it had been cooked ages ago and just warmed up as an afterthought. My mom's mussels had one drop of sauce on it. My boyfriend's burger - ordered Medium Rare was definitely more Rare than he wanted it to be. Sad to say I do not think we will be coming back here, especially since we did not want to leave a tip due to the lack of beer selections, the wait for the food and the quality of the food. We were charged almost $25 in gratuity which was a rip off considering the quality of the food.
(1)
Eric E.
Not much in life I like better than a good brew pub, so I wish Brewer's Alley tried just a little harder. The food is pretty good, but several nearby joints are better. The beers are pretty good, but nothing really stands out. The service is good, the ambiance is good, and the crowd is pleasant. I will surely be back, but it seems they are coasting a bit because their downtown Market Street location is SWEET. Too bad.
(3)
Briana Leigh A.
what was ordered: (app) stuffed jalapenos (my) oatmeal stout beer pot roast w/ cheddar mash & celery root (special) (his) resinator beer wings french onion soup (dessert) blueberry crumble (sepcial) first of all, our beers were amazing and less than $4. you'll get five stars regardless. all of the food was delicious. i have absolutely no complaints. appetizer was tasty. his wings were crispy and had the perfect amount of sauce. his soup was perfect. great flavor and cheese was exactly how it should be - melted. (so often you order french onion soup, it comes out and you're sitting there wondering.. what the hell is this shit?) well, this was the kind of french onion soup you dream about. because the pot roast was on the special menu, it was a must try. i've tried stews and roasts from different restaurants that feature these items on their permanent menu and unfortunately, it's never cooked long enough. how do you charge $16+ and not properly.. "stew" it? there's nothing SPECIAL about it. but this was tender, flavorful and warming. delicious. i shared it with him because he made a very poor decision only getting wings and a soup. because the food was so surprisingly good, we ordered the dessert on the special menu. blueberry crumble was warm and full of blueberries. crust was crispy and added a great balance to the dish. our waitress was very sweet and attentive. will be returning and will be hitting the treadmill or Insanity. downtown Frederick has some great eats.
(5)
Jeff S.
Went here with my brother to enjoy some fine brews and get a bite to eat. We ended up skipping the food and went straight to the beer. We grabbed a sampler plate, 6 beers handpicked by our bartender - asked her to pick her favorite. We ended up trying everything they had. No real standouts, although their IPA and Dopplebock were very solid. They had one of those bourbon cask-aged brews...it tasted like it belonged in a tumbler topped off with Coke - not necessarily a bad thing, just not my cup-O-tea. The bar area was pretty nice. Definitely a place for beer geeks to congregate in the Frederick area. I would probably come here again if in that part of town, but I will definitely have to give the kitchen a try for a more complete review.
(3)
Michael Z.
Got the special of the day. The fish was good, a little small in portion but it was delicious.
(4)
Charlie B.
Great food, beer and service. Had the BBQ sandwich, and tried the andouille pizza, both were awesome. Service was really good also, responsive and friendly at all times. Highly recommend going for anything from HH to a formal dinner. Easy to rate this one... 5 stars.
(5)
Lily B.
Perfect upscale twist to classic bar food and beer brewed on site. Enjoy fried pickles and Mac n cheese bites. Gluten free beer should be on the menu soon. A good go-to bar.
(3)
Brigette K.
The beer and bar atmosphere is great! This building is amazing. Gets kinda busy though. Wednesday is Cajun Night. Opera House IPA is amazing (when they have it!)
(4)
Ryan P.
Fourth or fifth time here and it seems to be getting more average (read "worse") every time. The fried, Panko breaded dill spears were very good, but the caesar salad was an overpriced joke and the service was a bit slow given a mostly empty dining room. I've had nearly great food here in the past, so here's to hoping this downward trend ends soon. I will always applaud Brewer's Alley for their beer selection and great location.
(2)
Tom W.
My wife and I stopped here for some light appetizers and a brew. With all of the choices in Frederick, we should have found another place. First, I really wanted to like the Alley so maybe my expectations were a little high. We both ordered the 1634 pint. Although $3.67 is cheap for a pint, this beer is not good. It's a little watery and doesn't have the proper head. I can't speak to the other beers they brew since we didn't have them. We ordered the Shrimp and Avocado Timbale. This is good but c'mon, it's a few shrimp, a few pieces of avocado, some mayo, and lemon juice...for 11 bucks. Oh wait, I forgot, it has a toasted piece of bread with it. It's still 11 bucks and that's crazy. We also had the Poblano and Crab dip. This came with broken corn chips that were from a giant bag. Although the dip was ok, you could tell it was mostly sour cream. Again, this app is 11 bucks. More craziness. So 2 pints and 2 apps for $31.32. I know Frederick can be a little pricey but this is a little on the high side. Probably will be back at some time just because we love breweries but this place is no longer on the "must go" list.
I visited this spot twice and have been satisfied on both occasions. On my first visit I ordered an Alley Burger I believe it was to satisfying results. I came back with family on the second trip and had the Caribbean Chicken with Mango Salsa which I thought was great. My woman got the surf and turf and the crab-cake. I also would recommend the grilled tilapia which we also thought was pretty good.
(5)
Jenn C.
I recently went to a wedding here on the 2nd floor. The place is gorgeous with lots of charm. I enjoyed the food - I had grilled chicken marsala with mashed potatos, which was excellent. I tried the steak, which was also very good, and my sister had the crab cake which she enjoyed very much. The staff were pleasant, and I never got the feeling of being rushed. All in all, a great experience!
(4)
Colleen F.
Brewer's Ally is a staple in my family. They have good beer, and a creative menu. A vegetarian can usually find something interesting to eat, although less so than in previous years. The restaurant is kid friendly. The cheese stuffed pretzel with ranch dressing is a must.
(4)
Chef A.
For my last visit, I had lunch with a Japanese photographer friend of mine. We caught up on old times and BS'ed over the future of Leica cameras, Japan's world cup football match, and why people who watch bowling on TV are idiots. He had a crab cake, and I just had a faux Guinness which I did not care for. Having had perfect pints in Dublin, it's a bit hard to drink an American Stout. On a trip prior however I had a pilsner and it was ok. Nothing too special, but I can appreciate the local home brew micro-pubs. Also on the last trip I had a burger, made from buffalo and it was pretty good with no complaints. I like this place to be honest, though it's price point is a slight turn off to me. And the beer was nothing special. Still, it's a ncie place to had a quality meal, and BS with friends.
(3)
Thomas B.
Favorite spot for locally brewed beer on tap. Great selection of quick eats and entrees. Try the pizzas too. Good stuff. Take a growler home with you after it is said and done and keep the party going at home.
(4)
Kjirsten K.
I was in Frederick for one week and out of all the restaurants I tried, this was the best. The crab cake with potato puree and asparagus was delicious and so was the beer. The restaurant is large with plenty of seating, a bar area, and a very nice outdoor patio. My biggest regret is not making it back here one more time before I left. See you next time Brewer's Alley!
(5)
Amanda C.
Delicious food and beer. I highly recommend the Riot Rye and the lamb burger. Also great service: we had to wait quite a while on a First Saturday, and they compd us a round.
(5)
Hannah M.
We had dinner at Brewer's Thursday night for Lobster Night. Little did we know, it was also NY Sirloin night. My daughter had lobster. The rest of us had the steak. All of it was outstanding. We were surprised that we didn't get steak knives but we didn't need them. The steaks were so tender. The only minor complaint I have is the drinks weren't refilled unless we requested. But they were very busy. Still a pleasant evening out.
(4)
Karin S.
Beer good, but that's about it. Burgers were ok, but appetizers and fries were typical greasy, tasteless, fried bar food. A friend with us actually got a little sick (nausea)about an hour after eating there. Place was kind of musty. Not the upbeat, fun place we expected. Blah.
(2)
Johnny L.
Excellent place! Sometimes service is a little slow for lunch on weekends, but the food is delicious and the staff are personable, friendly, and fun. I recommend the Reubens, they make their own corned beef and it's phenomenal. And the apple and goat cheese pizza is fantastic.
(4)
Amy A.
The food is good and they will make any adjustments or accommodations you want/need for dietary purposes. The wait staff is very nice and tastes everything so they know what to recommend. I am not a beer drinker but everyone I have went with loves their beer. Highly recommend and my children also like it eat there.
(5)
Nicole A.
I really want to be able to leave a better review. I love sitting outside here and the beer is good. The issue is the only thing here that is consistently decent is the pizza. I have been twice very recently and sat on the puppy patio the most recent visit being last night. The first time I got fish and chips and the fish was really bad. It had an off fishy smell to it and it had obviously been sitting because it was very soggy. It just wasn't edible. The server disappeared after we got our food but if he hadn't I would have sent it back for something else. By the time he came back my husband was done eating so I didn't bother but only could eat the fries. I told him about the issue but he shrugged it off and said they were busy. Last night I got the chicken sandwich. The chicken was good, issue is they forgot ALL toppings and sauce. I got the server to bring me toppings on the side later to add but by the time I got them the sandwich was cold. The manager came out to apologize but honestly I feel like they should have given me something off the bill. He just said to next time order the wrap since it holds the ingredients better. I think not. Also both visits we had serious issues getting drinks refilled. I drink a lot of water I will admit, but the servers just disappear and when one comes out with iced tea and water they only fill for their tables unless you make a large animated effort to flag them down. Both visits we sat with no drinks for a large portion of the time. I would think they would at least make a better effort to refill beer. Not all is bad, both of these times my husband has ordered a pizza and both times it has been very good. The fresh mozzarella is awesome and the pizza gets a great flavor from the wood oven. Also they have very good French fries. Would I go again? Possibly if I was downtown with my dogs and really wanted pizza but I wouldn't get anything other than pizza since they couldn't even get a sandwich right. Because of the issues with drink refills though I'd probably be more likely to hit the golden mile for Il Forno pizza. The service has been much better there.
(2)
Michael C.
I was not impressed with their overall services. They have not met my service needs. Their beers were "meh ok" but have had much better beers from other Maryland Micro Brew. The food quality was so-so. I have had better burger and fries from other micro brews in Maryland and other state.
(1)
Abigail O.
this is a really fun and classy place in such a cool area. i love how frederick has turned into a destination town (for me, anyway) where you can spend the whole evening going to shops, restaurants and bars, and not have a hellish parking experience. the beers here are good, but as with other reviews, the seasonals are better than the standards... i always find that kind of weird. wouldn't your standards be the ones you did best, instead of just picking one light/pils, one amber, one hoppy, and one dark/porter/stout? i appreciate being well-rounded, but i'd rather have high quality than variation. but i digress. the food here is pretty excellent. mac and cheese was standard (i.e. awesome), pork butt was so good that those of us who didn't get it stole it off the others' plates. service was very good both times i went (once with a large party upstairs, and once with my boyfriend at the bar). i'll definitely be going back when i make it to frederick again!
(4)
Jon K.
A solid 4 stars, would have gotten 5 if this review was written a few years ago. First things first, lets get to the beer. This place has excellent beers and they brew them on the premises. I had never thought I would find one of these type of places that does an excellent job on brewing their beer and excellent food. The interior of this place looks half bar and half restaurant. It's in a historic part of Frederick and the building that it's nestled away in might even be a historic building. They have several TV's in the bar area and inside and outside dining areas as well. The only thing that irks me about this place is I have been eating here for several years and I always get the pizzas or the crab cake platter. Well, they used serve two large crab cakes on a platter surrounded by veggies and such (these are fantastic). I noticed a few years ago they started to only serve one and cut down on the portion size (no cut in price though). Anyway, it's not that big of deal I guess because everyone is trying to control costs because of inflation but I come here less often now because of that (there are many fantastic options in this area). By the way, both the pizza and crab cakes are fantastic here. The service here is top notch and we have always been well taken care of by the staff. Give it a try if you're in the Frederick area.....
(4)
Matt K.
I lived in downtown Frederick for 2 years, and this place served me well many a time. This place is well worth a visit if you're looking for good beer and pretty good food. They make their own beers and they are pretty tasty. I am a fan of IPA but if you're a coors light (water) guy, then the Kolsch is probably the closest beer to your speed. People rag some of the food here, but you have to know what to get. Pizzas, burgers, wings, nachos, salads are good. They got good wing sauce and a very nice house vinaigrette. Blackened tilapia is very good. Their salmon tends to be a little fishy, and any fancy dish that sounds intricate might be a little risky. The sweet potato fries are a must!! They have rock salt on them and are cooked perfectly!! It can get crowded on the weekends on account of the meat heads that show up. You might see a few popped collars from guys that just got done lifting at Gold's but it isn't all that bad. Happy hours 4-9 on Mondays and Tuesdays! 2.50 house drafts! You gotta love a happy hour that doesn't end at 6. They also have $5 appetizers that go very well with a brew. So go, have a good beer, take home a growler if you find a brew you really like, and don't expect Volt-style panache. The bar area is very warm and comforting due to the hardwood.
(4)
Anne M.
Great food and beverage selection. Delicious !!!!! Our party of 5 enjoyed large scrumptious servings delivered promptly. Everything (including the decor and bathroom) was just right. Our server Heather is a wonderful server;RIGHT ON :-D
(5)
Nick L.
Not at all impressed. I do have to say the beer was good though. We ordered a small pizza and it took well over 30 minutes to come out. When it finally arrived it was cold and soggy. The server graciously took it back as she should but we were starving and did not want to wait for a new one. We paid the bar tab and headed down the street.
(2)
Sher Y.
Pizza was amazing and prices were also on par. I also had the California Pizza. Delicious. yes yes it was.
(4)
M F.
I have been to Brewer on quite a few occasions but mainly for drinks. Yesterday a group of us from work decided to have lunch at Brewers... and probably will never go back for lunch, but will continue to visit for happy hours and drinks. We were greeted by the friendly staff but that is where the service stopped. We were a party of 7 and not the only group in the dining room. The wait staff was less than tentative. It took approximately 20 min before our orders were taken, took another 45 min to receive our appetizers another 30 min to receive our lunches. At this point we are up to an hour a half... mind you we were on a lunch from work... upon receiving our food we requested our checks. Steak sandwich was over cooked; the chicken fingers had a hair in it and were sent back. The manager did offer to bring out another steak sandwich and chicken fingers. I'm sorry but after the hair, I was not hungry and no one wanted to wait any longer for food. Due to the time already wasted waiting we also asked for boxes for ALL of our food to go. We were offered 2 free desserts for the wait (O this took another 20 min of a wait). After requesting boxes and our checks, they were not received for another 30 min... An ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!!!! Another complaint was made to the manager and 1/2 of our food was comp'd to us.... Still absolutely horrible service and wait time. I'm not sure what happened or why... but there were other tables of 4+ who came in after our group and left before our group. Still the place was not busy. Funny, there was another table that actually got up to leave and asked for their checks on the way out the door. We did not order anything difficult or that should have taken so long to cook: Margarita Pizza Chicken Salad Sandwich Chicken Fingers Chicken Sandwich Steak Sandwich Mac n cheese Rueben Sandwich Sorry but this shouldn't have taken that long. Horrible visit won't be back for lunch ever!!!!!
(1)
Adam O.
Food was good. Prices were reasonable.
(4)
Li D.
This is an "okay" brew pub. The beer and the burgers are good. I had the California burger, which was tasty and quite large. The wings (appetizer) was so-so. Service was efficient. We sat in the back room, which was very crowded.
(3)
Matt W.
Love this place. The bar area is a little small, but that's standard in downtown Frederick. The restaurant is pretty good, and so is the food. I love the beers that are brewed on site. Pretty low key most of the time, meaning that it's a great place to go if you don't want a band blaring in your ear all night.
(5)
Brad B.
The only saving grace was the beer. We ordered Margarita Pizza. Unfortunately, it had so much garlic in the sauce we couldn't eat but a bite or two. They did take it off our bill without us asking though. Place was super snooty on the Saturday evening we were there.
(1)
Renee Z.
My family moved to Frederick in 2008. We use to come to Brewery's Alley all the time it was our go to place when we had company. The food was good, the beer was good, and the service was great as well. That was the way it use to be! As in recent visits the service has been poor and wait times terrible! We recently went this weekend as my mother in law and mother were in town we wanted a quick bite well that was a joke. We were sat on the puppy patio which they said there were signs out front that all 3 of us missed that said that. We were not informed of it as well when sat if I would have known I would have gladly sat inside or waited for a spot out front. I saw dogs jumping on tables, staff petting dogs, giving treats, and not for sure if they washed their hands. I was so grossed out! As were my guests. I would have gladly waited or ate inside if we were informed before my daughter received her food. We ate, the food was ok the beer was still good, the server barely came around. We then got our checks we paid and left. Today I looked at my bank statement as I usually do each day. I noticed I was charged 4 separate times! The server apparently swiped my moms bill on my account which they said was a mistake by the waiter (which he never informed me about)they said the charges was returned, which was not reflected as my bank shows refunds. The lady I spoke to who was a manger was rude and condescending about what had just happened instead of making it right! When you go out to eat at a place you expect good service since you are paying for it, well if you are looking for that I would not go here! We will no longer after this visit as it was the straw that broke the camels back!!! I hope brewers alley takes a look at this and looks at their staff and their costumer service practices as they are piss poor at best. I WILL NEVER GO HERE AGAIN! Which is sad since we use to love it.
(1)
Susan T.
I spent a lot of time in Frederick, MD recently and this is one of those "go-to" locations. They have an outdoor patio and there are always people waiting for a table. The nachos were good, our waitress was funny and nice. And the beer...we tried a seasonal ale...1649 or something like that...that is made from an old brewers recipe. Although this isn't mentioned on their beer list...it's our favorite and we were told they were going to start brewing this in bottles at the end of the year. You can get "growlers" and "mini kegs" and "kegs" of their ales...just call the brewmasters to find out what is available. The "growlers" stay fresh for 2 weeks. I'm planning to go get some growlers for my trip to Edisto Beach in May I like this beer so much...LOL. I do think you should stick with sandwiches, salads and pizza as far as food...but this place has a regular clientele and is popular. It is a good hang out place...
(4)
Victoria Z.
Whether I'm here for lunch or dinner Brewer's has yet to disappoint me as well as everyone else in Frederick so keep that in mind on the weekend! For some reason I am addicted to their sauteed asparagus and their mac n' cheese. I think Brewer's appeals to many because of their homemade ale and their wood oven pizzas. They have a creative selection as well as daily specials. I have yet to get unfriendly waitstaff. I love the feel of this old building, especially when I park in the garage behind it and can smell the food on the way in and check out the stained glass windows.
(4)
Katie Y.
Brewers beer and burgers are so incredibly good that whenever I have to travel north from DC, I take Route 270 instead of 95 just so I can pass through Frederick to chow down on a burger, regardless of my level of hunger, and throw back a pint of hand-crafted beer. I've had a few of their other dishes, but really, just stick with the burgers, which are made with local grass-fed beef and accompanied with delicious thin-cut fries. Plan on spending $9 for this burger heaven, and plan on leaving fully satisfied. They advertise on the menu that they source as much as their food as possible from truly local farmers, yet they don't jack up the prices or attempt to be fancy-pants haute-cuisine. This is pub-food done right - tasty but without the grease overload (burgers, reubens, salads, pizzas, etc). Pints of their amazing beer cost UNDER $4 (no, that's not strictly a happy-hour price) and around $10 to fill up a 2-Liter Growler (initial $15 deposit on the oh-so-cool glass growler). Their Oatmeal Stout (6.7% alc.) is incredibly smooth, their Hefeweizen is sweet and slightly tangy, their Nutbrown Ale is delish, and their Maibock (7% alc.) is also Growler-worthy. Trinity Stout is a bit too bitter for me, but great nonetheless. On my last visit, the people next to us at the bar ordered Bud Light, which nearly shot an arrow through my heart. If I owned a car, I would regularly be trekking out here to fill up growlers with this delectable affordable beer - there's no need to drink something like Bud Light when this is around! Sit in the front bar area that is shadowed by the giant beer vats, or the patio if the weather permits - don't bother with the back restaurant area, which is loud and crowded and a bit too sterile as far as atmosphere goes. I would bump up the rating to five stars if the staff was just a little more interested and friendly, rather than apathetic and acting like they're from Philly or B'more. Come on - you're from a small town. You're supposed to be sweet and helpful and stuff - don't shatter this city gal's image of small-town life!
(4)
Malarie B.
This is a cute place that always seems to be hoppin'. It's a staple of the area now, and pretty much everyone here will know where and what you are talking about when you bring up this place. This place is owned by the same people who own and run Isabella's and, frankly, it's the weaker of the two. This place is great for families and groups. Lots of space and seating! The food was good, not wonderful but good. And, unfortunately, my beer (the IPA) was almost entirely flat, as was my friend's. Kind of a huge disappointment when going to BREWERS alley, but meh. The service was delightful and I wasn't disappointed with my food, so all in all, I think this is a fine space to check out if you are in the area.
(3)
Chris K.
My friend and I went on a week night. We heard their pizza was delicious, not to mention their brews. Service was quick and friendly. We got our pizzas -- gosh I can't remember the names but mine was the ranch chicken and hers was the plain cheese. She got the 1868 (?) beer, and I got the oatmeal stout. Our waitress was friendly and accommodating. We stayed an extra 40 minutes after our meal was over and tipped for that inconvenience. I would definitely recommend this place for its pizzas and beer.
(4)
Ginger W.
I used to really dislike this place because when my family goes out to dinner, we tend to stick with the quiet, nicer end of things. Previous experiences over the years were pretty consistent, with an extremely loud dining room of people drinking Bud Light pitchers. You get the idea. Kids running everywhere, and adults acting like children, it really wasn't our family's kind of place. That said, I have been back recently multiple times and it has improved my overall opinion. I would still say that this is not a place to bring a quiet family or a date. It is not intimate, romantic, quiet, civilized, relaxing, upscale, or with a noise level suitable to having conversation without being hoarse. However, there are still things it does very well, and I am a firm believer in judging a place on what it appears to be striving for and not just on the qualities that I personally have moods for. Brewer's Alley has excellent beer and beer-related food. My personal favorites are the 1634 and IPA. I am a beer sipper, so I don't generally get more than a glass of something, but I am much more focused on the different flavors and things. They do a good job. The food is really bar food, done well. The calamari is an awesome snack, and they make some delicious burgers. It's not pretentious food, but its good food, and with beer, that's the important thing. Brewer's Alley is an awesome place to chill and eat outside, particularly if you have a dog. They are really nice about helping people with dogs get in and out easily and quickly. The little patio area really is a people-watching mecca for locals. Everyone walks by there, and it gets some nice sun without being boiling hot. I really enjoy it, even if I am just passing through. Brewer's Alley has some excellent service. It is prompt, kind, and generally populated by people who know the area and are from the area. At a neighborhood brewery, that's really what you want to see. Brewer's Alley does a lot to contribute to the town resident night life in downtown Frederick (not just Friday and Saturday nights) and also to be an active part of the downtown community, without being at all pretentiously "suburbs of DC" about it. They have free gumbo, lots of tvs for games, and a pretty busy scene on busier days. There is always something going on.
(3)
Oj M.
Great place to hang out in Frederick. I tried the Meatless Sloppy Joe - the sauce was made w/ more sugar than tomato. I will stick with pizza from next time. If you get a sandwich or burger, get sweet potato fries as a side - they were yummy. We usually site in the dining area, but on Saturday night we stayed in the bar and the music was way too loud - maybe bc it was a Sat night?
(3)
Luisita S.
The menu at Brewer's Alley is always more appetizing than the actual food. If you stick with the sandwiches or salads, you'll do well. Anything more complicated is beyond the kitchen's capabilities.
(2)
Ann S.
Good beer, yummy Blue Point oysters, okay salads, nice evening w/ the peeps kinda place.
(4)
Laura T.
After a few hours of shred time at Liberty, we rolled into town looking for some good food and drinks. We stumbled upon Brewer's Alley and hoped to find some space in the bar area. Friday night about 7:30pm.... no luck. So we grabbed a table in the dining area. The menu was loaded with so many choices, it was almost too difficult to choose just one thing for dinner. The lobster and shrimp mac N cheese jumped off the special menu, and my decision was made. Only when I received my entree, I was disappointed that the pasta and sauce seemed more like a cheesy alfredo sauce lightly blanketing large, smooth, tubular pieces of pasta, than a hearty, gooey blend of noodles and cheese delightfully fused together. Otherwise, the shrimp and lobster were plentiful, but the mac N cheese itself was rather disappointing. However, the fresh bread, home made soups I tasted (MMM! potato and artichoke), and drinks were on point. Both friends enjoyed their entrees (chicken/lobster pot pie & the tilapia entree), and I was happy that my scotch was a nice full serving presented shortly after we placed our drink orders. I like the casual atmosphere, and menu that has a mix of lighter fare plus larger plate entrees. The dessert menu also looked incredibly enticing, but we decided to save that for another day. Despite my less than satisfying dish, I was still able to achieve that warm, relaxed and cozy feel. And after a day on the slopes, that is really all that matters.
(3)
Addison T.
I had high hopes for this place after reading some of the reviews. It ended up being just ok. We ordered the surf and turf on lobster night and it was such a good price! We also ordered the sampler of beers. The beers seemed watered down. Also there was a bug that kept crawling on my husband. At least I hope it was one bug and not different ones. Again trying to give the benefit of the doubt because the have at outdoor area and anything could crawl in. The oysters were good! All in all it was worth 3.5 stars.
(3)
Sean M.
Great food. I'm not sure who the chef is here but he/she does an excellent job, So far we've had the steak, lobster and fried fish and it has all been exceptional. The side dishes are not the best around but the home made beer and cheap yet delicious mixed drinks make up for that. Not to mention the great service. Will definitely suggest to friends.
(5)
Stephanie S.
Good beer, good food, unique atmosphere: that's how I'd sum up Brewer's Alley. You can go to this place for a lunch, dinner, or just for drinks. I should know, I've done all three. :) The last time I went, I had a great meal off their lunch menu. This was the first time I had lobster bisque, so I can't really compare to others. I CAN say that I would definitely have it again. I also had one of their featured sandwiches: bacon, goat cheese and greens on ciabatta bread. I'm not sure of the specific name, but I'll just call it Deliciousness. The bacon was carmelized, I believe. It definitely wasn't super crispy, like on a BLT. Other things I would recommend: their pizza (I've had the pepperoni) and their Nut Brown Ale. It's probably one of the most delicious beers I've ever had. The only down side: I think the front end of their dining room has a distinct smell of cleaners. Like the odor you smell sometimes when you sit at a bar where the dirty rags are stored. I can't really explain it, but it definitely hits you as soon as you enter the dining room. Try to get a table on the far end, away from the kitchen, if possible.
(4)
Marilyn e.
Stopped for lunch at the Brewer's Alley 01/02/12 and was very disappointed. The food was mediocre and the service from the kitchen was SLOW!!! Sweet potato fries had way too much salt and were barely warm. The hamburger was dry. Fish tacos were okay. Probably the most irritating thing about our experience there was the staff cleaning with a roller vacuum all around us while we were trying to eat and have a conversation. Also, I find this not to be very sanitary. Our server, Danielle, was very good and the best thing about Brewer's Alley. But won't be returning. I've heard there are too many other good places to eat in Frederick.
(1)
Diane T.
It was our first trip to Frederick and we were really looking forward to Brewer's Alley. We weren't disappointed. We had good timing. It was about 1pm and we got the last two seats at the bar. after that, the place was jammed. I really like their Dunkle Weis, but that's probably because it was lighter than your usual Dunkle. I would consider it a cross between a Hefeweisen and Dunkle Weis. Boyfriend like the IPA the best out of what he tried. The bartenders were friendly and had no problem filling us in on all the nuances of their beer. I think they had about 12 on draft, including their 1634 ale, which is supposed to be a rye-based colonial ale. For lunch I had the sliders. At first I was concerned because it was $8 for only 2-sliders, but they were pretty thick for sliders and loaded with cheese and carmelized onions, so those little hamburgers kept me going all day. There are so many restaurants in Frederick that look so inviting and I'd like to try them on future trips, but I think I'll find a way to fit in Brewer's Alley, as well.
(4)
Ryan P.
Returned to Brewers after over a year since my first experience. Again just meh. Nothing to write home about to say the least. We both got beers, Kolsch and the Seasonal Chocolate (Can't remember the name). The Kolsch was good, but not light enough for a true Kolsch in my opinion. The Chocolate beer was one of the worst chocolate brews I have ever had. It needed a twist of something in it to pick it up, either cherry or raspberry to give it some depth. However the beer was the only positive yet again of this place. Our party got varied dishes. We started with the Crab and Poblano Cheese Dip. What a waste of money. I could've easily put together the cream cheese and cheap canned crap concoction that this was. I didn't even find any pepper what so ever in it, pretty bland and more cream cheese than crab for sure. I had the Portabella Burger and thought it was okay at best, the mushrooms were a bit tough and needed longer on the grill. My partner and I both got those skimpy fries again. Hate them! Another member of our party got the Caesar Salad with Chicken, and said it was the worth the salad she's had. The lettuce was mostly the stalks of the romaine rather than the leave and the dressing was bland and oily. I mean if you can't do a simple Caesar salad right, then just get out of the biz! The pizza the other person in our party ordered was greasy and slightly burnt from the looks of me. Overall I would skip this place all together, I don't think the third time is the charm, nor will they get one from me!
(2)
Xopher D.
Great for the brews -- and totally average for food. Been here a few times with large groups in town for business. Service has always been stellar, even to the point of separate checks for parties of 10 or more. And the selection and quality of brews matches the service. There's always something for anyone who likes beer: from light bubbly lagers to deep dark stouts. Well now, the food is just okay. The burgers are fine, the gumbo is fine, the salads are fresh, but nothing is spectacular. And for the prices charged, you'd expect a bit more. You're paying for location here, not culinary je ne sais quois. But like the name says, it's really all about the beer. Drink up!
(3)
M L.
Friend and I went here while exploring downtown Frederick. We roamed around for awhile looking for just the right spot and found this place. The large windows offer a great people-watching venue with a nice cold brew in hand. I originally sat facing away from the window, but ended up sitting next to my friend to face the street, checking out the downtown crowd. The food was pretty good, standard bar fare. The beer selection wasn't bad either with options ranging from local to better known brews. There's something hoppy or more fruity for everyone. The server was great...knowledgeable, personable and attentive. There was also an outside seating area that looked very chill, but it was a hot summer day. I would definitely check out this place again.
(4)
Ze W.
This is probably a great place for beer- I liked the space and friendly service, but sadly the food was just not desirable. We had fried fish tacos, fried chicken sandwich, and steak salad with fried onions- everything fried (all of it) tasted of old frying oil, and overfried. I just couldn't eat it. Really disappointing, but if I were to ever be back, I'd stick with the beer. Four stars for friendliness and accommodation; 2 for actual food... Oh, but I'd forgotten about the chicken soup, which I loved. I'd come back for soup and beer, if anyone ever forced me back...
(3)
Racha H.
My husband and I have been going to Brewer's Alley for a long time. We live in the near by Germantown. The brew there is a draw, but the food is great too. Not the average bar food. There's something for everyone. The woodfire Pizza is also very good. The menu changes some with the season but a few all time fav, like the meatloaf, is always on. Our latest visit was a week ago. We had fried calamary for appetizer. It was fresh and battered and fried just right. Not the frozen stuff some restaurant served. My new personal favourite is the souhthern fried chicken. Very generous portion. The chicken is tender, juicy, and boneless! Sreved with a heap of delish mash potato and white gravy on the top. The gravy was a bit too rich for me. I should have asked for it on the side. The veggie that came with the chicken could have been better because it was the height of summer, instead, the veggie was a soggy disappointing mess. My husband had the lobster. Yes, we were there at Lobster Night ! No surprise there, all good. The lobster came with a salad and fresh crispy fries. Haven't had a bad meal there yet, and hope never, ever will.
(3)
M. M.
I stopped here for lunch while in town and found it to be a serviceable brewpub, nothing fancy. Apparently their patio is the big draw - in addition to enjoying nice weather you can take your dog out there (and I did see dogs on the patio). However, be warned the patio is teeny compared with the rest of the restaurant. The patio was of course full with a waiting line, and I had no dog with me, thought it looked like rain, and would just as soon not have to bat bugs away from my plate, so I opted to sit indoors. I got a booth to myself right away in that manner, although it was in a darkish back room of the restaurant which frankly could use an interior decorating upgrade. I didn't get anything adventurous in the way of food, just soup, oysters (they had 2 kinds) and tried a couple of small beers. It's hard to go wrong with oysters. The menu of beers they brew seemed a bit pedestrian - no unusual seasonals or anything - but the beer was good and I got a growler to take home. The server was very attentive. I would eat here again, it's an okay pub lunch stop. But I can see where the patio would fill up fast or pose a problem if a live band was playing, because it is small. Next time I would probably ask to be indoors in the front room where it is better lit and would feel less like eating in someone's finished basement.
(3)
Kyle D.
First time here and the experience was just as bad as going to McDonalds at 12 am with Oscar the grouch as your server. I made reservations and was seated almost right away. The server was fairly rude but he seemed to cheer up a little over time. The pizza was delicious! It did come to the table cold. I'd give this place another shot but it may be a while.
(3)
Sonya P.
The food can be hit or miss depending on menu items. Best time to go is for happy hour because they have excellent specials, sometime free food, and good service. The bar area can get rowdy but that's typical. The tap beers are just ok, but the sampler is fun and an affordable way to pick your brew.
(4)
Chelsea R.
Edited to one star because a server from there sent me a hateful message. Hope you enjoy watching your rating plummet, guys. First, let me just say that I am not that into pub food. But I went here because the Frederick city website said that I this place is dog friendly. I had my four legged buddy, who weighs approximately 10 lbs, attached to my stroller, which had my baby in it. The hostess immediately looked like a deer in headlights because I had my dog with me, and when I told her that the website said that dogs were welcome, she said that they don't normally allow them because some people on the patio might not like dogs. She also added that they sometimes-only sometimes- have a "dog patio". I guess the moral of the story is to call before you park in a parking garage and walk there. And I wasn't welcome to bring my stroller with my child in it on to the patio, either. If you're in a wheelchair, I guess you're out of luck. You'll take up far too much room and the waitress will get snippy. On to the food-I had a "Sunday Special" mimosa which was made with something cheap and the thinnest orange juice I've ever seen. Not a great presentation. I had the fish and chips and it was ok, except that the chips were cold, which isn't surprising because we waited for a long time for our food. The batter is flavorless and crumbly on the fish, and the tarter sauce was closer to an aioli than any tartar sauce I've ever had. It is so runny you can pour it out, and it smells of horseradish. The entire visit took 90 minutes and they weren't even very busy. There were also other people waiting with dogs, but I didn't stick around to find out how they were treated. In summary, this is my second trip to Brewer's Alley and I will probably try the other more dog friendly spots downtown next time.
(1)
Dean W.
We ordered the Quattro Fromaggio Pizza (it came with blue cheese!); it had a really yummy crust. Also the crab cake was very good, Very tasty long island and baked mac N cheese.
(5)
Mary B.
If you need a place to eat that caters to several different taste palettes (and perhaps a picky kid) Brewers is a great choice. There's a reason this place is always packed. The food is good, the beer they brew is great (try their kolsch- mmmm) and the atmosphere is lively. Unless you get there early, plan to never get a seat at the bar- it's just too busy. The old charm of the building itself plus being right in the Heart of Downtown Frederick makes it a good place to bring out of towners. Plus it's so big- you can almost always be seated without a reservation, except maybe for First Saturdays. For food, I enjoy their fish & chips. They also hVe great wood fired pizzas and big salads. For kids there's s ton of stuff. In the summers they open out onto their parking lot and have a pooch patio. They have live music out there, too. We enjoy bringing our dog down and having dinner there. Other people must, too, because it's always filled with pups and their owners.
(5)
Keith L.
Food is good. Patio is nice, however they allow smokers to smoke directly next to the patio. I said something to my server and nothing was done about it. They didn't care that it bothered us. Other tables were complaining also. If you don't like to breath in second hand smoke, eat inside.
(3)
Calvin M.
The beer is cheap. Good place to hang out and drink a few. The food, I'm not impressed. Had the fried scrod and falafel. Just wasn't impressed. The fish was very greasy. I'll come back for the beer.
(3)
Rick G.
Great place for quick snack, dinner, to meet for drinks. A place for your 4 legged friends a porch for doggies when the weather is good ... A place to hang, or dine ----- one of the best places in Frederick
(5)
David M.
I just wasn't a fan. It came highly recommended, and I had been here once before for a quick lunch, but that was years ago. This visit was not impressive. The main dining room was small and had that look about it as if it has not been updated since the mid 80's. The bar area looked pretty nice , but for this trip we were only passing through it. The beer was decent taste-wise, but flat. As if their co2 cans were spent. I had two different kinds. Both were flat. And one was a Pilsner, you beer snot. ;) I reckon I should have seen a bubble or two in that. The sandwiches we got were simply lame. I had the brewer's hoagie. My wife had the brisket sandwich. Boring. Both of them. Our server was just off. He was perhaps about to get off work soon since he seemed to be rushing us along. I had a handful of sandwich and he came and took my plate away lol. He asked us "uhm. You all don't want dessert, do you?" We didn't. But it was so awkward. That, and the sweeping around our table. It was just weird. I doubt highly we will wind up going back.
(2)
m. o.
Pretty good brewpub food, as long as you're prepared to wait quite a bit on a weekend to get a table, and then subsequently to get served your meal. If you do go, recommend sitting outside if it is nice or in the front room (rather than the back room) if you eat inside. The back room is devoid of character and noisy. The burgers and chicken BLT was good food and good value. The service was okay.
(3)
Kacie D.
Went for a beer- my husband ordered his and it smelled/tasted horrible. Bartender never came back to ask me what I would like to drink and then charged my husband for his beer that he didn't touch- not even asking if something was wrong. Our 2nd time going there and dealing with this very unpleasant bartender.
(1)
Jim G.
Would love to tell you to go here. I have known the brewer since my 1995 and really want to support them. Unfortunately, the beer is common. It's a cool place because there isn't anything better. If you like true to style (i.e gauge beer) by all means, stop by and enjoy. If you want your beer to be over the top or different, keep going. NOW.. I will say, the 1634 was interesting. The caroway was overpowering. Tasted like drinking rye bread, but it was interesting. The other beers, (5 of them) were just so-so. We had a wood fired pizza. Again so-so. Don't get me wrong, I will stop again the next time I am in Frederick, but only until something better opens up.
(2)
Karl M.
Decent brewpub, good beers and I recommend the crab cakes and pizza.
(4)
Casey K.
Pretty bad night here. I think if you are a big beer enthusiast who needs a spot to meet up with friends, then this is the place for you. However, if you are like myself that was out for dinner with the fam, then you are out of luck with quality of food. We started with the meat and cheese platter, which was really a pitiful site. It was served on a plate. Not on a carving board or a cool piece of slate that I have seen elsewhere. The components were just sort of thrown on the plate with no distinction in which was which. The apple slices were pithy and lifeless, there was no snap or sweetness to merge with the other savory ingredients and there were only two slices, seemed kind of sparse for a meat and cheese "platter". There was some baguette slices which were burnt and there were also only three pieces. All and all, this was a really bad starter and I would not recommend. I had the cedar plank salmon which was also not good. The salmon was cooked ok and just as I requested but the components paired with it were odd. The tomato relish ended up being like a marinara sauce, which in no way was good complimented or took of from the salmon, it was just odd. I was expecting so much from the tomato relish, however, it fell flat for me. The russet potatoes were dry and tough, one of the pieces were actually too hard for me to chew, which I inconspicuously deposited into my napkin. Just bad bad bad, and definite one to skip. The best thing on the table I tasted and the thing I wished I had ordered was the plantain mahi. The fish was light and tender while the avocado mashed potatoes had a wonderful flavor. I would highly recommend this dish and if I ever find myself here again, that is my go to. I had a bite of the muffuletta burger which was forgettable and in noway like a muffuletta, but more a burger they just put a large chunk of ham on. There was no finesse in flavors, and I was honestly very let down by this night at brewers alley. Can't say I will return.
(2)
Joshua P.
Food was great, had bean burger and shared a margherita pizza. Co-workers I went with are big beer finatics and they kept talking about how good it's was! I would definitely return.
(5)
Travis F.
I love this place. Food is excelled, service is fast. Thursday's are great for a cheap lobster dinner. We also had a friends birthday here and they were great for providing us a with a large table for the group.
(4)
Andrew M.
Found this place just by looking on the map. At first it seemed great, but then the wait was long and the waiter took forever getting our drinks. There is room for improvement on the service. As for the food, it was really good. Had the Maryland crab dip and the BBQ chicken for dinner. Well proportioned and priced. I can't really complain there. But I just didn't think it deserved more stars. We got the wrong check which was for the other table. And my friend almost paid it. The beer was great, so if your looking for pub food and beer. This isn't a bad place. Give it a try
(3)
Shona G.
I have eaten at Brewer's Alley a few times and the food is always pretty good. Tonight we made the mistake of sitting on the patio where the band was playing. Let me say this, the band was good, I would have enjoyed the music if I could have actually seen the band. We arrived early to ensure that we would get a table, unfortunately once the band started playing people began crowding in and standing in front of our table so that their butts were right in our face, and I mean that is all we could see.......butts everywhere (see butt photo, you'll know which one). This large group of people appeared to be friends and family of the band as they seemed to know each other. We had a meal and were attempting to finish our dessert in spite of the butts, when they began setting their drinks and empty glasses on our table!! At one point my husband moved his chair to the other side of the table to get away from the butts, but they just followed him there too. Not only were these people rudely obstructing our view but there was so many of them that the wait staff had to maneuver around them which also affected the service that paying customers like ourselves received. I might add that they were not eating, just drinking and leaving their glasses with us. My husband is typically a very laid back and easy going guy, but he had his fill. When he went in to speak to the manager he was told that they can't control the situation, he also said that the band called this crowd to come hear them. That is ridiculous! The patio is fenced off and when it is full they should begin a wait list like most other establishments would. Standing around the outer perimeter would be perfectly acceptable but these people were everywhere, this is a reataurant, people were trying to eat. When it was brought to their attention by one server, some of them moved over while more just filed into their places. This was the rudest group of people I have ever encountered and the substandard manner in which the restaurant handled the situation only compounded the problem. It turned out to be a very disappointing evening.
(1)
Nicole W.
Just had lunch there, the service was excellent but the fish and chips were a bit greasy. The calamari was very good though. I would go back but get the pizza next time.
(4)
Sara B.
Pretty good food, last time I went I ordered a turkey burger and it was really tasty! A number of others at my table ordered crab cakes and loved them. Good beer selection. Only complaint would be to have more attentive waitstaff.
(4)
Eddie Y.
The best crab dip ever! Nice seating areas, staff is very nice and friendly. The food is great. Ill be back.
(4)
Bridget H.
This place is amazing. No, seriously! Brewer's Alley has great food, friendly and quick service, and great selection of ale. They even have seasonal ales too! I really enjoyed their pumpkin ale, I got to sample it this past Thanksgiving. This time, I tried a nutty brown ale. My favorite meal has to be the ham & cheese with local ham from Woodsboro. The portion size is not too small, but it isn't so big, you feel really "stuffed" after eating there.
(5)
Lelia S.
Yum! I went to Brewer's Alley for a work function and the food and service were outstanding. The crab dip and calamari for appetizers were well prepared and a nice start to the meal. The menu is eclectic. Most people will be able to find something they like, with lots of options for chicken, steak, seafood. They have great daily specials too. I tried the jambalaya and it was the perfect combination of spice, seafood and, strangely enough, orzo instead of rice. All the dishes were very flavorful! We also spent some time at the bar and my colleagues assured me that the beers were great but I stuck with a few mojitos. The bartender did a nice job on these too. Overall impression: If you're in Frederick and looking for a place to experience a tasty dinner or casual evening out, this place is definitely worth a try!
(4)
Jess E.
Brewer's Alley is always a solid choice. I've never had a bad meal or bad service here. The pizza is delicious, and although they don't do half-and-half with toppings, they are otherwise very accommodating. I also love their pretzel appetizer. Beer selection is great too, definitely a good place to check out what's on tap, as you would hope with a name like Brewer's Alley!
(4)
Anthony I.
Sadly, i did not drink the beer here, i was prepping for a big meal later on that evening, however the oysters were fantastic, some of the largest I have ever had. I will soon be back to imbibe on what I have heard called some of the best locally brewed beer anywhere. The salads were also great, fresh, delicious and just the right size, but man the oysters were spectacular, literally the size of softballs!
(4)
Leah O.
After a ghost tour of Frederick, my friend and I headed to Brewers Alley for a beer and live music. Neither disappointed. We didn't actually eat here, but sat outside in the beer garden area. They had an excellent band (I can't remember the name) There was plenty of room for sitting and/or standing and dancing. They have a large selection of brews to choose from, as they brew their own beer. If I was up in Frederick again, I would be sure to hit up Brewers Alley for more beer and to try their food selection.
(5)
Sheryl V.
My husband enjoyed the beer - we both enjoyed the food. He had fish & chips and I had black bean burger. Enjoyed the atmosphere and the waitstaff - this was New Year's Eve for lunch and it was busy - the food came out very quickly. We would go back again.
(4)
Abby B.
We visited on a mid week night and got right in, had a very nice experience except for the portion/pricing of the entree my husband and I shared. We ordered from under "big plates" section of the menu and got the surf and turf which was $31. When the waiter brought out our shared meal, we each ate our portion in about 6 bites, it really was sad...:( the crab cake portions was the size of a half dollar and the steak was slightly bigger. we each got 4 tiny broccoli florets and a few kernals of corn. So not worth $31!!
(3)
Glen M.
Decent beermenu, worth exploring more on subsequent visits. I had their hefe weizen -- very good -- and a "cordon blue burger" for lunch -- not as well-executed as it could have been.
(3)
Julaine N.
Brewer's (as the name would suggest) makes their own beer. They have great half-priced happy hour specials on Mondays and Tuesdays. I would suggest tasting a beer or asking your bartender/waitress for a suggestion. They have a good IPA and I love the summer seasonal blueberry beer. If you are looking for something to eat at the bar, they also have great brick oven pizzas. The rest of the food is alright, but nothing spectacular. I usually just get their house salad with champagne dressing and goat cheese fritters. Simple but tasty...a bit over-priced for a salad. Steer clear of the salmon dishes...I am not sure about their seafood supplier. I have had too many fish dishes that were a little too fishy. :/ Overall, come for a beer, pizza, or salad; enjoy the outdoor patio (but only if you are eating, unfortunately); but try another restaurant if you are looking for a fancy dinner.
(3)
Mark R.
Great place to grab a home-brewed beer and grab a great meal! Best of all, the prices here are great for the value / quality. The first thing you notice are the huge beer vats... and let me ensure you that the beer in them is delicious! Always a good selection and great bar service. The huge t.v. in the bar makes it a nice place to watch a game. The food is really good. Wide variety and large selection. I feel like they need to limit some of the menu. its a bit too much. Its a great place to bring a large group of people. From time to time they have special events and tasting dinners. I went to one tasting that was a pairing of 5 courses with beer. Really fun and a good value. I think you can get on the list on their website. Overall, its a good place to grab a great lunch or dinner.
(4)
Chrys H.
Good beer, solid food, good service. We're glad we found it.
(4)
Joel S.
This restaurant is just OK. I was not impressed by the food and the ambiance is not what you see from the street (we ate in the back room).
(3)
Elise O.
i really should have tried the beer here but sadly did not. instead i had a long island iced tea which i must say was expertly mixed and tasted great. the fried pickles were delish. I had the crab cake platter and was dissappointed that i literally only received TWO pieces of asparagus on my plate. that was the reason i picked the platter over the sandwich was for the asparagus. so it was a dissappointing portion for $19. our waitress wasn't bad but rather apathetic. she seemed like she had a long day and was kind of over it. overall, just ok! not great.
(3)
Laura J.
Had the beer sampler and enjoyed all the different beers. It was Cinco de Mayo, and they had a special menu which we ordered from. I had a pasta dish that used Italian techniques and ingredients that used chorizo (spicy Mexican sausage) and it was excellent.
(4)
Jess R.
Had a great lunch, I agree with Amy T, they do a great twist on normal faire. Such as a BLTC - BTL with PepperJack cheese...was great. Had the soup of the day - Sweet potato and apple bisque - unique flavor with a slight sweet after taste. Nice meal - would definitely recommend.
(4)
talia r.
*This is a review mostly from the boy, but I co-sign on what will be written.* Sit at the bar or grab a seat outside and enjoy one of 9 wonderfully brewed choices ready for drinking (love the oatmeal stout and belgium whit). Get a sampler of all or if your group decides for one and wants more than just a pint get the Brewtenders delivered to your table (for 6 pints at $19 you are getting one hell of a deal). Don't feel like staying, grab a growler of your favorite choice and take it on the road. With a single $15 deposit, it is yours to keep and either return for money back or fill it up again for round 2. Let me rewind a bit. Brewer's Alley is housed in, yes an alley (kinda), a beautiful historic building that once was the City Hall and before that the Rhode Island House. For all of your classy party needs, there is a 2nd floor banquet room. Food comes good portioned and nice price. It may be a brewery, but it definitely serves like an upscale pub grub. After a filling lunch we decided on a light dinner and split the Maryland style crab soup and thai chicken salad. Soup hit the spot with the large chunks of crab, corn and green beans floating in its tasteful broth. The salad tasted fresh and light., tons of chicken and a nice spice in the dressing. All ingredients, produce and meats, come locally and it could be my imagination but it makes it taste that much better. If you want a deal, this is your place: Monday: Stimulus Package: Buy 1 big plate and get a starred food item or daily special of equal or lesser value for free. Wednesday: 8pm-close $2 drafts (when drafts are about $3.50, it isn't too big of a deal, but saving that $1.50 just means another beer). 9pm, free cajun buffet. Thursday: 1 1/4 lb whole Maine Loberster or Grilled 10oz. New York Strip Steak for $13.95 or $25.95 for both. You better believe I am hauling my ass here on a Thursday. To sum it all up in the boy's words: Top notch service, great location, beer prices fantastic, food was good (but we will see how the rest of the menu goes after more visits) loved the micro-brew choices. What else do you need to have? It is a micro-brew!
(5)
Andy J.
Beer wasn't great but it wasn't bad either. You can't beat the happy hour price of $2.52 a pint. I only drank, I have no idea about the food.
(3)
Rachael H.
great food - for a better atmosphere sit in the bar or patio area - the dining area is a little like a retirement cafeteria - but the bar and patio area area were great!
(4)
Larry G.
Interesting little "Irish pub" that a friend decided for us to meet for lunch. It is bright and roomy...despite the fact that it was pouring hard outside. So, that's a plus! My friend ordered some eggplant sandwich. I ordered the baked ziti. As soon as I had my first taste, I knew I'd be spending quality time in the bathroom. It was like eating mac n' cheese with like 4 times as cheesy. Whoo...a bit too much. Plus, diced tomatoes on top. Ewww! It was definitely not like the baked ziti at Sbarro's. The wait service was friendly and prompt. So, I'll give them credit for that. The next time I come here...I'll try their burgers.
(3)
James V.
Great pizza, beer, and service. A really charming restaurant in the center of historic Frederick. My whole family love this place. The Pizza was really good and the home made beer made the night extra special...
(5)
Jessie H.
Great food, horrible waitress. A group of 4 of us headed here, after touring Flying Dog Brewery. I had the california chicken sandwich, which was delicious. My husband enjoyed the burger. The table shared the nacho - with the chili on the side (awesome!) Really enjoyed the banana peppers. I had asked for pepper jack cheese & my husband asked for bacon. Neither sandwich came with them, which is no big deal. We just wanted to tell the waitress so we were not charged. She pretty much made fun us being worried about "$1.50". And instead of apologizing, she complained how she was going to have to have her manager take it off the bill. Still at this point, we were still happy to tip her at least 20%. She was quite annoying and fake, but whatever. Then the check came. The bill was about $80, and we asked her to split the check evenly between the two couples. After she ran the cards, she returned them to us. Between our two checks she ended up charging us an additional $12 - how does that happen? Very shady. Again, we brought it to her attention, and she really didn't care, and again acted annoyed. At that point the whole table shut down and had enough. We would return again, but would specifically request not to have this waitress. I probably would have ranked this 4 stars otherwise. Needless to say, we were not very generous on the tip.
(2)
Kevin W.
This place has pretty good food regardless of what you are looking for. I was in Frederick for business and ended up at this place a couple times. Great food and service.
(4)
Gabrielle B.
The bar was great but the food was less-than-average. We started with the nachos as an appetizer. They seemed microwaved and were soggy. My friend got the salmon entree and it was way too salty. Her husband got the pizza and although the crust was good, the cheese seemed to have an added layer of salt. My fiancee got the ribs and was surprised how few ribs he got for the price. I got the chicken satay with rice and vegetables and it was really greasy. It wasn't cheap and it wasn't good.
(2)
Allison K.
The Duck pizza was otherworldly. I could have had 2 larges myself I think. I liked the beer they poured for us and the sweet-potato fries?!! So good, I almost made myself sick downing the whole basket. :P The ambiance leaves a little to be desired...at least in some of the rooms. We sat in the side dining room which was a little quiet and the round tables leave everyone staring at one another awkwardly. Square tables, some low tunes and dimmer lighting would do wonders for this room. The bar area seemed hopping with a more college/sports bar flare to it. Very fun and a bit loud if you're looking for a mellower evening.
(4)
Laurie W.
Brewer's Alley is okay - fun if you're in the mood for hanging out and don't mind a little noise. Let me just say first of all that I am very fond of Frederick, so I'm generally in a good mood when I drive up to go out downtown. I went back to Brewer's Alley last night to meet some friends "halfway" who were coming from a bit farther west and east from Baltimore, so it's a good place to meet in the middle. There are lots of dining options on Market Street, but one of my friends suggested Brewer's and it was fine with me. I'd last been there with a big group for a pre-bachelorette party dinner, and it had been really fun. I always forget that smoking is allowed in Frederick County/City bars and restaurants, but that's going to change this February when the statewide ban goes into effect, as a friendly guy at the bar reminded me. I had the Kolsch, which was okay - a little bit warm, which doesn't thrill me. Another friend had the Oatmeal Stout, and there were some mixed drinks consumed at our table as well - I didn't hear any complaints about those, and they looked pretty strong, if that's your thing. Happy hour beers are three bucks, so nothing wrong with that. We stayed for dinner, and our waiter was funny and accommodating. It was so hot in the restaurant (at least to me) that I had trouble deciding on what to eat. Everything's a bit...heavy, but it's a brewpub so that's no shock. I had the steak and iceberg salad. The meat wasn't the greatest - fresh but pretty tough and more fat than I care for (especially on top of a salad. Yuck.) The dressing was good, though, so all in all it was a step up from mediocre. My friends ordered the meatloaf, a barbecue sandwich, and an Asian salad (I think that's what it was, although I'm not sure what was in it that made it Asian, besides those crunchy noodles on the top.) The shoestring fries looked good. I'd go for the meatloaf if I went again and wasn't feeling like dinner was a huge hot flash not at all solved by the dining room ceiling fans. I'd much rather have sat outside since it was a nice night, but the tables were full. The bar is packed on the weekends and - as noted - is smoke city. If that's okay with you, and you like mob scenes, this could be your spot. Bar seating is very limited, but they didn't seem to care that we sat at our table nursing drinks long after we were done eating. Warning - during the week after a certain time, they stop serving any food but pizza. The pizza, thankfully, is one of the better options on the menu, so you're safe. Overall this isn't a bad choice for a casual meal and a beer.
(3)
Nathaniel L.
Went here last night and enjoyed it very much! There's an outdoor patio where you can enjoy the weather if it's nice. We ate inside since we had a large group including a child. The cheese-filled pretzel appetizer is delicious and the sweet potato fries that come with the ribs are great! Someone said the nut brown beer was very good too.
(3)
Jes S.
Great place to drink. As for food... eh. If you get hungry while you're drinking, it's definitely passable. But I wouldn't go here JUST for the food. They do a great job with what they have, but the final product just doesn't taste fresh and "crisp"; flavors are flat and one-dimensional. I've had a few sandwiches with fries, and once took a chance on the lamb chops when a friend really wanted to eat here. I must say I was surprised at how well they did the lamb chops. Not that they were fantastic, but better than I expected. I guess you'd say that, for bar food, it's pretty good. For real food, not so. Service is pretty outstanding: friendly, prompt, and on top of things even on wildly busy nights. It sucks that you often have to wait upwards of 15 minutes for a table, or even a seat on the bar, but that just goes to show how popular the place is. I once had a credit card issue here when I was overcharged as the result of a bill-splitting-with-friends mistake by the waitress. I called the manager and he kept me up-to-date about every 15 minutes (for over 2 hours) until his accountant had fixed the problem (at about 10 PM on a weeknight). And no, the friend I split the bill with wasn't charged the amount that was taken off my receipt. Nor was the waitress' tip docked. I was impressed. As a result, I think the management is excellent. Atmosphere... For drinking, it's pubbishly outstanding. For eating in the dining areas, rather a cheap, kitschy, pathetic imitation of a German Brauhaus. All in all, great for some liquor, a snack, and good rowdy times. For a really enjoyable meal, North Market has better options.
(3)
J A.
Service: F Food: F Beer: A- Same people own Isabellas, so no surprise that both suck.
(1)
Suze B.
I love this place!! The food is delicious, as well as the drinks. The atmosphere is just right for that kind of restaurant. I highly recommend eating here during your trip to Frederick.
(4)
Guy S.
The beer is good and the atmosphere is pretty cool. I rarely go out now that I have a kid, but when I do I usually go here. The only problem is that it's pretty smoky as are all bars in Old Town Frederick.
(4)
Christine W.
my friend and i ran over to this place (literally- pouring rain!) looking for a bite to eat. we decided to share a pizza. mmm... brick oven goodness. the crust is crisp and so chewy. the rest of the menu didn't really hold my interest. i thought the atmosphere at the bar and decor were nice, but the waiter was too busy chatting it up with other staff members.
(3)
Lori M.
My husband and I went here on a Thursday night mainly because of Lobster Night (I mean, really, I couldn't cook a lobster dinner at home for the price of $13.95). We were seated immediately, after being asked if we wanted to sit outside or inside. Since it was hot out, we chose inside, but many people were seated on the patio. To enter the dining room, you have to go through the bar. Then, when you arrive at the dining room, the first thing you notice is the high noise level, even though the room was only half full and there was no music playing. The accoustics must be terrible in there. We were seated at a small table in the far corner of the room. When they placed us there, I thought, "well, at least it may be quieter here, but it really wasn't. The waitress immediately came and took our drink orders, and since we knew we wanted the specials, she took those orders, too. I ordered the lobster special--1 1/4 pound lobster with a ceasar salad and fries, and my husband, who doesn't like fooling with the work of eating a lobster, ordered the 10 oz. steak, again with ceasar salad and fries...no choices of salad or sides, no substitutions. After a short wait, the beverages arrived...I had just ordered water, but my husband got one of the wheat beers that they brew there. He said it was good, but not the best he had ever had. The price was reasonable, but also kind of odd...$3.67 or $3.62--an odd amount--what's up with that? Shortly after the beverages arrived, a second server delivered the ceasar salads--good and cheesy with a few croutons and a hint of garlic (not overpowering as someone else said in one of the reviews). The server came back and I asked if bread was included with the meal and I got a flat answer, "No", not, "It doesn't come with the specials" or "It's an extra charge", just, "No" and he left. When we were leaving later, I noticed several tables did have bread baskets, so I had to assume that bread did not come with the special. I could understand this if we had ordered a sandwich, but I would have thought bread would have been served with a steak or lobster dinner. After we finished the salad, there was virtually no wait until the entrees arrived. My husband said his steak was tender and flavorful and cooked just as he had ordered and it looked huge! And my lobster was wonderful! Both entrees were served with shoestring fries that were very good, crispy and with just the right amount of salt, but, while serving the fries on the same plate as the steak was fine, they quickly got soggy in the liquid of the lobster juice as I opened the lobster. Seems like serving them on a small seperate plate would be a simple solution. Although they actually tasted good soaked in the juice of the lobster, not everyone would like that, and the diner should have the choice to keep them dry if they want to...such a simple solution, too. The entree also included a rather tasteless bit of coleslaw in a small cup--more of a garnish than a side. The lobster and steak, though, I can't say enough good about...very tasty, and VERY reasonable price. Since that was the main thing I came for, I'll overlook the other flaws. The waitress was attentive, checking serveral times to see if everything was okay, and to get a refill of the beer, and the server also checked on us, but was a little too eager to clear the table...asking if I was done with the discard plate (they gave you a seperate plate to put the shell on as you worked your way through the lobster)...I was only halfway through the meal...not sure where he thought I would put the rest of the shell if he took the plate. All in all, the meal was wonderful, but it would have been nice to have some bread to soak up the lobster juices, and to have the seperate plate for the fries. Will definately return and hope they take note of the suggestions!
(4)
Sarah L.
Stopped here on a whim on our first visit to Frederick. Great site in the historic City Hall in walkable and trendy downtown, where the citizens of Frederick forked over their ransom to keep the Rebels from burning the place to the ground. Neat building, wonderfully restored, cool decorations. Beer was good- husband had Maibock, with which he was very impressed, I had oatmeal stout, which was not out-of-the-ordinary, but was really solid and tasty. Had a crab dip appetizer, chips were not homemade, but dip was very good with big crab pieces. Hubby had roast beef sandwich, piled high with real roast beef, also came with soup, also good. I had new menu item upon waiter recommendation - CA Chicken - very good, whole grain local bread, fresh avocados and chicken breast. Very good overall, extremely friendly service and a very good welcome to a very neat historic city. Recommend stopping in!
(4)
Tiffany J.
They get two stars instead of one because I was here twice. The first night I went for a beer and the service was horrible. The bartender was rude and so was the waitress who refused to let us sit on the patio, even though there were other people out there drinking. *shrug* Don't know. The second night was alright - sat down for dinner. The food was so-so, nothing amazing, the beer was good and the service wasn't horrible, just sub-par.
(2)
Nazzarena L.
Casual athmosphere, this comfy microbrew is a relatively popular family locale. I have been here for lab lunches, not disliked it, so I brought my friends over after they moved me, and dined on the patio with another friend from London who's my detector for when my european upbringing are obfuscated by the habits aquired in all these american years. So test passed. Of course I never have the pizza, but why should I. Best to stick to dignitous burger and ribs, or Thursday lobster.
(3)
Melanie F.
Black bean burger is good. Beer is very good. Nachos - skip (taste good but very over priced)
(4)
Rade M.
Great beer selection. I had a delicious India pale ale. Didn't try the food, but the menu had some good looking options. Will be back for the food.
(4)
Adri Q.
Great beer, including their India pale ale that recently won silver at an international brewing competition, and food. Had the sweet potato fries, which were awesome, and the roasted vegetable salad with DELICIOUS goat cheese fritters.
(4)
Seth R.
Have to say the Thursday Special of a 10 oz New York strip paired with a full 1 &1/4 pound lobster for $25 is about the best deal I have ever heard of! The steak was excellent-perfectly cooked and tender. The lobster was extremely tasty and much larger than I had envisioned. You can bet that I will be returning on a Thursday for the special!
(4)
Rebecca S.
Went out for dinner with my husband's work colleagues here and everyone enjoyed themselves. There were several appetizers ordered, all were yummy- especially the calamari. My husband and I are beer snobs and were pleased with our beers. I had the porter which was quite nice. They had whole steamed lobsters for only $13 that evening on special and everyone but me got them. I tasted a claw and it was cooked well- not rubbery, just right. I ordered the house-made sausage dish with au gratin taters and sauteed apples and onions. It was extremely gnosh-tastic (ie, tasty to the Nth power)- the flavors were rich, complex and well-balanced and everything was cooked perfectly. I'm sure my hubbie and I will end up at this place again if we ever leave the house under our own auspices.
(4)
Wade L.
Excellent beer, made by the owner (now offsite, which is fine as it makes for more room in the bar area) and sold at great prices. The food uses excellent ingredients and is never bad, I've tried many things over the past 2 years and it has all been very well made. Wait staff is hit or miss, but never rude, just somewhat inexperienced. Highly recommended.
(5)
Lester H.
Okay, let me preface this by saying I only visited once, so far. I had to travel to NW MD for business from Boston. It was a quick trip, only 26 hours there and back again. Anyway, I checked the reviews on Yelp and decided to hit up Brewer's Alley. Let me tell you, I've never seen so many people out on a Monday!? I swear, the place was absolutely filled with beautiful women. I was with the company brass and short on time, but I was absolutely impressed. I enjoyed my meal, although the mashed potatoes with my blackened salmon was subpar. More importantly, I thought the beer was delicious. The hefweizen wasn't to my liking, but the pilsner and IPA were very good. Hopefully, I'll have to come back. Well...since I'm the person that often schedules these meetings, I will be back.
(4)
Ben M.
Very cool old building right in the middle of the historic district. They have a big menu with some pretty solid vegetarian options. The black bean burger was pretty good, but it is pretty much a big ole patty of black beans. So, it's a veggie burger in name only. Obviously the beer menu is extremely solid.
(4)
Adam S.
Thought this place was pretty good. Have some friends that are regular Happy Hour goers here, so my friend and I ended up having dinner here. I got the BBQ chicken pizza and my friend had the white pizza, both were good; however waaaay too many onions on the BBQ chicken pizza. Ended up trying a couple different beers although I don't remember the names of them(it was that good of a night). I am sure I'll be back.
(3)
Brian S.
I agree with the previous review on this one. The menu always looks so good as I walk by, but then I remember how bad the execution of it is every time. The beer is decent and the ambiance is good, but overall I have never left this place satisfied. The one huge upside is the outdoor patio, very nice in the spring and fall.
(2)
Jessi L.
We love to come here in the summer for pizza and beers on the patio! Their kolsch and hefeweizen are my fav! The patio is a great place to hang out and people watch. The food is ok but the vibe, beer, and people always keeps us coming back! This place is usually the starting or end point of our Frederick nights out! Pretty much a staple. I love how open and huge the bar area is after their recent renovations!
(3)
Joe W.
I eat and drink here at least once a week since it's so close to where we live. The house made beer is good, not outstanding but generally pretty true to style and the price can't be beat. I'm a bit of a beer snob and have been home brewing for well over a decade, so my standards are a bit higher than some, so you might find the beer to be great. $3 for pints normally, specials and happy hour are even better, so honestly they have the best beer deal in town as far as I'm concerned. The brick oven pizza is great and it's one of the few places around that you can get food and beer (important combo) after 9pm (not the full menu though, only what goes in the brick oven). The regular menu is pretty good and the specials usually are too. Great patio for outside seating and people watching when the weather is nice. They'd get a very solid 4 stars if the service was more consistent. It can be good or it can be spotty. Management really needs to work on this but since they are usually pretty busy maybe they don't care. I seem to keep coming back, so maybe that's what everyone else does too. The bar can get really smoky and you need to walk through it to get to the dining room, but that will all end 2/1/2008, so it's almost not worth mentioning at this point.
(3)
Justin H.
Not bad. Had one of their seasonal beers from the cask. Some dark number with hints of maple syrup. Was delicious. Wings and pizza were good, but the real get was the jalapeño & cheese stuffed pretzel with spicey Dijon mustard dip.
(3)
Edmond G.
Solid American fare, high quality and good, casual service. Great beer but weak wine list. New larger bar area is really great. Pizza is unbelievably good with the wood fired oven.
(5)
Maria W.
Fun, young afterwork hangout. Comfortable outdoor seating with standard brewpub fare. Would be perfect if they would just fix the dang ATM machine.
(3)
Greg S.
We have been going here for 7 years now, and the one thing I can say about it is it's never the same. The beer is always good and the food is generally good but always different. Don't begin to like something and want it again because it will be gone. The food really is good, just slightly overpriced as are all of the eateries in Frederick.
(3)
Brian M.
I decided to try Brewer's Alley based on the strength of some of the reviews. I should have passed. I had the English IPA. Who knew that English was code for bland and watery. Come to think of it, I probably should have. I had the falafel fritters for starters. They were gooey inside. I had the Crabcake sandwich, which was large and meaty, but bland, as well. I will not regret not going again.
(2)
Jay L.
This ain't a restaurant, it's a nice bar that serves food if you get hungry while you get hammered. Don't come here to eat, come to drink because their food and food service is shitty.
(2)
Amy T.
Brewer's gives a good twist to a typical brew-pub menu. There is a great list of microbrew beers made on site. Unfortunately, they close relatively early for a bar, but late for a restaurant, making the transition between the family diners and the night owl nosh seekers kind of akward and rushed.
(3)
Linda N.
Brewers Alley is a good, reliable place in downtown Frederick with a friendly atmosphere, a predictable menu and great beer. Unfortunately you don't want to be seated in the "room with a view" (the fishbowl room) in the summer because it gets very hot.
(3)
L O.
Inevitably I go to this restaurant a few times a year--mostly in the summer because they've got the monopoly on outdoor seating in Frederick. And inevitably I am disappointed by the food. The ceasar salad is nearly inedible because of the amount of garlic, even to those who like garlic. The wraps are edible, but the chain restaurants do a much better job and a far more consistent. I try to avoid the main dinners, because they are over priced and always let down. My advice: Go for the beer, but don't stay for the food.
(2)
D H.
We had the crab cakes and mac'n cheese. The food was OK, but the service and atmosphere were great.
(3)
Wade L.
Excellent beer, made by the owner (now offsite, which is fine as it makes for more room in the bar area) and sold at great prices. The food uses excellent ingredients and is never bad, I've tried many things over the past 2 years and it has all been very well made. Wait staff is hit or miss, but never rude, just somewhat inexperienced. Highly recommended.
(5)
Lester H.
Okay, let me preface this by saying I only visited once, so far. I had to travel to NW MD for business from Boston. It was a quick trip, only 26 hours there and back again. Anyway, I checked the reviews on Yelp and decided to hit up Brewer's Alley. Let me tell you, I've never seen so many people out on a Monday!? I swear, the place was absolutely filled with beautiful women. I was with the company brass and short on time, but I was absolutely impressed. I enjoyed my meal, although the mashed potatoes with my blackened salmon was subpar. More importantly, I thought the beer was delicious. The hefweizen wasn't to my liking, but the pilsner and IPA were very good. Hopefully, I'll have to come back. Well...since I'm the person that often schedules these meetings, I will be back.
(4)
Ben M.
Very cool old building right in the middle of the historic district. They have a big menu with some pretty solid vegetarian options. The black bean burger was pretty good, but it is pretty much a big ole patty of black beans. So, it's a veggie burger in name only. Obviously the beer menu is extremely solid.
(4)
Adam S.
Thought this place was pretty good. Have some friends that are regular Happy Hour goers here, so my friend and I ended up having dinner here. I got the BBQ chicken pizza and my friend had the white pizza, both were good; however waaaay too many onions on the BBQ chicken pizza. Ended up trying a couple different beers although I don't remember the names of them(it was that good of a night). I am sure I'll be back.
(3)
Brian S.
I agree with the previous review on this one. The menu always looks so good as I walk by, but then I remember how bad the execution of it is every time. The beer is decent and the ambiance is good, but overall I have never left this place satisfied. The one huge upside is the outdoor patio, very nice in the spring and fall.
(2)
Jessi L.
We love to come here in the summer for pizza and beers on the patio! Their kolsch and hefeweizen are my fav! The patio is a great place to hang out and people watch. The food is ok but the vibe, beer, and people always keeps us coming back! This place is usually the starting or end point of our Frederick nights out! Pretty much a staple. I love how open and huge the bar area is after their recent renovations!
(3)
Joe W.
I eat and drink here at least once a week since it's so close to where we live. The house made beer is good, not outstanding but generally pretty true to style and the price can't be beat. I'm a bit of a beer snob and have been home brewing for well over a decade, so my standards are a bit higher than some, so you might find the beer to be great. $3 for pints normally, specials and happy hour are even better, so honestly they have the best beer deal in town as far as I'm concerned. The brick oven pizza is great and it's one of the few places around that you can get food and beer (important combo) after 9pm (not the full menu though, only what goes in the brick oven). The regular menu is pretty good and the specials usually are too. Great patio for outside seating and people watching when the weather is nice. They'd get a very solid 4 stars if the service was more consistent. It can be good or it can be spotty. Management really needs to work on this but since they are usually pretty busy maybe they don't care. I seem to keep coming back, so maybe that's what everyone else does too. The bar can get really smoky and you need to walk through it to get to the dining room, but that will all end 2/1/2008, so it's almost not worth mentioning at this point.
(3)
Justin H.
Not bad. Had one of their seasonal beers from the cask. Some dark number with hints of maple syrup. Was delicious. Wings and pizza were good, but the real get was the jalapeño & cheese stuffed pretzel with spicey Dijon mustard dip.
(3)
Edmond G.
Solid American fare, high quality and good, casual service. Great beer but weak wine list. New larger bar area is really great. Pizza is unbelievably good with the wood fired oven.
(5)
Maria W.
Fun, young afterwork hangout. Comfortable outdoor seating with standard brewpub fare. Would be perfect if they would just fix the dang ATM machine.
(3)
Greg S.
We have been going here for 7 years now, and the one thing I can say about it is it's never the same. The beer is always good and the food is generally good but always different. Don't begin to like something and want it again because it will be gone. The food really is good, just slightly overpriced as are all of the eateries in Frederick.
(3)
Brian M.
I decided to try Brewer's Alley based on the strength of some of the reviews. I should have passed. I had the English IPA. Who knew that English was code for bland and watery. Come to think of it, I probably should have. I had the falafel fritters for starters. They were gooey inside. I had the Crabcake sandwich, which was large and meaty, but bland, as well. I will not regret not going again.
(2)
Jay L.
This ain't a restaurant, it's a nice bar that serves food if you get hungry while you get hammered. Don't come here to eat, come to drink because their food and food service is shitty.
(2)
Amy T.
Brewer's gives a good twist to a typical brew-pub menu. There is a great list of microbrew beers made on site. Unfortunately, they close relatively early for a bar, but late for a restaurant, making the transition between the family diners and the night owl nosh seekers kind of akward and rushed.
(3)
Linda N.
Brewers Alley is a good, reliable place in downtown Frederick with a friendly atmosphere, a predictable menu and great beer. Unfortunately you don't want to be seated in the "room with a view" (the fishbowl room) in the summer because it gets very hot.
(3)
L O.
Inevitably I go to this restaurant a few times a year--mostly in the summer because they've got the monopoly on outdoor seating in Frederick. And inevitably I am disappointed by the food. The ceasar salad is nearly inedible because of the amount of garlic, even to those who like garlic. The wraps are edible, but the chain restaurants do a much better job and a far more consistent. I try to avoid the main dinners, because they are over priced and always let down. My advice: Go for the beer, but don't stay for the food.
(2)
D H.
We had the crab cakes and mac'n cheese. The food was OK, but the service and atmosphere were great.
(3)
Ann S.
Good beer, yummy Blue Point oysters, okay salads, nice evening w/ the peeps kinda place.
(4)
Laurie W.
Brewer's Alley is okay - fun if you're in the mood for hanging out and don't mind a little noise. Let me just say first of all that I am very fond of Frederick, so I'm generally in a good mood when I drive up to go out downtown. I went back to Brewer's Alley last night to meet some friends "halfway" who were coming from a bit farther west and east from Baltimore, so it's a good place to meet in the middle. There are lots of dining options on Market Street, but one of my friends suggested Brewer's and it was fine with me. I'd last been there with a big group for a pre-bachelorette party dinner, and it had been really fun. I always forget that smoking is allowed in Frederick County/City bars and restaurants, but that's going to change this February when the statewide ban goes into effect, as a friendly guy at the bar reminded me. I had the Kolsch, which was okay - a little bit warm, which doesn't thrill me. Another friend had the Oatmeal Stout, and there were some mixed drinks consumed at our table as well - I didn't hear any complaints about those, and they looked pretty strong, if that's your thing. Happy hour beers are three bucks, so nothing wrong with that. We stayed for dinner, and our waiter was funny and accommodating. It was so hot in the restaurant (at least to me) that I had trouble deciding on what to eat. Everything's a bit...heavy, but it's a brewpub so that's no shock. I had the steak and iceberg salad. The meat wasn't the greatest - fresh but pretty tough and more fat than I care for (especially on top of a salad. Yuck.) The dressing was good, though, so all in all it was a step up from mediocre. My friends ordered the meatloaf, a barbecue sandwich, and an Asian salad (I think that's what it was, although I'm not sure what was in it that made it Asian, besides those crunchy noodles on the top.) The shoestring fries looked good. I'd go for the meatloaf if I went again and wasn't feeling like dinner was a huge hot flash not at all solved by the dining room ceiling fans. I'd much rather have sat outside since it was a nice night, but the tables were full. The bar is packed on the weekends and - as noted - is smoke city. If that's okay with you, and you like mob scenes, this could be your spot. Bar seating is very limited, but they didn't seem to care that we sat at our table nursing drinks long after we were done eating. Warning - during the week after a certain time, they stop serving any food but pizza. The pizza, thankfully, is one of the better options on the menu, so you're safe. Overall this isn't a bad choice for a casual meal and a beer.
(3)
Nathaniel L.
Went here last night and enjoyed it very much! There's an outdoor patio where you can enjoy the weather if it's nice. We ate inside since we had a large group including a child. The cheese-filled pretzel appetizer is delicious and the sweet potato fries that come with the ribs are great! Someone said the nut brown beer was very good too.
(3)
Jes S.
Great place to drink. As for food... eh. If you get hungry while you're drinking, it's definitely passable. But I wouldn't go here JUST for the food. They do a great job with what they have, but the final product just doesn't taste fresh and "crisp"; flavors are flat and one-dimensional. I've had a few sandwiches with fries, and once took a chance on the lamb chops when a friend really wanted to eat here. I must say I was surprised at how well they did the lamb chops. Not that they were fantastic, but better than I expected. I guess you'd say that, for bar food, it's pretty good. For real food, not so. Service is pretty outstanding: friendly, prompt, and on top of things even on wildly busy nights. It sucks that you often have to wait upwards of 15 minutes for a table, or even a seat on the bar, but that just goes to show how popular the place is. I once had a credit card issue here when I was overcharged as the result of a bill-splitting-with-friends mistake by the waitress. I called the manager and he kept me up-to-date about every 15 minutes (for over 2 hours) until his accountant had fixed the problem (at about 10 PM on a weeknight). And no, the friend I split the bill with wasn't charged the amount that was taken off my receipt. Nor was the waitress' tip docked. I was impressed. As a result, I think the management is excellent. Atmosphere... For drinking, it's pubbishly outstanding. For eating in the dining areas, rather a cheap, kitschy, pathetic imitation of a German Brauhaus. All in all, great for some liquor, a snack, and good rowdy times. For a really enjoyable meal, North Market has better options.
(3)
J A.
Service: F Food: F Beer: A- Same people own Isabellas, so no surprise that both suck.
(1)
Suze B.
I love this place!! The food is delicious, as well as the drinks. The atmosphere is just right for that kind of restaurant. I highly recommend eating here during your trip to Frederick.
(4)
Guy S.
The beer is good and the atmosphere is pretty cool. I rarely go out now that I have a kid, but when I do I usually go here. The only problem is that it's pretty smoky as are all bars in Old Town Frederick.
(4)
Christine W.
my friend and i ran over to this place (literally- pouring rain!) looking for a bite to eat. we decided to share a pizza. mmm... brick oven goodness. the crust is crisp and so chewy. the rest of the menu didn't really hold my interest. i thought the atmosphere at the bar and decor were nice, but the waiter was too busy chatting it up with other staff members.
(3)
Oj M.
Great place to hang out in Frederick. I tried the Meatless Sloppy Joe - the sauce was made w/ more sugar than tomato. I will stick with pizza from next time. If you get a sandwich or burger, get sweet potato fries as a side - they were yummy. We usually site in the dining area, but on Saturday night we stayed in the bar and the music was way too loud - maybe bc it was a Sat night?
(3)
Luisita S.
The menu at Brewer's Alley is always more appetizing than the actual food. If you stick with the sandwiches or salads, you'll do well. Anything more complicated is beyond the kitchen's capabilities.
(2)
Heather H.
Five stars!!! Five for the delicious Pepperoni and goat cheese pizza, five for the Lamb and potatoes, five for the chocolate brownie and creme brule desert, five for the wine and beer, and five for the great service even know she was busting her ass!! 2nd time here and can't wait to go back, everything has perfect taste. They have a variety to choose from, they also have patio seating! This is great place to have amazing food and still have a good time with your family and friends or a casual date night!! The best part was it was only $62 for all food!! Prices are reasonable!! I'm all about good food and I highly recommend this place!
(5)
Jules K.
Yeah. So. I find it hard to downrate an independent brewery, but this isn't 3 solid stars, this is three because I can't give 2.5 stars. If I hadn't had a beer, it would be 2 stars because I can't give 1.5. At any rate, don't be fooled by the prices, the place is really casual, almost run down. Like many businesses in Frederick, I assume this was another restaurant before its current incarnation and BA moved in without making many changes to the dining room. Or they bought all of their furniture used. The food. It was OK. But just OK, part of it was the pricing, which suggested something better than OK, but we were hungry. So now you're like - Wait, meh interior, meh food. What about the service? So, I know waiting tables is an incredibly hard job. Both physically and mentally taxing. I really admire people who can go all day, smiling through the amount of idiocy and outright rudeness they must endure from various dimwits and creeps, without stuffing a blue plate special up a nostril or two. BUT. The service at this place, what gives? It wasn't busy, there were several empty tables and there were often members of the wait staff just sort of hanging around. But the person waiting our table made us feel really rushed to eat and get out. Also, she didn't tell us about the different prices for beer (1.50 for 5 oz) and the samplers etc. I learned about this after we'd placed our order when I heard another waiter telling the party at the table beside ours. Perhaps this is crazy talk, but in a brewery, I would have expected every waiter to talk up the suds. However, based on observation when we left, our inopportune arrival had interrupted an important conversation with some co-workers. That's faux pas we won't commit again! Call it 2 stars for the beer, 1 star for everything else. You've been warned.
(3)
Natasha P.
Went here a while ago because a friend was having a birthday dinner here. Everyone in Frederick talks about this place and I don't understand why. The fried pickles are great but that's it. Everything else was basic with little to no seasoning. I only gave it two stars because one was for the waitress she was nice the other star was for the pickles.
(2)
Sarah B.
Great building and even better food! The Quail and calamari special had interesting flavors that surprised me. I would come back more than once!!
One of my favorite spots in Frederick. For Drinking: I'm a beer lover and they make their own beer. Their beer is pretty good. Their hard alcohol menu is even better (though I generally just drool over it and order beer)/ For eating: Their food is great. Their Reuben made me fall in love. Their pizzas are interesting and delicious. I've been here in groups of varying sizes around a dozen times now, and it's been rare that anyone hasn't enjoyed their food. Atmosphere: Brewer's Alley seems to attract a pretty young partying crowd. Each to their own, but that's not my crowd, and their bar area gets so packed I don't even want to get near it. But if you eat outside, or ask for a table indoors, the ambiance is very nice.
(5)
Katie W.
This place is just okay in my opinion. Our waitress, Kay, was very enthusiastic and passionate about her job. Her service was attentive and she did talk us into getting a beer and the Mac and cheese (the star of our meal). The Macaroni and cheese is simply delicious and 5 stars, but the burger and French dip-like sandwich was just okay. Atmosphere is dingy unless outside. Says it gets local ingredients which is cool, but food is really just okay. Service was super quick and our waitress got us the Mac and cheese before our meals (we wanted it as an appetizer) even though we ordered it 5-10 minutes after placing our dinner meals in, which was great!
(3)
Ashley G.
Okay beers, but a pretty tired restaurant. You know the places where the tables will just always be a little sticky? That's Brewer's Alley: Nothing special. Also, I was there in April and they were still serving Octoberfest. No thanks!
(2)
Patt M.
We are visiting; we took our family with 3 grandchildren to dinner. We had all been here once before and had a wonderful experience. Our waitperson was friendly and personable but inefficient. The 4 adult dinners arrived along with one hamburger from the regular menu. The chicken fingers and grilled cheese from the children's menu did not arrive. When we finally called this to our waitperson' attention, the order had never been placed!!!!! Inexcusable for young children. Fortunately these girls nibbled on other's French fries and pizza while they waited. Everyone had finished eating by the time their dinners arrived. I am not sure if we will return to Brewer's Alley during our next visit. The food was good but the service very poor. Our waitperson seemed knowledgable but possibly needs more experience???
(2)
mark s.
We went for perhaps our 3rd time in a year last night. In prior visits we have had decent burgers and pizza. Last night I tried the Thursday sirloin special and 2 others had the lobster special. What a loss of an evening. The drinks (my son is a bartender so knows a bit on the subject were 1. weak (could absolutely not taste the martini) and 2. Badly made (manhattan. Moving right along the Caesar salads were terrible, under dressed and bland unappealing sights. My steak was perhaps 1/2 inch think, covered with a sauce that was too strong and I guess intended in covering up the overcooked meat (which was ordered medium rare). The lobster was "horrible" to quote my wife and "rubbery". This restaurant group did such a nice job at Acacia (now gone) and with Ayse Meze is popular, although not my favorite. I guess it's best to stick with beer and burgers/pizza at Brewers. But venturing beyond that was a big mistake for us.
(1)
Kristen H.
I've been here a few times when I venture into downtown Frederick, which is a fun up-and-coming area. There's always new restaurants popping up to try. This one has been a staple though, always providing a tasty home brewed beer selection. The last time I came here I decided to be vegetarian for the day and get the black bean burger with mushroom soup on the side. The flavoring the both the burger and soup was great, I would just say that the texture of the black bean burger needs to be more well blended and firmer. When I took a bite out of it, a third of it spewed out the other end of my burger, kind of messy to deal with. I would definitely still come back here another time for sure. I like the lively atmosphere of the bar area, always a good time!
(4)
Ali C.
I really loved my food here! I can't recall the exact name of my order but I had Salmon with a tomato risotto. It was very good. Not over cooked or undercooked which is somewhat difficult to find with Salmon and risotto. Good service and nice ambience.
(5)
Susanne A.
Comfortable brewpub food. Really good crab cakes with fresh vegetables and a huge portion of mashed potatoes. Brewed iced tea. Hamburger looked good even if ordered well done. Pasta with mussels was generous,
(3)
Sarah S.
This was a lovely place for dinner for our one night in Frederick! We got the crab dip as an appetizer to start and it was lovely, not the best I had ever had but it was a close second! I definitely recommend it if you're a crab person. My grandmother and I split the crab cake dinner and it was the perfect amount of food with veggies and mashed potatoes on the side. Grand daddy got the shrimp and grits which I was too scared to get because it said jalapeño grits but it wasn't too spicy at all it was delicious! The dinner along with a glass of wine and a great ambiance and excellent service made for a great experience!
(4)
John M.
In town for a wedding. Stopped here for lunch. Ordered the lunch special with trout. Perfection. Just sayin...
(4)
Stacie C.
"We're a brewery first," said our waiter. A good thing, considering we were there mostly for the beer and kind of for some food. With the idea that this is a brewery (and promotes itself as "the first brewery in Frederick County"), I'm not sure what atmosphere they are going for exactly. It doesn't really feel like a pub but didn't seem really inviting as a restaurant, either. Either way, I enjoyed the variety of beers. The fried pickles and margherita pizza also hit the spot. I'm torn on whether or not this is a place I'd recommend. I guess inevitably I would say if you're looking to try some good beer, check it out knowing they have decent food if you're also in the mood for bar food. But I wouldn't recommend it as a dinner-only type of place.
(3)
Amy S.
This is our go-to place when ever we have friends in town. The oysters are a favorite, though about 50% of the time they aren't shucked properly (still good flavor though). Lobster night is also a favorite. In terms of drinks if you're getting mixed drink, try to keep to the standards. Or just get beer, it's always good (they are a brewery after all). A good place if you want consistent good food for a decent price.
(4)
Beata K.
Good local restaurant/bar. Been here a few times and really like the fried pickles and the burgers ( black bean one is very good as well as the regular burger). I'd suggest getting the sweet potato fries...well worth the extra charge. We also got the wings and they were pretty good, wouldn't come here just for the wings but they're good as an app. I don't drink beer but the hubby and some friends tell me it's pretty good here. I'd give this place 3.5 stars if I could primarily because it smells fishy inside the restaurant. Sit outside if you can as it's a nice view.
(3)
T K.
Got into brewers at 910 ordered a special,,, airline chicken,,, which was supposed to have ham cheese bbq sauce,,, restaurant was maybe a quarter full. I inquired where my food was my waitress said they were busy closing the kitchen,,, that was the hold up,,,, finally at 10 ,,,, 50 minutes later finally dinner comes ,,,,, great a 2,5 ounce overcooked chicken breast with no ham no cheese like the special said. The portion was so small it looked like a pigeon breast,,, awful just awful ,,,, this place has really gone downhill if you have a choice dont go here. Lucky corner up the street rocks. Why stay open for food late if there gonna serve you garbage??? Too bad white star is closed :)
(1)
Michelle N.
Love this place! This is our go to spot when we want some great food and beer. We always come here atleast once a week. The staff are always so friendly and welcoming. Definately recommend!
(5)
Carol N.
Husband and I were in town for a friend's wedding and she recommended this place. We hit up Barley and Hops to taste their beers first and were not impressed (beer was good, spinach dip appetizer was disgusting). We were pleasantly surprised with this place, however. Good beer (I had the Two Loves Chocolate-YUMM, husband had the Three Kings Spiced Ale), not a long wait for dinner on a Friday night (20 mins), good food (but just a bit too much), great service. Our waiter was attentive and not pushy given how busy it was. And he looked a lot like Edward Norton which is always a plus. We came back with friends for a drink after the ceremony and pre-reception. Found a seat in the bar and had good service, a nice view of the busy Market Street and enjoyed some good brews. I would definitely go back next time we're in town.
(5)
Bethany E.
I was in Frederick with a friend. We decided to walk around the cute little downtown area. There are great shops and boutiques to explore. Brewers Alley is a great pub with specialty beers. We weren't in the drinking mood at the time but wanted to grab a bite to eat. There is plenty of spacious seating with indoor and outdoor options. We had started out with the Maryland Crab and Pablano Chili Cheese Dip. I couldn't get enough of this! I loved the crab pieces in this cheesy dish of heaven! I would have licked the bowl if it wasn't frowned upon! This dip is so tasty and flavorful! As Rachael Ray would say... YUM-O! For my meal I ordered the Opera House Chopped Salad. As I do at most places, I order the Cobb Salad. This might as well been a Cobb since it had the same ingredients. It was delicious! I ordered their vinaigrette on the side which also complemented the salad. The service was just ok but I always try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. You never know what is going on in their lives and I don't want to criticize. We've all had those days. All in all, this is a great place to stop in downtown Frederick. Plus it's nice there is a parking garage right behind the place!
(4)
Nicole G.
Any restaurant that can put together a table for 12 people and roll with the punches smoothly is great in my eyes! I got to sample some of the wings and the goat cheese and apple pizza. Both were great! Other friends had cocktails and beer, and even a few shooters. I wish I like oysters because those who got them were raving! I also tried a bite of a delicious reuben another friend ordered. Great food, great service, and very accommodating! A perfect lunch spot before exploring Frederick.
(4)
Kyle D.
First time here and the experience was just as bad as going to McDonalds at 12 am with Oscar the grouch as your server. I made reservations and was seated almost right away. The server was fairly rude but he seemed to cheer up a little over time. The pizza was delicious! It did come to the table cold. I'd give this place another shot but it may be a while.
(3)
Sonya P.
The food can be hit or miss depending on menu items. Best time to go is for happy hour because they have excellent specials, sometime free food, and good service. The bar area can get rowdy but that's typical. The tap beers are just ok, but the sampler is fun and an affordable way to pick your brew.
(4)
Mary M.
I reserved a table on a Saturday at 6:00 for a co-worker's bachelorette party. Everyone found something they liked on the menu and seemed to enjoy their meals. I had the crab dip and the fish and chips, both of which were excellent. I saw someone below stated that the crab dip was a pure - this was not the case us.. It had an excellent flavor and lots of big chunks of crab meat. Our "bachelorette" had selected Brewers because she particularly liked one of their specialty pizzas. Although it had been removed from the menu, when she asked the waiter about it he checked with the kitchen and they agreed to make it for her anyway. We were in no hurry to leave as we were chatting, opening gifts and playing some games. I should have let them know when I made the reservation that we planned to stay for a while - but I didn't (my mistake.) It was a busy night for them and they had booked another group for the table at 8:00. We were done with our dinners but still going strong. The manager came over to talk to us and very nicely let us know that had booked another group for 8:00. She said if we didn't not mind moving she would be happy to try to make some space for us at the bar - we were fine with this. Unfortunately, the bar was apparently packed. However, she came up with an even better solution - one of their upstairs banquet rooms was not in use and she offered to move us up there and provide us with a server. This turned out to be awesome, as we had the whole room to ourselves and excellent service. We stayed a couple more hours and really enjoyed ourselves. The manager even brought us all shots to apologize which was not expected. Turns out the party waiting for the table after us was that of another of our co-workers who was there for her sister's birthday. Apparently they were given free appetizers to make up for having to wait an extra 15 minutes for the table. We were truly impressed with how the manager handled what could have been a very difficult situation and made everyone happy. The staff was awesome across the board. We would absolutely return for a party - of course we'd let them know how long we planned to stay this time. Additionally I would be happy to return with family for a dinner out anytime.
(5)
Justin C.
Come on guys, fourteen bucks for a burger, you could at least give a salad and a side with that. Food was good though, don't get me wrong, except maybe the pizza which looks and tastes like the frozen ones you get at the grocery store and make at home. Bartenders can be a little jerky too unless your a regular. Their beers are good but a little pricey unless you go at happy hour or something, decent place and fun to come to now and then, but it can be a money pit if you stay any amount of time. Overall, if you ask me the place is a little pretentious for what it is. Pretty small bar area that gets packed on weekend nights, most times there will be no place to sit. Its ok, and fun to go to now and then but I just dont get some peoples obsession with this place. Im heading over to Firestones...
(3)
LaKisha P.
Great service. Beer selection is great. Food is good, but some items aren't as flavorful as I'd prefer. The bar atmosphere is comfortable and the dog patio is a great addition.
(4)
M L.
Friend and I went here while exploring downtown Frederick. We roamed around for awhile looking for just the right spot and found this place. The large windows offer a great people-watching venue with a nice cold brew in hand. I originally sat facing away from the window, but ended up sitting next to my friend to face the street, checking out the downtown crowd. The food was pretty good, standard bar fare. The beer selection wasn't bad either with options ranging from local to better known brews. There's something hoppy or more fruity for everyone. The server was great...knowledgeable, personable and attentive. There was also an outside seating area that looked very chill, but it was a hot summer day. I would definitely check out this place again.
(4)
Racha H.
My husband and I have been going to Brewer's Alley for a long time. We live in the near by Germantown. The brew there is a draw, but the food is great too. Not the average bar food. There's something for everyone. The woodfire Pizza is also very good. The menu changes some with the season but a few all time fav, like the meatloaf, is always on. Our latest visit was a week ago. We had fried calamary for appetizer. It was fresh and battered and fried just right. Not the frozen stuff some restaurant served. My new personal favourite is the souhthern fried chicken. Very generous portion. The chicken is tender, juicy, and boneless! Sreved with a heap of delish mash potato and white gravy on the top. The gravy was a bit too rich for me. I should have asked for it on the side. The veggie that came with the chicken could have been better because it was the height of summer, instead, the veggie was a soggy disappointing mess. My husband had the lobster. Yes, we were there at Lobster Night ! No surprise there, all good. The lobster came with a salad and fresh crispy fries. Haven't had a bad meal there yet, and hope never, ever will.
(3)
M. M.
I stopped here for lunch while in town and found it to be a serviceable brewpub, nothing fancy. Apparently their patio is the big draw - in addition to enjoying nice weather you can take your dog out there (and I did see dogs on the patio). However, be warned the patio is teeny compared with the rest of the restaurant. The patio was of course full with a waiting line, and I had no dog with me, thought it looked like rain, and would just as soon not have to bat bugs away from my plate, so I opted to sit indoors. I got a booth to myself right away in that manner, although it was in a darkish back room of the restaurant which frankly could use an interior decorating upgrade. I didn't get anything adventurous in the way of food, just soup, oysters (they had 2 kinds) and tried a couple of small beers. It's hard to go wrong with oysters. The menu of beers they brew seemed a bit pedestrian - no unusual seasonals or anything - but the beer was good and I got a growler to take home. The server was very attentive. I would eat here again, it's an okay pub lunch stop. But I can see where the patio would fill up fast or pose a problem if a live band was playing, because it is small. Next time I would probably ask to be indoors in the front room where it is better lit and would feel less like eating in someone's finished basement.
(3)
Chelsea R.
Edited to one star because a server from there sent me a hateful message. Hope you enjoy watching your rating plummet, guys. First, let me just say that I am not that into pub food. But I went here because the Frederick city website said that I this place is dog friendly. I had my four legged buddy, who weighs approximately 10 lbs, attached to my stroller, which had my baby in it. The hostess immediately looked like a deer in headlights because I had my dog with me, and when I told her that the website said that dogs were welcome, she said that they don't normally allow them because some people on the patio might not like dogs. She also added that they sometimes-only sometimes- have a "dog patio". I guess the moral of the story is to call before you park in a parking garage and walk there. And I wasn't welcome to bring my stroller with my child in it on to the patio, either. If you're in a wheelchair, I guess you're out of luck. You'll take up far too much room and the waitress will get snippy. On to the food-I had a "Sunday Special" mimosa which was made with something cheap and the thinnest orange juice I've ever seen. Not a great presentation. I had the fish and chips and it was ok, except that the chips were cold, which isn't surprising because we waited for a long time for our food. The batter is flavorless and crumbly on the fish, and the tarter sauce was closer to an aioli than any tartar sauce I've ever had. It is so runny you can pour it out, and it smells of horseradish. The entire visit took 90 minutes and they weren't even very busy. There were also other people waiting with dogs, but I didn't stick around to find out how they were treated. In summary, this is my second trip to Brewer's Alley and I will probably try the other more dog friendly spots downtown next time.
(1)
Dean W.
We ordered the Quattro Fromaggio Pizza (it came with blue cheese!); it had a really yummy crust. Also the crab cake was very good, Very tasty long island and baked mac N cheese.
(5)
Mary B.
If you need a place to eat that caters to several different taste palettes (and perhaps a picky kid) Brewers is a great choice. There's a reason this place is always packed. The food is good, the beer they brew is great (try their kolsch- mmmm) and the atmosphere is lively. Unless you get there early, plan to never get a seat at the bar- it's just too busy. The old charm of the building itself plus being right in the Heart of Downtown Frederick makes it a good place to bring out of towners. Plus it's so big- you can almost always be seated without a reservation, except maybe for First Saturdays. For food, I enjoy their fish & chips. They also hVe great wood fired pizzas and big salads. For kids there's s ton of stuff. In the summers they open out onto their parking lot and have a pooch patio. They have live music out there, too. We enjoy bringing our dog down and having dinner there. Other people must, too, because it's always filled with pups and their owners.
(5)
Keith L.
Food is good. Patio is nice, however they allow smokers to smoke directly next to the patio. I said something to my server and nothing was done about it. They didn't care that it bothered us. Other tables were complaining also. If you don't like to breath in second hand smoke, eat inside.
(3)
Ze W.
This is probably a great place for beer- I liked the space and friendly service, but sadly the food was just not desirable. We had fried fish tacos, fried chicken sandwich, and steak salad with fried onions- everything fried (all of it) tasted of old frying oil, and overfried. I just couldn't eat it. Really disappointing, but if I were to ever be back, I'd stick with the beer. Four stars for friendliness and accommodation; 2 for actual food... Oh, but I'd forgotten about the chicken soup, which I loved. I'd come back for soup and beer, if anyone ever forced me back...
(3)
Calvin M.
The beer is cheap. Good place to hang out and drink a few. The food, I'm not impressed. Had the fried scrod and falafel. Just wasn't impressed. The fish was very greasy. I'll come back for the beer.
(3)
Rick G.
Great place for quick snack, dinner, to meet for drinks. A place for your 4 legged friends a porch for doggies when the weather is good ... A place to hang, or dine ----- one of the best places in Frederick
(5)
David M.
I just wasn't a fan. It came highly recommended, and I had been here once before for a quick lunch, but that was years ago. This visit was not impressive. The main dining room was small and had that look about it as if it has not been updated since the mid 80's. The bar area looked pretty nice , but for this trip we were only passing through it. The beer was decent taste-wise, but flat. As if their co2 cans were spent. I had two different kinds. Both were flat. And one was a Pilsner, you beer snot. ;) I reckon I should have seen a bubble or two in that. The sandwiches we got were simply lame. I had the brewer's hoagie. My wife had the brisket sandwich. Boring. Both of them. Our server was just off. He was perhaps about to get off work soon since he seemed to be rushing us along. I had a handful of sandwich and he came and took my plate away lol. He asked us "uhm. You all don't want dessert, do you?" We didn't. But it was so awkward. That, and the sweeping around our table. It was just weird. I doubt highly we will wind up going back.
(2)
m. o.
Pretty good brewpub food, as long as you're prepared to wait quite a bit on a weekend to get a table, and then subsequently to get served your meal. If you do go, recommend sitting outside if it is nice or in the front room (rather than the back room) if you eat inside. The back room is devoid of character and noisy. The burgers and chicken BLT was good food and good value. The service was okay.
(3)
Kacie D.
Went for a beer- my husband ordered his and it smelled/tasted horrible. Bartender never came back to ask me what I would like to drink and then charged my husband for his beer that he didn't touch- not even asking if something was wrong. Our 2nd time going there and dealing with this very unpleasant bartender.
(1)
Jack R.
Is the food as good as some of the nearby restaurants? Not quite, but it's close enough, and the prices are better than all of its high-quality neighbors. But the beer. Oh goodness the beer. Unfortunately Brewer's hasn't found a way to sustain a bar population most nights, so this is not going to be your final destination. However, should you be looking to go out downtown, you should start here 100 out of 100 times. Their home-brewed pints are delicious enough to be a premium price, but they still charge under $4 per pint. I can't get a pint of Yuengling at half the bars I go to for $4. The space in the bar used to be a problem. Two years ago the bar was either too dead to enjoy, or full enough that navigation was troublesome. Then they cleared out the tanks and opened up the lobby and boom, problem gone! As a bar, Brewer's needs to figure out how to reach critical mass on nights that aren't Fridays or Saturdays. Once it does that, there will be no reason to go to other bars in Frederick.
(5)
Alicia K.
Food and atmosphere were FANTASTIC. I ordered the turkey burger. It was great. The service was extremely slow, however. We were forgotten many times, which was frustrating.
(4)
Todd M.
Decent food, but could not find a beer that suited me at all. The beers are lacking in depth and flavor in my opinion. The better beers on tap were from Monacacy brewing. The food was lackluster and average at best. There are a lot better beers and food places in town. It is a good place to watch events though with all the TV's and is a great space. Wish they could up their game a bit.
(2)
Jake W.
Great place for Sunday drinks and appetizers while watching the game. My buddy and I got the beer sampler-6 (5oz pour) beers of your choosing for 8 bucks, and the bacon wrapped jalapeños. The jalapeños were amazing. Most of the beer was alright with the exception of the rye pale ale and the stout . Highly recommended for Sunday football.
(4)
Richard M.
My wife and I went to brewers alley last weekend for the first time in years for me, she had never been. It was excellent. Got the beer sampler, fried pickles were best we ever had. Their IPA's are awesome. Service was top notch, our entrees were great, try the fish and chips, everything was reasonably priced. We cant wait to go again.
(5)
Chef A.
For my last visit, I had lunch with a Japanese photographer friend of mine. We caught up on old times and BS'ed over the future of Leica cameras, Japan's world cup football match, and why people who watch bowling on TV are idiots. He had a crab cake, and I just had a faux Guinness which I did not care for. Having had perfect pints in Dublin, it's a bit hard to drink an American Stout. On a trip prior however I had a pilsner and it was ok. Nothing too special, but I can appreciate the local home brew micro-pubs. Also on the last trip I had a burger, made from buffalo and it was pretty good with no complaints. I like this place to be honest, though it's price point is a slight turn off to me. And the beer was nothing special. Still, it's a ncie place to had a quality meal, and BS with friends.
(3)
Ginny S.
25 Aug 2012 5:30 PM Accessibility :Right off Market Street and in the middle of everything! How can you miss it! :) It is also right in front of the parking Garage so if you cannot get parking on the street the Parking Garage is close by! 5 Stars for this location! Customer Service: We were greeted as soon as we entered by really friendly smiles. Our Waiter, Tom U. What a GREAT Guy! Funny and very passionate about the Beers. Hello gave us the entire run down and brought us a couple of samples. Hello brought a couple of kinds to taste. Checked on us frequently. Made some great recommendations for dinner and they did not let us down! We would definitely look for Tom next time and you should too. Definitely a 5 Star Customer Service for this place and visit! Menu: Wow - what is not on the menu! The Chef sure has things right here. Food - I had the Classic Alley Hamburger, Crispy Tobacco Onions and with French Fries. This is a truly wonderful and just one of the best I have had! Wow. If you love a Great Hamburger, get one here! Nice French Fries small slivers and crispy. Just the way I like them. I was not too big of the Onion slivers, but my Husband loved them! So my meal was a definite 5 Stars. My husband had the Fish and Chips, with Cole slaw. The Fish was good, but not a meal He would get again. They gave you one pretty large piece and was not greasy. So it "was good". He did love the French Fries! 3 Stars for him. We were with my Sister and her Husband so we thought we would also get a Desert - We got the very very light Boston Creme Pie. This was really a great way to end the meal. This was really good 5 Stars. My Sister and Husband had Vanilla Ice Cream. I will get this next time! WOW. 5 Stars for that. Beers - How could we come here and not have one of their famous Brewhouse creations! We had - Hefe-Weizen (My personal favorite!) (Perennial Seasonal Beer) A light Weizen beer. This was a great Beer! Kolsch (Year round) A little bitter but has a nice aroma. You cannot go wrong with either of these beers if you normally do not drink fancy Beers. 5 Stars for both of these. Question: Would we come back here again? DEFINITELY! Again and Again. We would highly recommend going to this great place. You will not be disappointed!!
(5)
Laura C.
Great food, generous portions, and beers brewed in-house. We had a salad and the conch chowder, plus a cheeseburger and kolsch-battered fish. The fish was very good, but the batter was a little soggy right next to the fish. The chowder was delicious, but some folks might think it had too much black pepper (not me!). Burger and fries were great. We also got a flight of their beers, at a very cheap $8 for six 5 oz glasses.
(4)
K C G.
1st time here. Great experience, fantastic food. Service was outstanding. My boyfriend got the blackened scallops special and said it was the best he ever had.
(4)
Cully R.
Visited on Christmas Eve with a part of five. We were seated at a table barely large enough for four but they added an extra chair. I guess that made it okay. Appetizers were good. French onion soup was only warm, not hot. Entrees were average. Disappointing since we had eaten there several times a few years back and were very impressed. Food was served very quickly but wait staff didn't check back for drink refills until meal was finished. When they did check back we had to ask them twice to simply remove our empty dishes. There are a lot of outstanding restaurants in the area. We probably will NOT be returning to Brewers any time soon. Merry Christmas!
(2)
Tom M.
I heard from family and friends that Frederick was really trying to liven up their downtown so on our way back to Hagerstown from DC, we decided to give it a try. Anything is better than Hagerstown's lame attempts. There weren't really a whole lot of options downtown that we could see in the dark but after a few passes on Patrick Street, we decided on Brewer's Alley. The front end of the place is most like a bar. It was crowded. noisy and annoying so the faster we could make our way through that area into the dining room, the better. When we got there however, we found ourselves wanting to be back in the bar, minus the throngs of people and the noise. The decor was unimaginative and boring, painted walls with photos and pictures that just didn't work. There was no sense of privacy in the dining room and the tables were crowded together. The lighting was so bright that I wished I had brought my sunglasses. By comparison, this place would pale next to micro breweries in Portland. The vibe just wasn't there. The fact that the "bosses" hovered obviously because there was no place for them to be was annoying, as well. The other thing I found really annoying was a lack of healthy options on the menu and I ended up having an entree salad and sweet potato fries. No meatless dishes or gluten-free options. Restaurants now days would do well to offer those things as more people become gluten intolerant or in other ways, conscious of things they put in their mouth. My partner said his mac and cheese was very good. Next time we're in the area, we'll probably look for something else. Nice try Brewer's Alley but you just missed the mark.
(2)
Sarah M.
I having been eating at Brewers Alley for the 6 years and have slowly seen a huge decline in the past 2 years. This used to be our families "hot spot" to go when people came to town, but after a multiple bad experiences we stopped taking people there due to poor food quality, anything besides the pizza is a HUGE disappointment. Servers in the bar area are down right offensive and obscenely rude, I was suckered in to going last Saturday night and the waitress in the bar area offended our whole group of 9 repeatedly and we ended up leaving without ordering food because of her attitude. This was once a landmark in Frederick and sadly has gone down hill very fast. If you do decide to go, stick to the pizza, stay away from the bar, and try the beer...its pretty good.
(1)
Keith W.
Great location but fell short in a quality meal. I ordered the mushroom burger (medium rare) and it came out medium with little to no flavor. It is advertised as a 1/2lb burger and it was work like 1/4lbs. The cole slaw was pretty good and the overall service was excellent. At my table the chicken wings and pizza meat monster received very good reviews, as well as the black bean burger. The price was average which goes along with the entire theme of Brewer's Alley. If you are looking for average food in a decent location then this is your place. I would recommend to try somewhere else first though.
(3)
Connie M.
Second time I ate here and this time was pretty bad. The beer was flat so we had to send it back (really, this is a brewery!). We ordered sandwiches which were pretty bad and had no taste served with cold fries. I could understand some slippage if the place was packed, but half the restaurant was empty. I won't be returning.
(2)
Allison D.
I wouldn't say that Brewer's Alley is my favorite restaurant in Frederick, but it's certainly the restaurant that I find myself at most often. The greatest thing about it (besides the beer, which I'll get to in a moment) is that it's really like four restaurants in one, depending on your mood and preference. My favorite part is the bar; not just because it's "the bar", but because it has a dark and cozy pub feeling. If you're lucky enough to snag a table, you can hang out for several hours (hopefully enjoying their fabulous beer). Unfortunately, unless you get there early, you're not likely to find a table on the weekend. There is a more romantic upstairs area that is reserved for special occasion "course" dinners and private parties. The side dining room is a little less romantic/intimate, but still OK and I really don't like the back dining room at all. It's brightly lit and open and I always feel like I'm on display. They also have a patio with about ten tables but, unless you get there early, you're probably going to wait for a loooong time to sit out there. The food is good; some of it is fantastic and some of it makes you wonder what they were thinking. You can spend as much or as little as you want on food since they have everything from good-sized appetizers that could make a small meal to salads and sandwiches to full entrees. Their menu changes pretty regularly, so there are always new things to try. I'm adding this to my "Frederick Pizza Joints" list because I think they have the best pizza in Frederick. Some of the combinations of toppings are great and some belong in that what were they thinking category, but they are wood fired and awesome ( yelp.com/biz_photos/-9au… ). But, like I said before, the best thing about Brewer's Alley is the beer. Their oatmeal stout is the best I've ever had; so black that no light penetrates it. They have a beer sampler, so you can try any that you're not familiar with. They have about eight beers that are always available (including oatmeal stout) as well as several rotating seasonals. Usually there are about 12-14 beers to choose from. Their servers are great; many of them have been there since we first moved to Frederick in 2001...and extra special kudos to them for being open during Snowmageddon. They fed us and kept us drunk throughout the entire ordeal.
(4)
Sunny C.
Their oatmeal stout is the best stout I've had so far. Better than Guinness. Plenty of outdoor seating. Their pear pastry with cinnamon ice cream (limited time special) was divine. Plaintain mahi was creative and paired nicely with the spinach and potatoes. I had an enjoyable dining experience.
(4)
Susan S.
I'll be brief. This used to be a favorite restaurant. Now, I'll only eat pizza there. It's excellent, usually. Stay away from the more unorthodox combos- they promise big flavors and end up disappointing. I like the staff and bartenders. Atmosphere is good, too. Beer is excellent. I don't know when they started going downhill, but several changes of chefs in the past 20 years have left them near the bottom of the barrel. I'll pay for good food- but, they've run out of chances. How can you screw up a hamburger or pizza? Other than that, we don't eat there anymore.
(2)
Pengilicious E.
I've been here three times and always a disappointment! They have wide selections of draft. If you're thinking of having dinner then go somewhere else first then come here after dinner for drinks.
(2)
Jojo S.
The first two times i came to Brewer's Alley i thought people who complained about the food were crazy. My sandwiches were great, the beer was very good and you could sit outside. Service was a bit on a slow side, but pleasant enough. Sadly, that's where is stopped. In the next 5 visits i've seen food vary from poor to completely inedible. Why did i keep coming back against my better judgment? Propelled by memories of my first-time pleasant experience , and of course for the beer and outside sitting. However, after the last time, which was particularly bad, i'm done. Looks like they have some major kitchen management problems. No quality control seems to exist, and the waiters don't even look at the dishes they are brining (trust me, you just have to look at some of them to know better then to serve them). The waiters don't seem to be particularly surprised or apologetic when the food gets sent back. I guess it's something they got used to. Of course, because the service is so slow you are likely to not have another shot at your order. On the up side, they do credit you for dishes without question. Oh, and don't get excited when you see they have the wood pizza oven. They don't really know how to do it justice. At best, your pizza will be mediocre. Sorry, not even remotely up to par. What a shame, too, as the ingredients seem fine (before they get ruined by the kitchen that is). Get a drink and enjoy the outside, but don't count on having dinner there.
(2)
H B.
I can not for the life of me figure out how this place is always packed! I have been here 3 times and it has been terrible 3 times. Once I ate and had a few beers at happy hour and sat in the bar area- food was bad, beer was ok. So all in all, it wasn't worth the happy hour price. Second time we tried it for dinner. We even brought friends. 4 of us had burgers and 4 of us were sick after eating them. Not awesome. I feel worse for my friends because they had to drive back to DC after that! And the 3rd time we went with kids because it was open and was the only kid friendly place that had a table. It took us forever to get our food. Not going back. With so many great restaurants in Frederick- why would we!
(1)
Kimba G.
Now that I have been there a few times I have a good idea of the quality. They just remolded and changed a number of things. The place looks great! Love their Pulled Pork Sandwich, Pot Roast, Bread Pudding, etc. Everything I have had as been great! The service is good and it is consistent in the quality of food it services.
(3)
Hillary B.
I keep trying this place, the staff is always so nice, it's clean, and the beer is good but I have yet to eat a decent meal here. So disappointing. I have eaten here five times and each time try a different menu item. All taste-free, every time. But everyone is so nice.
(2)
Jeff Z.
Very good and a nice atmosphere. I had the fish tacos and they were delicious! I would have given them four stars but the $5 salad was rather small.
(3)
Katie H.
Unfortunately I had a REALLY bad experience here on Sunday November 10th. We showed up at 2 15 pm and there were 7 of us - 3 kids, 4 adults. When the beers were to be ordered, almost every one that our party asked for was OUT OF STOCK. The two beer drinkers settled for an IPA rather than the lagers they wanted originally. Appetizers were not so good - pork taquitos were greasy; crab dip tasted like 99% cheese with possibly ONE piece of crab meat :(. We waited more than 40 minutes for our food and when it arrived only two people were happy with their meals (kids). My soup of the day was out and I was not notified until after my meal was brought out (food arrived but no Portuguese sausage stew.... when my server came by, she seemed flustered. The woman who was bringing food out said they were out. I asked why I was being informed only now about it and not when my order was taken). My dad's chicken was bland and tasted like it had been cooked ages ago and just warmed up as an afterthought. My mom's mussels had one drop of sauce on it. My boyfriend's burger - ordered Medium Rare was definitely more Rare than he wanted it to be. Sad to say I do not think we will be coming back here, especially since we did not want to leave a tip due to the lack of beer selections, the wait for the food and the quality of the food. We were charged almost $25 in gratuity which was a rip off considering the quality of the food.
(1)
Eric E.
Not much in life I like better than a good brew pub, so I wish Brewer's Alley tried just a little harder. The food is pretty good, but several nearby joints are better. The beers are pretty good, but nothing really stands out. The service is good, the ambiance is good, and the crowd is pleasant. I will surely be back, but it seems they are coasting a bit because their downtown Market Street location is SWEET. Too bad.
(3)
Briana Leigh A.
what was ordered: (app) stuffed jalapenos (my) oatmeal stout beer pot roast w/ cheddar mash & celery root (special) (his) resinator beer wings french onion soup (dessert) blueberry crumble (sepcial) first of all, our beers were amazing and less than $4. you'll get five stars regardless. all of the food was delicious. i have absolutely no complaints. appetizer was tasty. his wings were crispy and had the perfect amount of sauce. his soup was perfect. great flavor and cheese was exactly how it should be - melted. (so often you order french onion soup, it comes out and you're sitting there wondering.. what the hell is this shit?) well, this was the kind of french onion soup you dream about. because the pot roast was on the special menu, it was a must try. i've tried stews and roasts from different restaurants that feature these items on their permanent menu and unfortunately, it's never cooked long enough. how do you charge $16+ and not properly.. "stew" it? there's nothing SPECIAL about it. but this was tender, flavorful and warming. delicious. i shared it with him because he made a very poor decision only getting wings and a soup. because the food was so surprisingly good, we ordered the dessert on the special menu. blueberry crumble was warm and full of blueberries. crust was crispy and added a great balance to the dish. our waitress was very sweet and attentive. will be returning and will be hitting the treadmill or Insanity. downtown Frederick has some great eats.
(5)
Jeff S.
Went here with my brother to enjoy some fine brews and get a bite to eat. We ended up skipping the food and went straight to the beer. We grabbed a sampler plate, 6 beers handpicked by our bartender - asked her to pick her favorite. We ended up trying everything they had. No real standouts, although their IPA and Dopplebock were very solid. They had one of those bourbon cask-aged brews...it tasted like it belonged in a tumbler topped off with Coke - not necessarily a bad thing, just not my cup-O-tea. The bar area was pretty nice. Definitely a place for beer geeks to congregate in the Frederick area. I would probably come here again if in that part of town, but I will definitely have to give the kitchen a try for a more complete review.
(3)
Michael Z.
Got the special of the day. The fish was good, a little small in portion but it was delicious.
(4)
Charlie B.
Great food, beer and service. Had the BBQ sandwich, and tried the andouille pizza, both were awesome. Service was really good also, responsive and friendly at all times. Highly recommend going for anything from HH to a formal dinner. Easy to rate this one... 5 stars.
(5)
Lily B.
Perfect upscale twist to classic bar food and beer brewed on site. Enjoy fried pickles and Mac n cheese bites. Gluten free beer should be on the menu soon. A good go-to bar.
(3)
Brigette K.
The beer and bar atmosphere is great! This building is amazing. Gets kinda busy though. Wednesday is Cajun Night. Opera House IPA is amazing (when they have it!)
(4)
Ryan P.
Fourth or fifth time here and it seems to be getting more average (read "worse") every time. The fried, Panko breaded dill spears were very good, but the caesar salad was an overpriced joke and the service was a bit slow given a mostly empty dining room. I've had nearly great food here in the past, so here's to hoping this downward trend ends soon. I will always applaud Brewer's Alley for their beer selection and great location.
(2)
Tom W.
My wife and I stopped here for some light appetizers and a brew. With all of the choices in Frederick, we should have found another place. First, I really wanted to like the Alley so maybe my expectations were a little high. We both ordered the 1634 pint. Although $3.67 is cheap for a pint, this beer is not good. It's a little watery and doesn't have the proper head. I can't speak to the other beers they brew since we didn't have them. We ordered the Shrimp and Avocado Timbale. This is good but c'mon, it's a few shrimp, a few pieces of avocado, some mayo, and lemon juice...for 11 bucks. Oh wait, I forgot, it has a toasted piece of bread with it. It's still 11 bucks and that's crazy. We also had the Poblano and Crab dip. This came with broken corn chips that were from a giant bag. Although the dip was ok, you could tell it was mostly sour cream. Again, this app is 11 bucks. More craziness. So 2 pints and 2 apps for $31.32. I know Frederick can be a little pricey but this is a little on the high side. Probably will be back at some time just because we love breweries but this place is no longer on the "must go" list.
I visited this spot twice and have been satisfied on both occasions. On my first visit I ordered an Alley Burger I believe it was to satisfying results. I came back with family on the second trip and had the Caribbean Chicken with Mango Salsa which I thought was great. My woman got the surf and turf and the crab-cake. I also would recommend the grilled tilapia which we also thought was pretty good.
(5)
Jenn C.
I recently went to a wedding here on the 2nd floor. The place is gorgeous with lots of charm. I enjoyed the food - I had grilled chicken marsala with mashed potatos, which was excellent. I tried the steak, which was also very good, and my sister had the crab cake which she enjoyed very much. The staff were pleasant, and I never got the feeling of being rushed. All in all, a great experience!
(4)
Colleen F.
Brewer's Ally is a staple in my family. They have good beer, and a creative menu. A vegetarian can usually find something interesting to eat, although less so than in previous years. The restaurant is kid friendly. The cheese stuffed pretzel with ranch dressing is a must.
(4)
Thomas B.
Favorite spot for locally brewed beer on tap. Great selection of quick eats and entrees. Try the pizzas too. Good stuff. Take a growler home with you after it is said and done and keep the party going at home.
(4)
Kjirsten K.
I was in Frederick for one week and out of all the restaurants I tried, this was the best. The crab cake with potato puree and asparagus was delicious and so was the beer. The restaurant is large with plenty of seating, a bar area, and a very nice outdoor patio. My biggest regret is not making it back here one more time before I left. See you next time Brewer's Alley!
(5)
Amanda C.
Delicious food and beer. I highly recommend the Riot Rye and the lamb burger. Also great service: we had to wait quite a while on a First Saturday, and they compd us a round.
(5)
Nicole A.
I really want to be able to leave a better review. I love sitting outside here and the beer is good. The issue is the only thing here that is consistently decent is the pizza. I have been twice very recently and sat on the puppy patio the most recent visit being last night. The first time I got fish and chips and the fish was really bad. It had an off fishy smell to it and it had obviously been sitting because it was very soggy. It just wasn't edible. The server disappeared after we got our food but if he hadn't I would have sent it back for something else. By the time he came back my husband was done eating so I didn't bother but only could eat the fries. I told him about the issue but he shrugged it off and said they were busy. Last night I got the chicken sandwich. The chicken was good, issue is they forgot ALL toppings and sauce. I got the server to bring me toppings on the side later to add but by the time I got them the sandwich was cold. The manager came out to apologize but honestly I feel like they should have given me something off the bill. He just said to next time order the wrap since it holds the ingredients better. I think not. Also both visits we had serious issues getting drinks refilled. I drink a lot of water I will admit, but the servers just disappear and when one comes out with iced tea and water they only fill for their tables unless you make a large animated effort to flag them down. Both visits we sat with no drinks for a large portion of the time. I would think they would at least make a better effort to refill beer. Not all is bad, both of these times my husband has ordered a pizza and both times it has been very good. The fresh mozzarella is awesome and the pizza gets a great flavor from the wood oven. Also they have very good French fries. Would I go again? Possibly if I was downtown with my dogs and really wanted pizza but I wouldn't get anything other than pizza since they couldn't even get a sandwich right. Because of the issues with drink refills though I'd probably be more likely to hit the golden mile for Il Forno pizza. The service has been much better there.
(2)
Michael C.
I was not impressed with their overall services. They have not met my service needs. Their beers were "meh ok" but have had much better beers from other Maryland Micro Brew. The food quality was so-so. I have had better burger and fries from other micro brews in Maryland and other state.
(1)
Abigail O.
this is a really fun and classy place in such a cool area. i love how frederick has turned into a destination town (for me, anyway) where you can spend the whole evening going to shops, restaurants and bars, and not have a hellish parking experience. the beers here are good, but as with other reviews, the seasonals are better than the standards... i always find that kind of weird. wouldn't your standards be the ones you did best, instead of just picking one light/pils, one amber, one hoppy, and one dark/porter/stout? i appreciate being well-rounded, but i'd rather have high quality than variation. but i digress. the food here is pretty excellent. mac and cheese was standard (i.e. awesome), pork butt was so good that those of us who didn't get it stole it off the others' plates. service was very good both times i went (once with a large party upstairs, and once with my boyfriend at the bar). i'll definitely be going back when i make it to frederick again!
(4)
Jon K.
A solid 4 stars, would have gotten 5 if this review was written a few years ago. First things first, lets get to the beer. This place has excellent beers and they brew them on the premises. I had never thought I would find one of these type of places that does an excellent job on brewing their beer and excellent food. The interior of this place looks half bar and half restaurant. It's in a historic part of Frederick and the building that it's nestled away in might even be a historic building. They have several TV's in the bar area and inside and outside dining areas as well. The only thing that irks me about this place is I have been eating here for several years and I always get the pizzas or the crab cake platter. Well, they used serve two large crab cakes on a platter surrounded by veggies and such (these are fantastic). I noticed a few years ago they started to only serve one and cut down on the portion size (no cut in price though). Anyway, it's not that big of deal I guess because everyone is trying to control costs because of inflation but I come here less often now because of that (there are many fantastic options in this area). By the way, both the pizza and crab cakes are fantastic here. The service here is top notch and we have always been well taken care of by the staff. Give it a try if you're in the Frederick area.....
(4)
Matt K.
I lived in downtown Frederick for 2 years, and this place served me well many a time. This place is well worth a visit if you're looking for good beer and pretty good food. They make their own beers and they are pretty tasty. I am a fan of IPA but if you're a coors light (water) guy, then the Kolsch is probably the closest beer to your speed. People rag some of the food here, but you have to know what to get. Pizzas, burgers, wings, nachos, salads are good. They got good wing sauce and a very nice house vinaigrette. Blackened tilapia is very good. Their salmon tends to be a little fishy, and any fancy dish that sounds intricate might be a little risky. The sweet potato fries are a must!! They have rock salt on them and are cooked perfectly!! It can get crowded on the weekends on account of the meat heads that show up. You might see a few popped collars from guys that just got done lifting at Gold's but it isn't all that bad. Happy hours 4-9 on Mondays and Tuesdays! 2.50 house drafts! You gotta love a happy hour that doesn't end at 6. They also have $5 appetizers that go very well with a brew. So go, have a good beer, take home a growler if you find a brew you really like, and don't expect Volt-style panache. The bar area is very warm and comforting due to the hardwood.
(4)
Anne M.
Great food and beverage selection. Delicious !!!!! Our party of 5 enjoyed large scrumptious servings delivered promptly. Everything (including the decor and bathroom) was just right. Our server Heather is a wonderful server;RIGHT ON :-D
(5)
Nick L.
Not at all impressed. I do have to say the beer was good though. We ordered a small pizza and it took well over 30 minutes to come out. When it finally arrived it was cold and soggy. The server graciously took it back as she should but we were starving and did not want to wait for a new one. We paid the bar tab and headed down the street.
(2)
Sher Y.
Pizza was amazing and prices were also on par. I also had the California Pizza. Delicious. yes yes it was.
(4)
M F.
I have been to Brewer on quite a few occasions but mainly for drinks. Yesterday a group of us from work decided to have lunch at Brewers... and probably will never go back for lunch, but will continue to visit for happy hours and drinks. We were greeted by the friendly staff but that is where the service stopped. We were a party of 7 and not the only group in the dining room. The wait staff was less than tentative. It took approximately 20 min before our orders were taken, took another 45 min to receive our appetizers another 30 min to receive our lunches. At this point we are up to an hour a half... mind you we were on a lunch from work... upon receiving our food we requested our checks. Steak sandwich was over cooked; the chicken fingers had a hair in it and were sent back. The manager did offer to bring out another steak sandwich and chicken fingers. I'm sorry but after the hair, I was not hungry and no one wanted to wait any longer for food. Due to the time already wasted waiting we also asked for boxes for ALL of our food to go. We were offered 2 free desserts for the wait (O this took another 20 min of a wait). After requesting boxes and our checks, they were not received for another 30 min... An ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!!!! Another complaint was made to the manager and 1/2 of our food was comp'd to us.... Still absolutely horrible service and wait time. I'm not sure what happened or why... but there were other tables of 4+ who came in after our group and left before our group. Still the place was not busy. Funny, there was another table that actually got up to leave and asked for their checks on the way out the door. We did not order anything difficult or that should have taken so long to cook: Margarita Pizza Chicken Salad Sandwich Chicken Fingers Chicken Sandwich Steak Sandwich Mac n cheese Rueben Sandwich Sorry but this shouldn't have taken that long. Horrible visit won't be back for lunch ever!!!!!
(1)
Adam O.
Food was good. Prices were reasonable.
(4)
Li D.
This is an "okay" brew pub. The beer and the burgers are good. I had the California burger, which was tasty and quite large. The wings (appetizer) was so-so. Service was efficient. We sat in the back room, which was very crowded.
(3)
Matt W.
Love this place. The bar area is a little small, but that's standard in downtown Frederick. The restaurant is pretty good, and so is the food. I love the beers that are brewed on site. Pretty low key most of the time, meaning that it's a great place to go if you don't want a band blaring in your ear all night.
(5)
Renee Z.
My family moved to Frederick in 2008. We use to come to Brewery's Alley all the time it was our go to place when we had company. The food was good, the beer was good, and the service was great as well. That was the way it use to be! As in recent visits the service has been poor and wait times terrible! We recently went this weekend as my mother in law and mother were in town we wanted a quick bite well that was a joke. We were sat on the puppy patio which they said there were signs out front that all 3 of us missed that said that. We were not informed of it as well when sat if I would have known I would have gladly sat inside or waited for a spot out front. I saw dogs jumping on tables, staff petting dogs, giving treats, and not for sure if they washed their hands. I was so grossed out! As were my guests. I would have gladly waited or ate inside if we were informed before my daughter received her food. We ate, the food was ok the beer was still good, the server barely came around. We then got our checks we paid and left. Today I looked at my bank statement as I usually do each day. I noticed I was charged 4 separate times! The server apparently swiped my moms bill on my account which they said was a mistake by the waiter (which he never informed me about)they said the charges was returned, which was not reflected as my bank shows refunds. The lady I spoke to who was a manger was rude and condescending about what had just happened instead of making it right! When you go out to eat at a place you expect good service since you are paying for it, well if you are looking for that I would not go here! We will no longer after this visit as it was the straw that broke the camels back!!! I hope brewers alley takes a look at this and looks at their staff and their costumer service practices as they are piss poor at best. I WILL NEVER GO HERE AGAIN! Which is sad since we use to love it.
(1)
Susan T.
I spent a lot of time in Frederick, MD recently and this is one of those "go-to" locations. They have an outdoor patio and there are always people waiting for a table. The nachos were good, our waitress was funny and nice. And the beer...we tried a seasonal ale...1649 or something like that...that is made from an old brewers recipe. Although this isn't mentioned on their beer list...it's our favorite and we were told they were going to start brewing this in bottles at the end of the year. You can get "growlers" and "mini kegs" and "kegs" of their ales...just call the brewmasters to find out what is available. The "growlers" stay fresh for 2 weeks. I'm planning to go get some growlers for my trip to Edisto Beach in May I like this beer so much...LOL. I do think you should stick with sandwiches, salads and pizza as far as food...but this place has a regular clientele and is popular. It is a good hang out place...
(4)
Victoria Z.
Whether I'm here for lunch or dinner Brewer's has yet to disappoint me as well as everyone else in Frederick so keep that in mind on the weekend! For some reason I am addicted to their sauteed asparagus and their mac n' cheese. I think Brewer's appeals to many because of their homemade ale and their wood oven pizzas. They have a creative selection as well as daily specials. I have yet to get unfriendly waitstaff. I love the feel of this old building, especially when I park in the garage behind it and can smell the food on the way in and check out the stained glass windows.
(4)
Hannah M.
We had dinner at Brewer's Thursday night for Lobster Night. Little did we know, it was also NY Sirloin night. My daughter had lobster. The rest of us had the steak. All of it was outstanding. We were surprised that we didn't get steak knives but we didn't need them. The steaks were so tender. The only minor complaint I have is the drinks weren't refilled unless we requested. But they were very busy. Still a pleasant evening out.
(4)
Katie Y.
Brewers beer and burgers are so incredibly good that whenever I have to travel north from DC, I take Route 270 instead of 95 just so I can pass through Frederick to chow down on a burger, regardless of my level of hunger, and throw back a pint of hand-crafted beer. I've had a few of their other dishes, but really, just stick with the burgers, which are made with local grass-fed beef and accompanied with delicious thin-cut fries. Plan on spending $9 for this burger heaven, and plan on leaving fully satisfied. They advertise on the menu that they source as much as their food as possible from truly local farmers, yet they don't jack up the prices or attempt to be fancy-pants haute-cuisine. This is pub-food done right - tasty but without the grease overload (burgers, reubens, salads, pizzas, etc). Pints of their amazing beer cost UNDER $4 (no, that's not strictly a happy-hour price) and around $10 to fill up a 2-Liter Growler (initial $15 deposit on the oh-so-cool glass growler). Their Oatmeal Stout (6.7% alc.) is incredibly smooth, their Hefeweizen is sweet and slightly tangy, their Nutbrown Ale is delish, and their Maibock (7% alc.) is also Growler-worthy. Trinity Stout is a bit too bitter for me, but great nonetheless. On my last visit, the people next to us at the bar ordered Bud Light, which nearly shot an arrow through my heart. If I owned a car, I would regularly be trekking out here to fill up growlers with this delectable affordable beer - there's no need to drink something like Bud Light when this is around! Sit in the front bar area that is shadowed by the giant beer vats, or the patio if the weather permits - don't bother with the back restaurant area, which is loud and crowded and a bit too sterile as far as atmosphere goes. I would bump up the rating to five stars if the staff was just a little more interested and friendly, rather than apathetic and acting like they're from Philly or B'more. Come on - you're from a small town. You're supposed to be sweet and helpful and stuff - don't shatter this city gal's image of small-town life!
(4)
Malarie B.
This is a cute place that always seems to be hoppin'. It's a staple of the area now, and pretty much everyone here will know where and what you are talking about when you bring up this place. This place is owned by the same people who own and run Isabella's and, frankly, it's the weaker of the two. This place is great for families and groups. Lots of space and seating! The food was good, not wonderful but good. And, unfortunately, my beer (the IPA) was almost entirely flat, as was my friend's. Kind of a huge disappointment when going to BREWERS alley, but meh. The service was delightful and I wasn't disappointed with my food, so all in all, I think this is a fine space to check out if you are in the area.
(3)
Chris K.
My friend and I went on a week night. We heard their pizza was delicious, not to mention their brews. Service was quick and friendly. We got our pizzas -- gosh I can't remember the names but mine was the ranch chicken and hers was the plain cheese. She got the 1868 (?) beer, and I got the oatmeal stout. Our waitress was friendly and accommodating. We stayed an extra 40 minutes after our meal was over and tipped for that inconvenience. I would definitely recommend this place for its pizzas and beer.
(4)
Karin S.
Beer good, but that's about it. Burgers were ok, but appetizers and fries were typical greasy, tasteless, fried bar food. A friend with us actually got a little sick (nausea)about an hour after eating there. Place was kind of musty. Not the upbeat, fun place we expected. Blah.
(2)
Johnny L.
Excellent place! Sometimes service is a little slow for lunch on weekends, but the food is delicious and the staff are personable, friendly, and fun. I recommend the Reubens, they make their own corned beef and it's phenomenal. And the apple and goat cheese pizza is fantastic.
(4)
Amy A.
The food is good and they will make any adjustments or accommodations you want/need for dietary purposes. The wait staff is very nice and tastes everything so they know what to recommend. I am not a beer drinker but everyone I have went with loves their beer. Highly recommend and my children also like it eat there.
(5)
Brad B.
The only saving grace was the beer. We ordered Margarita Pizza. Unfortunately, it had so much garlic in the sauce we couldn't eat but a bite or two. They did take it off our bill without us asking though. Place was super snooty on the Saturday evening we were there.
(1)
Shawn F.
What fantastic service, beer, and food! We were dining on the patio with our Labrador and a rain storm hit. The staff moved us into the vestibule with the dog and served us there. Another couple was there with their two large dogs and were also set up to dine with dogs. It was a great evening enjoyed by humans and the dogs! Thanks!!
(5)
Ginger W.
I used to really dislike this place because when my family goes out to dinner, we tend to stick with the quiet, nicer end of things. Previous experiences over the years were pretty consistent, with an extremely loud dining room of people drinking Bud Light pitchers. You get the idea. Kids running everywhere, and adults acting like children, it really wasn't our family's kind of place. That said, I have been back recently multiple times and it has improved my overall opinion. I would still say that this is not a place to bring a quiet family or a date. It is not intimate, romantic, quiet, civilized, relaxing, upscale, or with a noise level suitable to having conversation without being hoarse. However, there are still things it does very well, and I am a firm believer in judging a place on what it appears to be striving for and not just on the qualities that I personally have moods for. Brewer's Alley has excellent beer and beer-related food. My personal favorites are the 1634 and IPA. I am a beer sipper, so I don't generally get more than a glass of something, but I am much more focused on the different flavors and things. They do a good job. The food is really bar food, done well. The calamari is an awesome snack, and they make some delicious burgers. It's not pretentious food, but its good food, and with beer, that's the important thing. Brewer's Alley is an awesome place to chill and eat outside, particularly if you have a dog. They are really nice about helping people with dogs get in and out easily and quickly. The little patio area really is a people-watching mecca for locals. Everyone walks by there, and it gets some nice sun without being boiling hot. I really enjoy it, even if I am just passing through. Brewer's Alley has some excellent service. It is prompt, kind, and generally populated by people who know the area and are from the area. At a neighborhood brewery, that's really what you want to see. Brewer's Alley does a lot to contribute to the town resident night life in downtown Frederick (not just Friday and Saturday nights) and also to be an active part of the downtown community, without being at all pretentiously "suburbs of DC" about it. They have free gumbo, lots of tvs for games, and a pretty busy scene on busier days. There is always something going on.
(3)
Laura T.
After a few hours of shred time at Liberty, we rolled into town looking for some good food and drinks. We stumbled upon Brewer's Alley and hoped to find some space in the bar area. Friday night about 7:30pm.... no luck. So we grabbed a table in the dining area. The menu was loaded with so many choices, it was almost too difficult to choose just one thing for dinner. The lobster and shrimp mac N cheese jumped off the special menu, and my decision was made. Only when I received my entree, I was disappointed that the pasta and sauce seemed more like a cheesy alfredo sauce lightly blanketing large, smooth, tubular pieces of pasta, than a hearty, gooey blend of noodles and cheese delightfully fused together. Otherwise, the shrimp and lobster were plentiful, but the mac N cheese itself was rather disappointing. However, the fresh bread, home made soups I tasted (MMM! potato and artichoke), and drinks were on point. Both friends enjoyed their entrees (chicken/lobster pot pie & the tilapia entree), and I was happy that my scotch was a nice full serving presented shortly after we placed our drink orders. I like the casual atmosphere, and menu that has a mix of lighter fare plus larger plate entrees. The dessert menu also looked incredibly enticing, but we decided to save that for another day. Despite my less than satisfying dish, I was still able to achieve that warm, relaxed and cozy feel. And after a day on the slopes, that is really all that matters.
(3)
Addison T.
I had high hopes for this place after reading some of the reviews. It ended up being just ok. We ordered the surf and turf on lobster night and it was such a good price! We also ordered the sampler of beers. The beers seemed watered down. Also there was a bug that kept crawling on my husband. At least I hope it was one bug and not different ones. Again trying to give the benefit of the doubt because the have at outdoor area and anything could crawl in. The oysters were good! All in all it was worth 3.5 stars.
(3)
Sean M.
Great food. I'm not sure who the chef is here but he/she does an excellent job, So far we've had the steak, lobster and fried fish and it has all been exceptional. The side dishes are not the best around but the home made beer and cheap yet delicious mixed drinks make up for that. Not to mention the great service. Will definitely suggest to friends.
(5)
Stephanie S.
Good beer, good food, unique atmosphere: that's how I'd sum up Brewer's Alley. You can go to this place for a lunch, dinner, or just for drinks. I should know, I've done all three. :) The last time I went, I had a great meal off their lunch menu. This was the first time I had lobster bisque, so I can't really compare to others. I CAN say that I would definitely have it again. I also had one of their featured sandwiches: bacon, goat cheese and greens on ciabatta bread. I'm not sure of the specific name, but I'll just call it Deliciousness. The bacon was carmelized, I believe. It definitely wasn't super crispy, like on a BLT. Other things I would recommend: their pizza (I've had the pepperoni) and their Nut Brown Ale. It's probably one of the most delicious beers I've ever had. The only down side: I think the front end of their dining room has a distinct smell of cleaners. Like the odor you smell sometimes when you sit at a bar where the dirty rags are stored. I can't really explain it, but it definitely hits you as soon as you enter the dining room. Try to get a table on the far end, away from the kitchen, if possible.
(4)
Marilyn e.
Stopped for lunch at the Brewer's Alley 01/02/12 and was very disappointed. The food was mediocre and the service from the kitchen was SLOW!!! Sweet potato fries had way too much salt and were barely warm. The hamburger was dry. Fish tacos were okay. Probably the most irritating thing about our experience there was the staff cleaning with a roller vacuum all around us while we were trying to eat and have a conversation. Also, I find this not to be very sanitary. Our server, Danielle, was very good and the best thing about Brewer's Alley. But won't be returning. I've heard there are too many other good places to eat in Frederick.
(1)
Bridget H.
This place is amazing. No, seriously! Brewer's Alley has great food, friendly and quick service, and great selection of ale. They even have seasonal ales too! I really enjoyed their pumpkin ale, I got to sample it this past Thanksgiving. This time, I tried a nutty brown ale. My favorite meal has to be the ham & cheese with local ham from Woodsboro. The portion size is not too small, but it isn't so big, you feel really "stuffed" after eating there.
(5)
Diane T.
It was our first trip to Frederick and we were really looking forward to Brewer's Alley. We weren't disappointed. We had good timing. It was about 1pm and we got the last two seats at the bar. after that, the place was jammed. I really like their Dunkle Weis, but that's probably because it was lighter than your usual Dunkle. I would consider it a cross between a Hefeweisen and Dunkle Weis. Boyfriend like the IPA the best out of what he tried. The bartenders were friendly and had no problem filling us in on all the nuances of their beer. I think they had about 12 on draft, including their 1634 ale, which is supposed to be a rye-based colonial ale. For lunch I had the sliders. At first I was concerned because it was $8 for only 2-sliders, but they were pretty thick for sliders and loaded with cheese and carmelized onions, so those little hamburgers kept me going all day. There are so many restaurants in Frederick that look so inviting and I'd like to try them on future trips, but I think I'll find a way to fit in Brewer's Alley, as well.
(4)
Ryan P.
Returned to Brewers after over a year since my first experience. Again just meh. Nothing to write home about to say the least. We both got beers, Kolsch and the Seasonal Chocolate (Can't remember the name). The Kolsch was good, but not light enough for a true Kolsch in my opinion. The Chocolate beer was one of the worst chocolate brews I have ever had. It needed a twist of something in it to pick it up, either cherry or raspberry to give it some depth. However the beer was the only positive yet again of this place. Our party got varied dishes. We started with the Crab and Poblano Cheese Dip. What a waste of money. I could've easily put together the cream cheese and cheap canned crap concoction that this was. I didn't even find any pepper what so ever in it, pretty bland and more cream cheese than crab for sure. I had the Portabella Burger and thought it was okay at best, the mushrooms were a bit tough and needed longer on the grill. My partner and I both got those skimpy fries again. Hate them! Another member of our party got the Caesar Salad with Chicken, and said it was the worth the salad she's had. The lettuce was mostly the stalks of the romaine rather than the leave and the dressing was bland and oily. I mean if you can't do a simple Caesar salad right, then just get out of the biz! The pizza the other person in our party ordered was greasy and slightly burnt from the looks of me. Overall I would skip this place all together, I don't think the third time is the charm, nor will they get one from me!
(2)
Xopher D.
Great for the brews -- and totally average for food. Been here a few times with large groups in town for business. Service has always been stellar, even to the point of separate checks for parties of 10 or more. And the selection and quality of brews matches the service. There's always something for anyone who likes beer: from light bubbly lagers to deep dark stouts. Well now, the food is just okay. The burgers are fine, the gumbo is fine, the salads are fresh, but nothing is spectacular. And for the prices charged, you'd expect a bit more. You're paying for location here, not culinary je ne sais quois. But like the name says, it's really all about the beer. Drink up!
(3)
Jim G.
Would love to tell you to go here. I have known the brewer since my 1995 and really want to support them. Unfortunately, the beer is common. It's a cool place because there isn't anything better. If you like true to style (i.e gauge beer) by all means, stop by and enjoy. If you want your beer to be over the top or different, keep going. NOW.. I will say, the 1634 was interesting. The caroway was overpowering. Tasted like drinking rye bread, but it was interesting. The other beers, (5 of them) were just so-so. We had a wood fired pizza. Again so-so. Don't get me wrong, I will stop again the next time I am in Frederick, but only until something better opens up.
(2)
Karl M.
Decent brewpub, good beers and I recommend the crab cakes and pizza.
(4)
Lelia S.
Yum! I went to Brewer's Alley for a work function and the food and service were outstanding. The crab dip and calamari for appetizers were well prepared and a nice start to the meal. The menu is eclectic. Most people will be able to find something they like, with lots of options for chicken, steak, seafood. They have great daily specials too. I tried the jambalaya and it was the perfect combination of spice, seafood and, strangely enough, orzo instead of rice. All the dishes were very flavorful! We also spent some time at the bar and my colleagues assured me that the beers were great but I stuck with a few mojitos. The bartender did a nice job on these too. Overall impression: If you're in Frederick and looking for a place to experience a tasty dinner or casual evening out, this place is definitely worth a try!
(4)
Jess E.
Brewer's Alley is always a solid choice. I've never had a bad meal or bad service here. The pizza is delicious, and although they don't do half-and-half with toppings, they are otherwise very accommodating. I also love their pretzel appetizer. Beer selection is great too, definitely a good place to check out what's on tap, as you would hope with a name like Brewer's Alley!
(4)
Anthony I.
Sadly, i did not drink the beer here, i was prepping for a big meal later on that evening, however the oysters were fantastic, some of the largest I have ever had. I will soon be back to imbibe on what I have heard called some of the best locally brewed beer anywhere. The salads were also great, fresh, delicious and just the right size, but man the oysters were spectacular, literally the size of softballs!
(4)
Leah O.
After a ghost tour of Frederick, my friend and I headed to Brewers Alley for a beer and live music. Neither disappointed. We didn't actually eat here, but sat outside in the beer garden area. They had an excellent band (I can't remember the name) There was plenty of room for sitting and/or standing and dancing. They have a large selection of brews to choose from, as they brew their own beer. If I was up in Frederick again, I would be sure to hit up Brewers Alley for more beer and to try their food selection.
(5)
Sheryl V.
My husband enjoyed the beer - we both enjoyed the food. He had fish & chips and I had black bean burger. Enjoyed the atmosphere and the waitstaff - this was New Year's Eve for lunch and it was busy - the food came out very quickly. We would go back again.
(4)
Julaine N.
Brewer's (as the name would suggest) makes their own beer. They have great half-priced happy hour specials on Mondays and Tuesdays. I would suggest tasting a beer or asking your bartender/waitress for a suggestion. They have a good IPA and I love the summer seasonal blueberry beer. If you are looking for something to eat at the bar, they also have great brick oven pizzas. The rest of the food is alright, but nothing spectacular. I usually just get their house salad with champagne dressing and goat cheese fritters. Simple but tasty...a bit over-priced for a salad. Steer clear of the salmon dishes...I am not sure about their seafood supplier. I have had too many fish dishes that were a little too fishy. :/ Overall, come for a beer, pizza, or salad; enjoy the outdoor patio (but only if you are eating, unfortunately); but try another restaurant if you are looking for a fancy dinner.
(3)
Mark R.
Great place to grab a home-brewed beer and grab a great meal! Best of all, the prices here are great for the value / quality. The first thing you notice are the huge beer vats... and let me ensure you that the beer in them is delicious! Always a good selection and great bar service. The huge t.v. in the bar makes it a nice place to watch a game. The food is really good. Wide variety and large selection. I feel like they need to limit some of the menu. its a bit too much. Its a great place to bring a large group of people. From time to time they have special events and tasting dinners. I went to one tasting that was a pairing of 5 courses with beer. Really fun and a good value. I think you can get on the list on their website. Overall, its a good place to grab a great lunch or dinner.
(4)
Chrys H.
Good beer, solid food, good service. We're glad we found it.
(4)
Joel S.
This restaurant is just OK. I was not impressed by the food and the ambiance is not what you see from the street (we ate in the back room).
(3)
Abby B.
We visited on a mid week night and got right in, had a very nice experience except for the portion/pricing of the entree my husband and I shared. We ordered from under "big plates" section of the menu and got the surf and turf which was $31. When the waiter brought out our shared meal, we each ate our portion in about 6 bites, it really was sad...:( the crab cake portions was the size of a half dollar and the steak was slightly bigger. we each got 4 tiny broccoli florets and a few kernals of corn. So not worth $31!!
(3)
Glen M.
Decent beermenu, worth exploring more on subsequent visits. I had their hefe weizen -- very good -- and a "cordon blue burger" for lunch -- not as well-executed as it could have been.
(3)
talia r.
*This is a review mostly from the boy, but I co-sign on what will be written.* Sit at the bar or grab a seat outside and enjoy one of 9 wonderfully brewed choices ready for drinking (love the oatmeal stout and belgium whit). Get a sampler of all or if your group decides for one and wants more than just a pint get the Brewtenders delivered to your table (for 6 pints at $19 you are getting one hell of a deal). Don't feel like staying, grab a growler of your favorite choice and take it on the road. With a single $15 deposit, it is yours to keep and either return for money back or fill it up again for round 2. Let me rewind a bit. Brewer's Alley is housed in, yes an alley (kinda), a beautiful historic building that once was the City Hall and before that the Rhode Island House. For all of your classy party needs, there is a 2nd floor banquet room. Food comes good portioned and nice price. It may be a brewery, but it definitely serves like an upscale pub grub. After a filling lunch we decided on a light dinner and split the Maryland style crab soup and thai chicken salad. Soup hit the spot with the large chunks of crab, corn and green beans floating in its tasteful broth. The salad tasted fresh and light., tons of chicken and a nice spice in the dressing. All ingredients, produce and meats, come locally and it could be my imagination but it makes it taste that much better. If you want a deal, this is your place: Monday: Stimulus Package: Buy 1 big plate and get a starred food item or daily special of equal or lesser value for free. Wednesday: 8pm-close $2 drafts (when drafts are about $3.50, it isn't too big of a deal, but saving that $1.50 just means another beer). 9pm, free cajun buffet. Thursday: 1 1/4 lb whole Maine Loberster or Grilled 10oz. New York Strip Steak for $13.95 or $25.95 for both. You better believe I am hauling my ass here on a Thursday. To sum it all up in the boy's words: Top notch service, great location, beer prices fantastic, food was good (but we will see how the rest of the menu goes after more visits) loved the micro-brew choices. What else do you need to have? It is a micro-brew!
(5)
Andy J.
Beer wasn't great but it wasn't bad either. You can't beat the happy hour price of $2.52 a pint. I only drank, I have no idea about the food.
(3)
Rachael H.
great food - for a better atmosphere sit in the bar or patio area - the dining area is a little like a retirement cafeteria - but the bar and patio area area were great!
(4)
Larry G.
Interesting little "Irish pub" that a friend decided for us to meet for lunch. It is bright and roomy...despite the fact that it was pouring hard outside. So, that's a plus! My friend ordered some eggplant sandwich. I ordered the baked ziti. As soon as I had my first taste, I knew I'd be spending quality time in the bathroom. It was like eating mac n' cheese with like 4 times as cheesy. Whoo...a bit too much. Plus, diced tomatoes on top. Ewww! It was definitely not like the baked ziti at Sbarro's. The wait service was friendly and prompt. So, I'll give them credit for that. The next time I come here...I'll try their burgers.
(3)
Elise O.
i really should have tried the beer here but sadly did not. instead i had a long island iced tea which i must say was expertly mixed and tasted great. the fried pickles were delish. I had the crab cake platter and was dissappointed that i literally only received TWO pieces of asparagus on my plate. that was the reason i picked the platter over the sandwich was for the asparagus. so it was a dissappointing portion for $19. our waitress wasn't bad but rather apathetic. she seemed like she had a long day and was kind of over it. overall, just ok! not great.
(3)
Laura J.
Had the beer sampler and enjoyed all the different beers. It was Cinco de Mayo, and they had a special menu which we ordered from. I had a pasta dish that used Italian techniques and ingredients that used chorizo (spicy Mexican sausage) and it was excellent.
(4)
Jess R.
Had a great lunch, I agree with Amy T, they do a great twist on normal faire. Such as a BLTC - BTL with PepperJack cheese...was great. Had the soup of the day - Sweet potato and apple bisque - unique flavor with a slight sweet after taste. Nice meal - would definitely recommend.
(4)
James V.
Great pizza, beer, and service. A really charming restaurant in the center of historic Frederick. My whole family love this place. The Pizza was really good and the home made beer made the night extra special...
(5)
Jessie H.
Great food, horrible waitress. A group of 4 of us headed here, after touring Flying Dog Brewery. I had the california chicken sandwich, which was delicious. My husband enjoyed the burger. The table shared the nacho - with the chili on the side (awesome!) Really enjoyed the banana peppers. I had asked for pepper jack cheese & my husband asked for bacon. Neither sandwich came with them, which is no big deal. We just wanted to tell the waitress so we were not charged. She pretty much made fun us being worried about "$1.50". And instead of apologizing, she complained how she was going to have to have her manager take it off the bill. Still at this point, we were still happy to tip her at least 20%. She was quite annoying and fake, but whatever. Then the check came. The bill was about $80, and we asked her to split the check evenly between the two couples. After she ran the cards, she returned them to us. Between our two checks she ended up charging us an additional $12 - how does that happen? Very shady. Again, we brought it to her attention, and she really didn't care, and again acted annoyed. At that point the whole table shut down and had enough. We would return again, but would specifically request not to have this waitress. I probably would have ranked this 4 stars otherwise. Needless to say, we were not very generous on the tip.
(2)
Kevin W.
This place has pretty good food regardless of what you are looking for. I was in Frederick for business and ended up at this place a couple times. Great food and service.
(4)
Gabrielle B.
The bar was great but the food was less-than-average. We started with the nachos as an appetizer. They seemed microwaved and were soggy. My friend got the salmon entree and it was way too salty. Her husband got the pizza and although the crust was good, the cheese seemed to have an added layer of salt. My fiancee got the ribs and was surprised how few ribs he got for the price. I got the chicken satay with rice and vegetables and it was really greasy. It wasn't cheap and it wasn't good.
(2)
Allison K.
The Duck pizza was otherworldly. I could have had 2 larges myself I think. I liked the beer they poured for us and the sweet-potato fries?!! So good, I almost made myself sick downing the whole basket. :P The ambiance leaves a little to be desired...at least in some of the rooms. We sat in the side dining room which was a little quiet and the round tables leave everyone staring at one another awkwardly. Square tables, some low tunes and dimmer lighting would do wonders for this room. The bar area seemed hopping with a more college/sports bar flare to it. Very fun and a bit loud if you're looking for a mellower evening.
(4)
Sarah L.
Stopped here on a whim on our first visit to Frederick. Great site in the historic City Hall in walkable and trendy downtown, where the citizens of Frederick forked over their ransom to keep the Rebels from burning the place to the ground. Neat building, wonderfully restored, cool decorations. Beer was good- husband had Maibock, with which he was very impressed, I had oatmeal stout, which was not out-of-the-ordinary, but was really solid and tasty. Had a crab dip appetizer, chips were not homemade, but dip was very good with big crab pieces. Hubby had roast beef sandwich, piled high with real roast beef, also came with soup, also good. I had new menu item upon waiter recommendation - CA Chicken - very good, whole grain local bread, fresh avocados and chicken breast. Very good overall, extremely friendly service and a very good welcome to a very neat historic city. Recommend stopping in!
(4)
Tiffany J.
They get two stars instead of one because I was here twice. The first night I went for a beer and the service was horrible. The bartender was rude and so was the waitress who refused to let us sit on the patio, even though there were other people out there drinking. *shrug* Don't know. The second night was alright - sat down for dinner. The food was so-so, nothing amazing, the beer was good and the service wasn't horrible, just sub-par.
(2)
Nazzarena L.
Casual athmosphere, this comfy microbrew is a relatively popular family locale. I have been here for lab lunches, not disliked it, so I brought my friends over after they moved me, and dined on the patio with another friend from London who's my detector for when my european upbringing are obfuscated by the habits aquired in all these american years. So test passed. Of course I never have the pizza, but why should I. Best to stick to dignitous burger and ribs, or Thursday lobster.
(3)
Melanie F.
Black bean burger is good. Beer is very good. Nachos - skip (taste good but very over priced)
(4)
Lori M.
My husband and I went here on a Thursday night mainly because of Lobster Night (I mean, really, I couldn't cook a lobster dinner at home for the price of $13.95). We were seated immediately, after being asked if we wanted to sit outside or inside. Since it was hot out, we chose inside, but many people were seated on the patio. To enter the dining room, you have to go through the bar. Then, when you arrive at the dining room, the first thing you notice is the high noise level, even though the room was only half full and there was no music playing. The accoustics must be terrible in there. We were seated at a small table in the far corner of the room. When they placed us there, I thought, "well, at least it may be quieter here, but it really wasn't. The waitress immediately came and took our drink orders, and since we knew we wanted the specials, she took those orders, too. I ordered the lobster special--1 1/4 pound lobster with a ceasar salad and fries, and my husband, who doesn't like fooling with the work of eating a lobster, ordered the 10 oz. steak, again with ceasar salad and fries...no choices of salad or sides, no substitutions. After a short wait, the beverages arrived...I had just ordered water, but my husband got one of the wheat beers that they brew there. He said it was good, but not the best he had ever had. The price was reasonable, but also kind of odd...$3.67 or $3.62--an odd amount--what's up with that? Shortly after the beverages arrived, a second server delivered the ceasar salads--good and cheesy with a few croutons and a hint of garlic (not overpowering as someone else said in one of the reviews). The server came back and I asked if bread was included with the meal and I got a flat answer, "No", not, "It doesn't come with the specials" or "It's an extra charge", just, "No" and he left. When we were leaving later, I noticed several tables did have bread baskets, so I had to assume that bread did not come with the special. I could understand this if we had ordered a sandwich, but I would have thought bread would have been served with a steak or lobster dinner. After we finished the salad, there was virtually no wait until the entrees arrived. My husband said his steak was tender and flavorful and cooked just as he had ordered and it looked huge! And my lobster was wonderful! Both entrees were served with shoestring fries that were very good, crispy and with just the right amount of salt, but, while serving the fries on the same plate as the steak was fine, they quickly got soggy in the liquid of the lobster juice as I opened the lobster. Seems like serving them on a small seperate plate would be a simple solution. Although they actually tasted good soaked in the juice of the lobster, not everyone would like that, and the diner should have the choice to keep them dry if they want to...such a simple solution, too. The entree also included a rather tasteless bit of coleslaw in a small cup--more of a garnish than a side. The lobster and steak, though, I can't say enough good about...very tasty, and VERY reasonable price. Since that was the main thing I came for, I'll overlook the other flaws. The waitress was attentive, checking serveral times to see if everything was okay, and to get a refill of the beer, and the server also checked on us, but was a little too eager to clear the table...asking if I was done with the discard plate (they gave you a seperate plate to put the shell on as you worked your way through the lobster)...I was only halfway through the meal...not sure where he thought I would put the rest of the shell if he took the plate. All in all, the meal was wonderful, but it would have been nice to have some bread to soak up the lobster juices, and to have the seperate plate for the fries. Will definately return and hope they take note of the suggestions!
(4)
Rade M.
Great beer selection. I had a delicious India pale ale. Didn't try the food, but the menu had some good looking options. Will be back for the food.
(4)
Adri Q.
Great beer, including their India pale ale that recently won silver at an international brewing competition, and food. Had the sweet potato fries, which were awesome, and the roasted vegetable salad with DELICIOUS goat cheese fritters.
(4)
Seth R.
Have to say the Thursday Special of a 10 oz New York strip paired with a full 1 &1/4 pound lobster for $25 is about the best deal I have ever heard of! The steak was excellent-perfectly cooked and tender. The lobster was extremely tasty and much larger than I had envisioned. You can bet that I will be returning on a Thursday for the special!
(4)
Rebecca S.
Went out for dinner with my husband's work colleagues here and everyone enjoyed themselves. There were several appetizers ordered, all were yummy- especially the calamari. My husband and I are beer snobs and were pleased with our beers. I had the porter which was quite nice. They had whole steamed lobsters for only $13 that evening on special and everyone but me got them. I tasted a claw and it was cooked well- not rubbery, just right. I ordered the house-made sausage dish with au gratin taters and sauteed apples and onions. It was extremely gnosh-tastic (ie, tasty to the Nth power)- the flavors were rich, complex and well-balanced and everything was cooked perfectly. I'm sure my hubbie and I will end up at this place again if we ever leave the house under our own auspices.
(4)
Casey K.
Pretty bad night here. I think if you are a big beer enthusiast who needs a spot to meet up with friends, then this is the place for you. However, if you are like myself that was out for dinner with the fam, then you are out of luck with quality of food. We started with the meat and cheese platter, which was really a pitiful site. It was served on a plate. Not on a carving board or a cool piece of slate that I have seen elsewhere. The components were just sort of thrown on the plate with no distinction in which was which. The apple slices were pithy and lifeless, there was no snap or sweetness to merge with the other savory ingredients and there were only two slices, seemed kind of sparse for a meat and cheese "platter". There was some baguette slices which were burnt and there were also only three pieces. All and all, this was a really bad starter and I would not recommend. I had the cedar plank salmon which was also not good. The salmon was cooked ok and just as I requested but the components paired with it were odd. The tomato relish ended up being like a marinara sauce, which in no way was good complimented or took of from the salmon, it was just odd. I was expecting so much from the tomato relish, however, it fell flat for me. The russet potatoes were dry and tough, one of the pieces were actually too hard for me to chew, which I inconspicuously deposited into my napkin. Just bad bad bad, and definite one to skip. The best thing on the table I tasted and the thing I wished I had ordered was the plantain mahi. The fish was light and tender while the avocado mashed potatoes had a wonderful flavor. I would highly recommend this dish and if I ever find myself here again, that is my go to. I had a bite of the muffuletta burger which was forgettable and in noway like a muffuletta, but more a burger they just put a large chunk of ham on. There was no finesse in flavors, and I was honestly very let down by this night at brewers alley. Can't say I will return.
(2)
Joshua P.
Food was great, had bean burger and shared a margherita pizza. Co-workers I went with are big beer finatics and they kept talking about how good it's was! I would definitely return.
(5)
Travis F.
I love this place. Food is excelled, service is fast. Thursday's are great for a cheap lobster dinner. We also had a friends birthday here and they were great for providing us a with a large table for the group.
(4)
Andrew M.
Found this place just by looking on the map. At first it seemed great, but then the wait was long and the waiter took forever getting our drinks. There is room for improvement on the service. As for the food, it was really good. Had the Maryland crab dip and the BBQ chicken for dinner. Well proportioned and priced. I can't really complain there. But I just didn't think it deserved more stars. We got the wrong check which was for the other table. And my friend almost paid it. The beer was great, so if your looking for pub food and beer. This isn't a bad place. Give it a try
(3)
Shona G.
I have eaten at Brewer's Alley a few times and the food is always pretty good. Tonight we made the mistake of sitting on the patio where the band was playing. Let me say this, the band was good, I would have enjoyed the music if I could have actually seen the band. We arrived early to ensure that we would get a table, unfortunately once the band started playing people began crowding in and standing in front of our table so that their butts were right in our face, and I mean that is all we could see.......butts everywhere (see butt photo, you'll know which one). This large group of people appeared to be friends and family of the band as they seemed to know each other. We had a meal and were attempting to finish our dessert in spite of the butts, when they began setting their drinks and empty glasses on our table!! At one point my husband moved his chair to the other side of the table to get away from the butts, but they just followed him there too. Not only were these people rudely obstructing our view but there was so many of them that the wait staff had to maneuver around them which also affected the service that paying customers like ourselves received. I might add that they were not eating, just drinking and leaving their glasses with us. My husband is typically a very laid back and easy going guy, but he had his fill. When he went in to speak to the manager he was told that they can't control the situation, he also said that the band called this crowd to come hear them. That is ridiculous! The patio is fenced off and when it is full they should begin a wait list like most other establishments would. Standing around the outer perimeter would be perfectly acceptable but these people were everywhere, this is a reataurant, people were trying to eat. When it was brought to their attention by one server, some of them moved over while more just filed into their places. This was the rudest group of people I have ever encountered and the substandard manner in which the restaurant handled the situation only compounded the problem. It turned out to be a very disappointing evening.
(1)
Nicole W.
Just had lunch there, the service was excellent but the fish and chips were a bit greasy. The calamari was very good though. I would go back but get the pizza next time.
(4)
Sara B.
Pretty good food, last time I went I ordered a turkey burger and it was really tasty! A number of others at my table ordered crab cakes and loved them. Good beer selection. Only complaint would be to have more attentive waitstaff.
(4)
Eddie Y.
The best crab dip ever! Nice seating areas, staff is very nice and friendly. The food is great. Ill be back.
(4)
Kenzie F.
Several years ago, I could rave about the food here. Now, not so much. If you're here for the bar, you're in the right place. If you're just going in for food, I would recommend going elsewhere downtown. I have tried 3 times to change my mind about the food. I had really talked this place up to friends, so after visiting it was pretty uncomfortable when the food was obviously unimpressive. Later, I went with friends that had been before and they had the same thought as I did: "this place used to be so good". So, sadly I probably won't try again with this place. If you're there to just enjoy a few drinks with friends, go for it. Otherwise...
(2)
Kevin H.
The beer, food and service was good. We decided to come back the next night with a larger group. The restaurant advised reservations for groups of six or more, so we phoned to make a reservation for 6:45 PM on a Saturday evening. We were told to just come on in; no reservation was necessary. When we arrived, however, we were told that we should have made a reservation, as there would be a long wait. We explained that we had tried to do just that but had not been allowed to, but that did no good. We have now been waiting for half an hour... I strongly recommend that you try to make a reservation, and if you are told it is not necessary, go to another restaurant.
(2)
Joey B.
This is a wonderful building!!! and i have wonderful memories coming here years ago! The food is not very good and that's kinda sad since its an all American Brewery. You want good food with your beer.. That's just food 101.. Nothing i have ordered here ever came out fresh. you will get the Trots from eating here. lol The Service is a hit or miss here. most of the time the waiters and waitresses are nice but other times they have been darn rude. If you are a beer drinker and love to socialize at night and weekends at watch sports, then this is the place for you! The atmosphere is very nice!!!
(3)
Anna N.
On a trip home from DC we asked Siri the best places to eat near by. Lucky for us this place came up. We got seated right away and were starving! The service was good, but we were so pleasantly surprised with the food. The fired pickles were a great way to start our meal then I got the avocado turkey burger which was HUGE and messy but delicious! My boyfriend also really enjoyed his pizza. We didn't partake in any of the beer since we were traveling so I don't have input on that. If we are ever in the area again I know we will be stopping by here!
(4)
Evey G.
We had a wonderful time at Brewer's Alley, twice! We attended a rehearsal dinner in one of their upstairs rooms which was just very well handled and lovely. We also returned the next day for a regular lunch in the main dining room and had a great experience. The food is delicious, and while I didn't have any of their beer I heard great things about the selection. The restaurant is really cute and convenient. Beautifully decorated, charming, easy to access, and with a parking garage just behind it. We didn't find the prices overwhelming or inappropriate, and all of the staff we encountered during both the rehearsal dinner and the lunch were outstanding. If we are back in Frederick we would absolutely recommend this restaurant and return ourselves.
(4)
Susie-q C.
This restaurant is easily one of my favorites. Their beer, their food, the location, service. My favorite dish here is the black bean burger, soooo delicious! They have a great variety of dishes from seafood, to pizzas, burgers, salads. Will be visiting this place for as long as I'm downtown Frederick!
(5)
James H.
Food and drink were great on first visit. Based on second visit, staff training and reservation policy is atrocious and irresponsible for an establishment of purportedly high caliber. We called at 6:15 pm to make a dinner reservation for a party of 6 adults plus a 3 year old child. We were told that fitting in such a party at 6:45 pm would not require a reservation and were not allowed to make one. An advance party arrived at 6:40 pm to claim the table, and was told the wait time would be 25-30 minutes. At 7:00 pm the rest of the party had arrived and the group was told the wait time would still be 30-35 minutes despite the time that had passed. The manager was not able to determine which member of staff lied to customers about the option to make a reservation and maintained that staff were trained despite this evidence to the contrary.
(1)
Lorena B.
Do not go to the bar at Brewer's Alley if you're in a time crunch. Service is slow. I've been here twice, once on a late Saturday night when it was packed and on a Sunday evening when it was fairly busy. On both occasions the waitress was friendly but there were loooong wait times to get menus, order drinks, get refills, etc. As the name implies, they brew their own beers here. You can pick a flight of six (I think) to taste. The boo enjoyed that. Me, I liked my usual vodka soda but I also had a Bellini that was gross. I've had better ones in casinos. I've never eaten a meal here but the menu is extensive so it seems like a good choice if you're with a group. On my first visit, I had the brownie ice cream sundae. I'm not usually a vanilla ice cream fan but I remember the menu said it was either homemade or locally made and it was pretty damn good. The crab dip I had during the more recent visit was disappointing. The chips were warm Tostitos and the dip seemed to be cream cheese with one piece of crab meat. However, it came with a spicy salsa that was delicious and should be an app on it's own.
(3)
Chason J.
Awesome place with a cool vibe. The old walls mixed with a new bar and TV's make it a chill place to grab a brew. The pizza is killer. I definitely recommend going here.
(4)
Anonymous A.
First time here for lunch and I enjoyed the food and service. But the restaurant just doesn't feel clean. I was seated in the north room and the carpet was filthy, the chair upholstery stained and the wooden tables have seen better days. Maybe table cloths or placemats would help but the dust on the table legs and overall grimy look are inexcusable. The waitress was very kind and efficient and my food tasted delicious but they just need to clean the place up. There was even a peculiar odor when I first entered but luckily it was dissipated by the ceiling fans.
(3)
Ashly L.
The beer is pretty good, but their food leaves a lot to be desired. Had the French Dip special today. The roast beef was tasty, but there were WAY too many balsamic onions on the dish. Also, the onions were so tart, I had to remove them from the sandwich. The other thing I noticed was my beer glass was sticky. I looked and it had syrup stuck on the bottom. I'll pop in for a beer every now and then, but other than that I think I'd pass.
(2)
Suzanne K.
This restaurant, bar, brewery is awesome. From the old wood to the fun staff to the great food my family and I love it all. We regularly meet here on Fridays for happy hour, my husband and I used to come on Wednesday nights for their free buffet and happy hour beers (when we were young and did not have as much extra funds for nights out) and we love to come on Thursday for their Lobster night. The servers are fun, especially Alan (heeeeyyyy), all of them have their favorite items on the menu. All of their brews are delicious, I personally like the Nut Brown and Kolsch. For wine lovers they have a great selection both by the glass and the bottle and if you want a mixed drink go for it the bartenders are amazing. For foods, I recommend the fried pickles or calamaris, and oysters when they are in season, try out the Mac'n'cheese it's amazing, get the ham trust me. The pizzas are great and they are wood fired which makes them just so much better. OOOHHHH and if you see Apple Pie as the dessert...GET IT! A shout out to the banquet and special occasion staff who guided me through the process of hosting my sisters Bridal Shower upstairs. Jackie was fantastic and I recommend their party rooms for anything you need. They can wire in your music work with you on how best to layout the room and the food is the same deliciousness from the restaurant downstairs. They can even make a cake for your party! Go here, relax and enjoy the afternoon or evening with friends.
(5)
Meagan G.
Was here last week for dinner with a friend. While the service was a little slow, the food was excellent. We both got drinks from the bar, him a flight of different beers and I a girly drink. The food was excellent and very reasonable in price, good portion sizes for the price and a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
(4)
Rachel L.
pretty good beers, i really enjoyed the burger and the nachos.
(4)
David F.
Beer was excellent they had the oh my gourd on tap barrel aged, got he jumbo lump crap, usually don't eat seafood at all and OMG that shit was amazing, ou have to get it.... HAVE TO!
(4)
Steven B.
Visiting here was mandatory as my last name is Brewer! I whipped in for a late lunch, showed my ID to the bartender, and said that considering my last name, everything should be free. Sadly she wouldn't go for it. Not even a free brew. Oh well. The atmosphere is great. It's a very old building that was once an opera house among other things. It has a history a mile long and if you like old restored buildings, as I do, you'll love it! I've been to dozens of breweries and the beers here were A-OK. They were nothing special but just fine. Prices were competitive. I ordered the BLACKENED BURGER ($12). It was one-half pound of Lean Hereford Beef with Blackened Seasoning, Pepper-Jack Cheese, LTO and Horseradish Cream on a Toasted Potato Knot Roll. It came with shoestring fries and it was tasty and A-OK. My bartender was friendly and customer service was A-OK. Are you sensing a theme here? I had a decent meal with decent brews but nothing made me go wow. For me, this was a typical three star experience.
(3)
Cliff W.
Not often, but sometimes, I venture outside the beltway. When it does happen, it's usually for something epic. No, we didn't leave the sweet comforting confines of urban civilization for this establishment, but instead for a waterfall in Thurmont MD. Afterwards though we found ourselves to be famished and needed to get some grub. I had heard about Brewer's Alley in past conversations about this place having the best burger. That's a tall claim, especially when you make it to me, a guy who's trying his hardest to clog his arteries with nothing but the best burgers one can find. For those who haven't read my previous reviews, I'm pretty passionate about this quest. So when we were all tired and fresh off the trail, I thought that since I was in the area and hungry that today would be judgement day. For someone not from Frederick, I was actually somewhat excited about knowing this spot was downtown. It's on "Main St, USA" if you know what I mean. On a Saturday afternoon there was a band playing down the street on the sidewalk, there were people everywhere, all in all I loved this little slice of Americana that I found myself in. Brewer's Alley lives up to its name by being in an alley. There was patio seating to be had and if we were visiting in the evening we would have sat outside. However, being hot, we went inside and found plenty of open tables in the bar area. Many a local there were adorned in their finest Orioles attire while they watched the game on one of the many tvs the place had up. The service was a bit slow, but I was able to order a nut brown ale that was pretty tasty. Their pizza menu looked delicious, but I didn't stumble my way into this establishment for that. No, my sights were set on their burger. My friends ordered a pizza, a pulled pork sandwich, and a salad. Everyone was pleased with their meal, but no one was blown away. The burger, ordered medium, came and was a watered down version of what one could get at Central in DC. It was good, don't get me wrong, but I would never place it in the category of being the best. It could most certainly be the best in Frederick, I'm willing to say that, but the best ever? Nah. The fries that came with it were also the really thing stringy kind. I'm not a fan of those. I want some potato in the middle of the fry, and the little thing string fries there weren't my thing. One of the people I was with though liked them, so depending on your preference they could possibly be great. The meal in its entirety was generally cheap in terms of price, and I'd probably go back if I found myself hungry in Frederick again. However, there's no way I'd make a special trip out from the beltway into the wild lands of Maryland when there are much better restaurants locally. If I was a Frederick local though? It could possibly be a spot I'd frequent. Dems da breaks.
(3)
Shana C.
Met some clients for a business lunch and decided to refill my growler... from 2010. I didn't realize I hadn't cleaned it properly (they don't accept dirty growlers). I explained that I lived over 45 minutes away I really didn't want to drive all the way back to have it refilled next time. Shortly after the manager came to the table and instead of reprimanding me - he explained why they have the policy, how to clean it properly in the future, and offered to replace the growler with a new one at no charge. The excellent customer service did not stop there! Our waitress was very attentive (even during a busy lunch hour) and the food was great. I ordered the fish tacos, which had with delicious large pieces of fish, and french fries. The service and food were outstanding, if you haven't been here - you should go immediately.
(5)
A N.
I eat lunch here frequently.. and it is reliably good. However I went to a group dinner last evening.... worst.meal.ever. Everything was "from a box" from the pasta to the mashed potatoes ... (yes both in the same meal) with 2 meat dishes... no veggies short of a salad. The salt bread would have been ok.. if I was drinking beer... but I was not. I have eaten at "banquets " like this throughout the region, in places that are pretty darned bad. My expectations were for a good healthy and tasty meal from B.A. Instead it may have been the worst restaurant meal of my life...
(1)
Joseph F.
Speedy service, and good food. Fun, old timey atmosphere in the heart of a great city. Try the steak; it's excellent. So is their blueberry beer.
It was okay, really. But just okay. With so many options in the area, I think I would try a different one next time rather than go here again. Nothing stood out as being horrible, but nothing really stood out as being great either. I agree with the others -- the front door staff really wasn't that friendly. Neither was our waiter in the beginning, although he did warm up a bit later in the meal. If it was the only game in town, sure, I'd give it another go. But since it's not, if we return to Frederick, we'll try something else.
(3)
Mihai T.
My first burger at Brewer's Alley. One of the best I've ever had. Add a craft beer to that, awesome
(5)
Colleen B.
We were so glad to see Frederick was so dog friendly! This restaurant even had a dogie patio. That said we have come to the conclusion that the patio is where they send the bad waiters. The menu had pumpkin bisque as the soup of the day so we ordered it. Not only had they taken it off but they must have forgotten to tell our waitress. The runner tried to tell us that the beef soup he gave us was Pumpkin. Seriously? It has beans and chunks of beef! The waitress was nice enough to take the soup we sent back off our bill. Gee, thanks. The cold bean veggie burger was edible but the fries were outstanding! Tiny shoe string. YUM.
(3)
Michele W.
Gotta love a place that has their own brews! The waiters are also very knowledgeable about their offerings if you are indecisive. There is a good variety of food choices. The food is good and satisfying
(3)
Michelle A.
This restaurant seems to be a Frederick favorite, and (being brand new to the area) it was at the top of my list to try... Me, my two girlfriends and my daughter stopped in a little after 1pm on a Saturday. We got seated right away, and our waitress was prompt, friendly and helpful. This is a brewery, so we stuck with things that have natural associations with beer. We started with fried calamari (beer battered) and were pleasantly surprised to find two sauces (cocktail and an aioli) and hand-cut calamari rings. The batter was crisp and light and flavorful... overall, it was a really good version of a dish that can be a let-down when it's not done right. Then I got a burger with blue cheese. It was a better than average burger, with a healthy amt of cheese, and a nice large fresh bun. It also came with onion straws, lettuce and tomato. I happen to like thick burgers, so for me this was great. My friends tried a burger and also liked it, and then got the pulled pork sandwich as well, which looked a little wet (coming from Richmond, I know it's preferable to put your own BBQ sauce on pulled pork, but hey, when in Rome...) but was otherwise reported to be delicious. Also, as a curveball, we ordered the braise kale. It was braised with bacon, so really- we had to try it. And it was good, if a little greasy. The bacon wasn't crisp, which I think is the correct way to serve this dish, but overall, the bacon lent a nice salty flavor to otherwise bland kale, and the kale was cooked and tender but not overcooked or mushy... Bonus points for being kind and accommodating to my 1 year old, and this place is a no-brainer for when I need to get out of the house for a casual dinner. The prices, while they may be high for some items as other reviewers noted, seemed reasonable for the foods we ordered.
(5)
Casey J.
I have dined here several times and have been thoroughly impressed with not only the menu but the service as well. Whether it be the steak or a seafood entree I have been delighted with the food. Also I absolutely love that they have an outdoor area where you can dine and bring your dog with you, actually I can say that the whole town of Fredrick is very dog friendly as far as the businesses are concerned. Anyways you can bet I'll be eating here again!
(5)
Corey W.
Overall, this place is great. I've only been in the bar area to eat, and I really like it. We had the Oatmeal Stout and it's my wife's favorite beer (so we had lots of it). Pizza is fantastic; we also had some raw oysters and the jalapeño pretzel - both really good. Nice mixture of young and old people; staff is on point and plenty of TVs in the at area if you want to do some sports watching. It's a Fredrick staple, so you gotta go.
(4)
Kem W.
It's always hard to judge a restaurant's quality with lunch. Any restaurant that can't make a sandwich must be really pathetic. So it is with this place. I was there for lunch and had a nice roast beef sandwich, thick-sliced, piled high with a nice cheddar. We also had a chicken salad sandwich. That was deemed too processed. The chicken could have been chunkier. Cole slaw was good as were the fries. I had a hefeweizen that was fine. The dining room we were in looked a tad better than a Bob's Big Boy but the bar area looked OK. But the service was friendly and attentive. Overall I can't complain but it was only lunch.
(3)
Becca R.
Stopped in for lunch and some brews the other day while visiting downtown Frederick. When we looked up the menu we couldn't pass up our three favorite things: local microbrews, fried pickles, and handmade spicy black bean burgers. There was a lot of beer to choose from, including several seasonal. The waitress brought out a taste to help us make our decision. I tried the Opera IPA and Kolsch, both were crisp and refreshing. The Opera had a really interesting taste, definitely recommended. Fried pickles were just the right amount, four spears coated in breadcrumbs which made it lighter and crunchy. Also avoided creating the heat pocket that burns the roof of your mouth off like battered fired pickle spears. The black bean burgers were great. Huge patty, held together well for a handmade patty, and packing a nice amount of heat. Good guacamole hidden under the patty. Only thing that could improve it would be top it with pico instead of a tomato slice.
(4)
David J.
Met some old friends here, so catching up with each other was priority, not the food. Good thing, because the food was only average and certainly not as good as I remembered from a few years back. Wife had the fish tacos- "OK" and the remainder had burgers, mine undercooked slightly. Beer was good, but I haven't met too many beers I didn't like. Service on a busy Saturday night was OK, but we were stuck at a table in a corner that was not level. Tip to hostesses: if you move tables around, check and use coasters to level the table before you seat guests. Speaking of furniture, at these prices I would think they could afford some new. The dining room is starting to look like a second-hand shop. Overall 2.5 stars, and there are better choices in Frederick.
(3)
Alexander A.
Nice bar. Mediocre food. At least in my experience off their daily special menu. Also, I would ask for a swig of their specialty beers if you go that direction. Not very good IMO. I'll definitely return for the atmosphere (and drink bottled beer).
(3)
Elaine M.
Everything about Brewer's Alley was great! We got a beer (Kolsch - great, a little like Bud Light but more flavorful) at the bar while waiting for a table - only about a 15 minute wait for a Saturday night. We started with Fried Pickle Spears which were the best fried pickles I've had! Very crispy, because of Panko - didn't fall apart. Also had Crab Dip, which was creamy and not too crabby. Apple Goat Cheese pizza was da bomb. Mac And Cheese side was great. Their French fries are always crispy and delightful - shoestring style. Our server was Jeremy and he was SO FUN and very attentive. He really made our night. Overall, everything was amazing, all the way down to the busser, who was also superb. Will definitely come back!!!
(5)
Allison L.
A decent restaurant in a good location. I had the BBQ chicken pizza, which was fine. My fiance had the Ludicrous burger, which is a bacon burger stuffed between two grilled cheese sandwiches. About a gazillion grams of fat, but probably also the best entree out of the 4 ordered. Service was nice, but slow. Prices are reasonable/inexpensive. Not a bad experience, just not memorable enough to hurry back.
(3)
Jade M.
While visiting friends this past weekend in Frederick they took us to Brewer's Alley which is located right in the heart of downtown. The restaurant/bar was full of college students and families enjoying a Friday night meal. We arrived a little after 8pm and were seated right away. We started with the Southern Fried Pickles (cajun battered pickle spears) served with Ranch. Yum! We also sampled the Kolsch beer- very crisp and refreshing taste! For our main entrees, my friends and I ordered the Fish Tacos, the Alley Burger (served with fries and crispy tobacco onions), the Spanish Pizza (chorizo, roasted red peppers, red onions and ricotta), and the Pizza Italiano (Italian sausage, pepperoni, red onions, banana and green peppers and mozzarella). Everything was affordably priced and had good flavors. This is a good place to enjoy a meal with friends.
(3)
Brian T.
Very cool place with an interesting menu and very good beer list. Prices are reasonable and the service was outstanding.
(5)
Benny R.
We arrived with a group of 6 adults and two kids. Then we waited outside for a half hour with plenty of open tables next to each other that they refused to push together. We asked the manager about the tables and she curtly responded "oh, we don't move tables". I'm pretty ecstatic we ended up leaving. I didn't want to eat here anyway. I've been here four times over the last ten years and each time the food was garbage. Now that my family has another reason not to go, hopefully I won't have to ever come back. And now that I have a yelp account I can give this hole the review they deserve.
(1)
Jason C.
Good place to stop in and grab a beer and watch a game. The food there is also pretty good as well. The only issue which is not there fault is its always way to crowded at night.
(4)
Bran G.
We were excited for this place in downtown Frederick but honestly were not impressed with the beer, service, or lay out. We sat out back which had no character to it. Waitress was knowledgeable but snoody. It started to rain so we went inside, got attitude about it. I guess we should have just gotten soaked? The inside seemed crammed with tables nearly in walkways. Beers were only so-so. Sighhhhh
(2)
vanessa g.
I was a big fan of the beer selection, my favorite was the oatmeal stout and the nut brown ale, very delicious. I ordered a Margherita pizza and it tasted pretty average, service at the bar was average and the prices were good. Overall good experience, would love to purchase a growler soon.
(3)
Mike M.
Very good beer. Food is OK, not out of this world. Several TV's in the bar area. Fun crowd on a Sunday afternoon, surprisingly packed, especially for mid afternoon. Go for the beer! And get a growler, you can take the beer home with you.
(4)
Susan W.
The first brewery/restaurant is the area, it is still creating lovely beers in a fun, old town atmosphere. The food is mostly affordable and good. Owned by the same folks who own Isabella's and Ayse, you will find that yummy calamari on this menu, too. Bring some friends who appreciate good beer and order the tabletop beer dispenser. It's a fun twist and a way to get around the sometimes long wait in getting a refill during their busy times.
(4)
Daniella H.
After a looooong day of driving north to raft the Upper Yough, by the time we got off the river and arrived at the restaurant we were starving. We=a group of 8 of us. We were initially seated outside where it took at least 10 minutes to be greeted by our waitress and was so loud that we couldn't even hear each other due to the music. Now, the music on any other night were have been great; however, we just wanted to eat, unwind, and relax at this point. We were immediately seated inside and had a fabulous, funny, much more attentive waiter. I had the mozzarella, roasted red pepper, pesto panini, which was flavorful but a little on the greasier side. We were served quickly and all in all ended quite satisfied. Our favorite part about this place was the locally brewed beers. Mmmmmm, this place makes 'em well and they're reasonable priced. I'd definitely visit again for beer and bar food!
(3)
Dawn B.
Can I give 3 1/2 for this one? The food was average, but the service was amazing. The waitress was kind enough to take my credit card not once, but twice so I could surprise my boyfriend's parents by paying for dinner. She was subtle in her motions and even did an under the table pass. The restaurant food was reasonably priced and the soup was a nice touch as a side to the meal. Wish they would have laid off the salt though... it was a little bit over done. As for my main dish, the crab cake was well cooked, but the bread it was served in was tasteless and was not well paired with the delicious crab cake.
(4)
Rob R.
Never disappointed by the Margherita pizza, cooked in their fantastic pizza oven and large enough that I guaranteed to have seconds the next day.
(5)
George O.
Be Aware: they do not fill growlers from other brewers here. The growlers they sell are the expensive kind with aluminum handles ($15) as opposed to the common cider jugs ($2).
(1)
Vik S.
What every decent brewery should have, this place has it. Choice of beer suited to every palate, food suited to every palate, friendly servers and decent prices. One of my favorite places to stop over whenever I'm in the area. A definite 4 star due to one reason only, their beer needs more flavor compared to other microbreweries but, don't let that deter you from this 'hole in the wall' of an awesome place!
(4)
Lauren T.
Menu has a nice variety, something for everyone. Amazing pizza w pesto, goat cheese, and balsamic! Normal pizzas too. Great beer of course. Outdoor, indoor seating, and a large bar area too.
(5)
Jason H.
Give this place 3 stars because the beer was good. Went there with my family from out of town because I heard it was good. Got the burger, which was not cooked right and the fries were cold. Could not find our waiter so I ate the food as is. To top it off we sat outside on the patio and could smell nothing but the trash can next to our table. Did I mention the beer was good? May still give them another chance, but there are a lot of good places downtown.
(3)
Marlene B.
Good selection of beer at a good price. Loved the oatmeal stout! The fried pickles are to die for! Next time I will order my own fried pickles instead of sharing them! I gave 4 stars because I ordered a medium well burger and it came out medium rarek however, the waiter was great about taking it back to the kitchen to get it cooked more. A good restaurant overall.
(4)
Shruti M.
you really can't beat their happy hour beer prices. This is a typical local pub environment. You get good beer for a cheap price during happy hour (2.52/draft). While i do wish they had some happy hour appetizer specials, the beer prices make up for that. The service was great, our waitress was friendly and very attentive. we didn't have any of the entrees, but would recommend the jalapeno pretzel, the nachos, and the bacon wrapped jalapenos. Overall, I'd recommend this place for anyone who just wants to chill, enjoy some beers, and relax.
(4)
Karen S.
We came early on a Saturday night so we got a seat on the back patio (really just a converted alley space next to a parking garage) right away. We weren't shaded by the building so as the sun set, it really got in our eyes. The food was decent: I got the crab cake, which came with corn, mashed potatoes and I swapped out the asparagus for a squash medley. It was good, but there were so many bits of shell in my crab cake! I picked out five or six, and it's not a big crab cake to start with. My boyfriend got the pulled pork sandwich, which he enjoyed, and the shoestring fries are really good. He also had the beer sampler, which for $8 had generous portions. The beers were interesting-- he got a mix of their usual and seasonal ones, including a blueberry beer that tasted strongly of blueberry. It's right in downtown Frederick so you've got a great opportunity to walk around and see all the local shops before or after dinner.
(3)
Natalie B.
This place is my favorite place for bar food in Frederick. The appetizers are quite delicious and they have an interesting selection. The pizza fired up in their pizza oven are delicious! The service is good, if a bit slow. Also, you can bring your dog with you out on the patio in the warmer months. Great food, great beer, and they allow your best friend?! What's not to love?
(4)
Orlangela A.
She said..."Got the house salad and crab dip. The crab dip didn't look like it had any crab in it. It tasted more like cream cheese dip. Not good for $11. And it came with chips, like chips and salsa? Little confused about that...normally crab dip comes with a baguette or bread or pretzel. The house salad was not that good either, couple pieces of lettuce, onions and two tomatoes with watery ranch dressing. Probably wouldn't come back here to eat. I think people come here just for the bar." He said..."I got the southern fried pickles and house salad. The pickles said they come with a "ranch tomato aioli" I'll admit that the dipping sauce was good, but tomato aioli was absent. The pickles were legit and I would get them again, the salad had very basic items. I assume it is hard to deep fry pickles cut length wise but the chef did a good job, they were crunchy and not overcooked."
(2)
Darius M.
Beer isn't that great. The food is good. Pizzas are a specialty. It would be a more frequent stop for me if they added a couple of "guest" taps featuring quality micros that they don't brew themselves; ie russian imperial stout.
(4)
Candice S.
Yummy bloody Mary's & great bar food! The fried pickles are amazing, but beware the bacon wrapped jalapeño! They are SO incredibly hot. I love spicy food and I couldn't handle them! Nice atmosphere, fast service.. but could be more polite. We'll definitely be back but pray for a friendly waitress :)
(4)
Brittany A.
Went to this place last night and it's just as it's previous average says it is.... A-OK. The place is huge. Large bar area, two patios. They had live music on the patio which was nice. I would have loved to sit on the patio but because of the saturday night wait, we opted for first available. The inside has clearly not been remodeled since it was built. Definitely old 90's decor. FOOD was okay. My husband loved his spicy trout dish. The kids pizza looked appetizing enough. My daughter's sweet potato fries looked pretty limp and sad at first but do not be fooled! They were still pretty crispy. Our pupusas were good! My chicken caesar was....... a chicken caesar. Pretty normal. The soups, though? No, no, no. I got the tomato bisque because I am a HUGE tomato bisque lover. I still get shivers when I think of the 2 bites I took. It was an unappetizing light orange color with the texture of mealy tomatoes. It tasted like dirty dish water. No salt, super watery. Just, no. The french onion wasn't much better but edible. I highly doubt it is house made. Really salty. The portions are tiny as well. They brought out the "bowl" of soup and I had to ask if they had accidentally brought out a cup. Very tiny, especially for $7. Overall, really disappointed with the soup. Especially since that's what I had ordered for my main course. SERVICE was okay. Our waitress was a bit awkward. But it takes all kinds, I guess. She didn't write anything down and forgot my soup the first go around as well as forgetting that I had asked for no croutons on my salad. She was pretty responsive to our requests though, which is always nice. Especially with kids who were sending her back and forth for drinks, bleu cheese to dip pizza in, ranch, etc. My husband loved the beer, though. Under $4 for a great beer? We never see that. Overall I think this place is pricey for the atmosphere and the food quality. We had an A-OK time. I don't think we'll go again because of the prices but with a large group for drinks and apps? Sure!
(3)
Leah P.
Tried their beer at the Alive at Five event and really enjoyed it. I'm not a big beer drinker, but I enjoyed the two beers that I did have. Husband and I went here after the event, excited to try the local hot spot that we've had people recommend to us, as we're new residents of Frederick. I was unimpressed with the hostesses. I felt like they were not very friendly or courteous. They asked us if we were open to sitting in the bar and we said yes, then they told us to go see if anything was open and if not we could come back and they would get us a table. Isn't that the hostess's job? I'm big on customer service and the overall demeanor of the two girls up front, plus this, really turned me off. The bar is a beautiful area with the big windows, but when we turned the corner to sit in the dining area, we were very unimpressed. The atmosphere felt very cramped and the decor felt like you were eating in a Perkins. For such a neat building and beautiful bar area, we were disappointed with the dining area. It was a busy night for them so, service was a little slow. We found ourselves waiting for quite some time to order, for our food, to get our check, and then to pay our check. The waitress was fairly friendly, though. The food was tasty. We enjoyed the pulled pork sandwich and a small pizza. Both dishes were very tasty and generously sized portions for the price. I give the food a higher rating than the overall rating. We'll be back, but next time we will be sure to sit on the patio or in the bar!
(3)
Chris W.
I wish I could give a zero star rating. In reality, the service is great and the food is good, but we had pretty much the worst experience possible when trying to have a nice evening out with friends. We had a large group, and when we were seated, half of our group was held up, and a manager by the name of Brian decided that he should call one of our party an asshole straight to her face. Just because we have an unusually large group that makes us assholes and we shouldn't ask him for any help because he is absolutely against customer service. Usually managers should be all about alleviating bad situations. Instead, Brian thought that the best course of action was to be completely unprofessional in seating a wedding party, and to accost a member of our party for no apparent reason. Needless to say, we will never visit this establishment again due to Brian's horrible people skills and unprofessional conduct. Despite the horrible management, the server named Jordan was extremely pleasant and tried everything she could to make our experience as enjoyable as possible.
(1)
Cindy A.
Went on a Saturday for dinner (in March) and it was packed. We had reservations for 9 people, for 6Pm. They sat us at 6:15pm. Ehh not so bad. The group before us just didn't want to leave. It was a great spot with a nice view of street in front (the back room looked a little uninviting with its no windows and such.) I got what the waiter recommended, which was great. (Shrimp & lobster over polenta - I think it was a special.) I was disappointed with the lack of better-for-you side dishes, especially for kids. Both my kids ordered the pizza, but both ended up with fries as a side b/c they had no other good options. Wah. Really? Some restaurants have great options for kids. This is not one of those places.
(3)
Robert H.
I really liked the quality of service here, everyone from the greeters to the servers were friendly and attentive. They brew their own beer and offer flights so you can try a wide variety. I will definitely be back here next time I'm around the Frederick area (preferably when I'm not the designated driver!).
(4)
Devonshire B.
Like Yelp says: "Meh. I've experienced better."
(2)
Adam P.
If your looking for a great meal Brewers Alley has it. The service was wonderful from the time we walked in until the time we left. I had my family along with some friends and the staff was very helpful and accommodating. We had the popcorn shrimp appetizer which was great and then for dinner we had the fish and chips and the meatloaf with cheddar whipped mashed potatoes and green beans. Also they have a great kids meal that should appeal to most young ones. 5 stars.
(5)
Mehmed M.
Meh. Food is way overpriced for the quality. Quite frankly the food tasted like it came from the back of a Sysco truck and was heated up with little to no added spice. But... the price ($20 for entrees) tells me they use gourment ingredients. I think my tastebuds know the difference. I didn't get any beers, nor did I hang out at the bar. Maybe this is a great place to meet for a drink - but for dinner? no way. Too many better alternatives a stone's throw away to ever eat here again.
(2)
Robin S.
This is a good place for lunch. I had one of the specials: ham & cheese (not as simple as it sounds) and potato salad. Potato salad was average (Gram ruined me cause no one can touch her's). The ham & cheese was very good, piled high & good bread. The atmosphere was nice. Good service, good recommendations. A solid 3-star restaurant.
(3)
Daniel A.
*Banquet Review* I have to say that the atmosphere, food, and bar selections are great for the price. Highly recommend them for a company dinner, rehersal dinner, etc. Had a great experience. Jackie the coordinator was easy to work with.
(5)
Andrew M.
Great atmosphere, very tasty house brewed beers. I had the Oktoberfest which has become one of my favorite seasonals - was not expecting that! The sampler is a steal at $7 for a pick 6 of their microbrews. Didn't get any food this time but the smells wafted delectably through the bar/restaurant air. Looked good too! But go for the beers, at the least.
(4)
Robin M.
Atmosphere was your average pub, comfortably packed with people enjoying themselves and their food. My Caesar salad was okay and I got the "fish and chips" which were not bad. Their French fries are amazing tho. Good service and decent atmosphere. Nice pub for Frederick.
(3)
Tim U.
Visited while in town in business. Said they had wifi internet and it didn't work upon arrival. Waitress mentioned it was common for it not to work. Good fish and chips although the price was a bit high at $15, even during Happy Hour. Not convinced to come back.
(3)
Ashley C.
My family had lunch at Brewer's Alley today for my niece's birthday, and I could not have been more impressed. They had an extensive gluten free menu, and were willing to modify most items on the menu to be gluten free, even going as far as pan frying their hand-cut fries to avoid cross-contamination issues. Our server was so helpful and attentive, and manager Brian's concern for accommodating my celiac diet went above and beyond what I expected. Oh, and the handcut fries and fish tacos were fantastic, too!
(5)
William F.
We stopped here today for some beer and bar food, and left rather disappointed. The food was poor, and the service was worse. In the past, we always liked this place, so we were rather surprised.
(1)
Dana Z.
I've been here a few times for late night in the bar area which has always been just ok... sometimes a little too crowded and loud for what it is. Definitely not one of the first places I would pick downtown to go, but has always been a solid place to go. Went back just recently for dinner. The service as mentioned in other reviews is very friendly. I do have to say they totally screwed up our table's order though. They cooked one person's steak wrong, they forgot to bring out another person's soup, and they brought me the entirely wrong pizza. Still, they worked to fix all the problems so it wasn't that bad. Just had an off night maybe. As for the food, it's good but not great. They do have a pretty big menu with a big selection. If anything, I would like to see more salads on the menu. They were all pretty boring. Not the greatest place downtown, but it does the job.
(3)
Ignacio S.
I have been there several times in the last six or seven years. It used to have a shorter menu when they made the brews in-house. Every beer that I have ever had there was at least good. Most of them are very good, and some of them, such as their stout, are fantastic. The food menu is hit or miss, with more misses than hits. Their fries are always good, but most of the rest can be either pretty good or pretty bad, sometimes in the same menu item. Case in point, our last visit. We had a calamari appetizer. The outside is golden, crispy, light, and delicious, but the squid itself was chewy, close to rubbery. In the same visit, I had the reuben and I was disappointed. Very little, almost flavorless sauerkraut, a lot of not very good pastrami, and a lot, a lot, a lot of fat on the bread. My wife had the open face turkey sandwich. The turkey was good, but the gravy tasted like it came from some evil powder, with a strong flavor that reminded us of those soups that come in and envelope. The spinach with garlic adn bacon that was the side dish was excellent. So, to summarize, go just for the beer because the food, with a few exceptions, is average at best. There are several places with much better food within a couple hundred yards.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Garage, Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Heather H.
Five stars!!! Five for the delicious Pepperoni and goat cheese pizza, five for the Lamb and potatoes, five for the chocolate brownie and creme brule desert, five for the wine and beer, and five for the great service even know she was busting her ass!! 2nd time here and can't wait to go back, everything has perfect taste. They have a variety to choose from, they also have patio seating! This is great place to have amazing food and still have a good time with your family and friends or a casual date night!! The best part was it was only $62 for all food!! Prices are reasonable!! I'm all about good food and I highly recommend this place!
(5)Jules K.
Yeah. So. I find it hard to downrate an independent brewery, but this isn't 3 solid stars, this is three because I can't give 2.5 stars. If I hadn't had a beer, it would be 2 stars because I can't give 1.5. At any rate, don't be fooled by the prices, the place is really casual, almost run down. Like many businesses in Frederick, I assume this was another restaurant before its current incarnation and BA moved in without making many changes to the dining room. Or they bought all of their furniture used. The food. It was OK. But just OK, part of it was the pricing, which suggested something better than OK, but we were hungry. So now you're like - Wait, meh interior, meh food. What about the service? So, I know waiting tables is an incredibly hard job. Both physically and mentally taxing. I really admire people who can go all day, smiling through the amount of idiocy and outright rudeness they must endure from various dimwits and creeps, without stuffing a blue plate special up a nostril or two. BUT. The service at this place, what gives? It wasn't busy, there were several empty tables and there were often members of the wait staff just sort of hanging around. But the person waiting our table made us feel really rushed to eat and get out. Also, she didn't tell us about the different prices for beer (1.50 for 5 oz) and the samplers etc. I learned about this after we'd placed our order when I heard another waiter telling the party at the table beside ours. Perhaps this is crazy talk, but in a brewery, I would have expected every waiter to talk up the suds. However, based on observation when we left, our inopportune arrival had interrupted an important conversation with some co-workers. That's faux pas we won't commit again! Call it 2 stars for the beer, 1 star for everything else. You've been warned.
(3)Natasha P.
Went here a while ago because a friend was having a birthday dinner here. Everyone in Frederick talks about this place and I don't understand why. The fried pickles are great but that's it. Everything else was basic with little to no seasoning. I only gave it two stars because one was for the waitress she was nice the other star was for the pickles.
(2)Sarah B.
Great building and even better food! The Quail and calamari special had interesting flavors that surprised me. I would come back more than once!!
(5)Ashley S.
This place was fun when I was 21 and used to hit up Market Street but now that I actually go for the food this is what the review will be about. My husband and I went for lunch a few weeks ago. Ordered a rum and coke and him a beer. The drink was super light and you couldn't taste any alcohol. We ordered the crab dip as an appetizer. They fail to mention on the menu that it's crab purée. Seriously. It's a creamy dip. We were told that they actually blend the crab and bake it. Not for us. We like to see our crab in out dip. Ordered a burger medium and it came to me rare. Like the burger was kind of cold in the middle rare. My husband ordered a steak and that was rare as well instead of med-rare. Not a super big deal on the steak but at this point we were quite over this place.
(1)Allan R.
One of my favorite spots in Frederick. For Drinking: I'm a beer lover and they make their own beer. Their beer is pretty good. Their hard alcohol menu is even better (though I generally just drool over it and order beer)/ For eating: Their food is great. Their Reuben made me fall in love. Their pizzas are interesting and delicious. I've been here in groups of varying sizes around a dozen times now, and it's been rare that anyone hasn't enjoyed their food. Atmosphere: Brewer's Alley seems to attract a pretty young partying crowd. Each to their own, but that's not my crowd, and their bar area gets so packed I don't even want to get near it. But if you eat outside, or ask for a table indoors, the ambiance is very nice.
(5)Katie W.
This place is just okay in my opinion. Our waitress, Kay, was very enthusiastic and passionate about her job. Her service was attentive and she did talk us into getting a beer and the Mac and cheese (the star of our meal). The Macaroni and cheese is simply delicious and 5 stars, but the burger and French dip-like sandwich was just okay. Atmosphere is dingy unless outside. Says it gets local ingredients which is cool, but food is really just okay. Service was super quick and our waitress got us the Mac and cheese before our meals (we wanted it as an appetizer) even though we ordered it 5-10 minutes after placing our dinner meals in, which was great!
(3)Ashley G.
Okay beers, but a pretty tired restaurant. You know the places where the tables will just always be a little sticky? That's Brewer's Alley: Nothing special. Also, I was there in April and they were still serving Octoberfest. No thanks!
(2)Patt M.
We are visiting; we took our family with 3 grandchildren to dinner. We had all been here once before and had a wonderful experience. Our waitperson was friendly and personable but inefficient. The 4 adult dinners arrived along with one hamburger from the regular menu. The chicken fingers and grilled cheese from the children's menu did not arrive. When we finally called this to our waitperson' attention, the order had never been placed!!!!! Inexcusable for young children. Fortunately these girls nibbled on other's French fries and pizza while they waited. Everyone had finished eating by the time their dinners arrived. I am not sure if we will return to Brewer's Alley during our next visit. The food was good but the service very poor. Our waitperson seemed knowledgable but possibly needs more experience???
(2)mark s.
We went for perhaps our 3rd time in a year last night. In prior visits we have had decent burgers and pizza. Last night I tried the Thursday sirloin special and 2 others had the lobster special. What a loss of an evening. The drinks (my son is a bartender so knows a bit on the subject were 1. weak (could absolutely not taste the martini) and 2. Badly made (manhattan. Moving right along the Caesar salads were terrible, under dressed and bland unappealing sights. My steak was perhaps 1/2 inch think, covered with a sauce that was too strong and I guess intended in covering up the overcooked meat (which was ordered medium rare). The lobster was "horrible" to quote my wife and "rubbery". This restaurant group did such a nice job at Acacia (now gone) and with Ayse Meze is popular, although not my favorite. I guess it's best to stick with beer and burgers/pizza at Brewers. But venturing beyond that was a big mistake for us.
(1)Kristen H.
I've been here a few times when I venture into downtown Frederick, which is a fun up-and-coming area. There's always new restaurants popping up to try. This one has been a staple though, always providing a tasty home brewed beer selection. The last time I came here I decided to be vegetarian for the day and get the black bean burger with mushroom soup on the side. The flavoring the both the burger and soup was great, I would just say that the texture of the black bean burger needs to be more well blended and firmer. When I took a bite out of it, a third of it spewed out the other end of my burger, kind of messy to deal with. I would definitely still come back here another time for sure. I like the lively atmosphere of the bar area, always a good time!
(4)Ali C.
I really loved my food here! I can't recall the exact name of my order but I had Salmon with a tomato risotto. It was very good. Not over cooked or undercooked which is somewhat difficult to find with Salmon and risotto. Good service and nice ambience.
(5)Susanne A.
Comfortable brewpub food. Really good crab cakes with fresh vegetables and a huge portion of mashed potatoes. Brewed iced tea. Hamburger looked good even if ordered well done. Pasta with mussels was generous,
(3)Sarah S.
This was a lovely place for dinner for our one night in Frederick! We got the crab dip as an appetizer to start and it was lovely, not the best I had ever had but it was a close second! I definitely recommend it if you're a crab person. My grandmother and I split the crab cake dinner and it was the perfect amount of food with veggies and mashed potatoes on the side. Grand daddy got the shrimp and grits which I was too scared to get because it said jalapeño grits but it wasn't too spicy at all it was delicious! The dinner along with a glass of wine and a great ambiance and excellent service made for a great experience!
(4)John M.
In town for a wedding. Stopped here for lunch. Ordered the lunch special with trout. Perfection. Just sayin...
(4)Stacie C.
"We're a brewery first," said our waiter. A good thing, considering we were there mostly for the beer and kind of for some food. With the idea that this is a brewery (and promotes itself as "the first brewery in Frederick County"), I'm not sure what atmosphere they are going for exactly. It doesn't really feel like a pub but didn't seem really inviting as a restaurant, either. Either way, I enjoyed the variety of beers. The fried pickles and margherita pizza also hit the spot. I'm torn on whether or not this is a place I'd recommend. I guess inevitably I would say if you're looking to try some good beer, check it out knowing they have decent food if you're also in the mood for bar food. But I wouldn't recommend it as a dinner-only type of place.
(3)Amy S.
This is our go-to place when ever we have friends in town. The oysters are a favorite, though about 50% of the time they aren't shucked properly (still good flavor though). Lobster night is also a favorite. In terms of drinks if you're getting mixed drink, try to keep to the standards. Or just get beer, it's always good (they are a brewery after all). A good place if you want consistent good food for a decent price.
(4)Beata K.
Good local restaurant/bar. Been here a few times and really like the fried pickles and the burgers ( black bean one is very good as well as the regular burger). I'd suggest getting the sweet potato fries...well worth the extra charge. We also got the wings and they were pretty good, wouldn't come here just for the wings but they're good as an app. I don't drink beer but the hubby and some friends tell me it's pretty good here. I'd give this place 3.5 stars if I could primarily because it smells fishy inside the restaurant. Sit outside if you can as it's a nice view.
(3)T K.
Got into brewers at 910 ordered a special,,, airline chicken,,, which was supposed to have ham cheese bbq sauce,,, restaurant was maybe a quarter full. I inquired where my food was my waitress said they were busy closing the kitchen,,, that was the hold up,,,, finally at 10 ,,,, 50 minutes later finally dinner comes ,,,,, great a 2,5 ounce overcooked chicken breast with no ham no cheese like the special said. The portion was so small it looked like a pigeon breast,,, awful just awful ,,,, this place has really gone downhill if you have a choice dont go here. Lucky corner up the street rocks. Why stay open for food late if there gonna serve you garbage??? Too bad white star is closed :)
(1)Michelle N.
Love this place! This is our go to spot when we want some great food and beer. We always come here atleast once a week. The staff are always so friendly and welcoming. Definately recommend!
(5)Carol N.
Husband and I were in town for a friend's wedding and she recommended this place. We hit up Barley and Hops to taste their beers first and were not impressed (beer was good, spinach dip appetizer was disgusting). We were pleasantly surprised with this place, however. Good beer (I had the Two Loves Chocolate-YUMM, husband had the Three Kings Spiced Ale), not a long wait for dinner on a Friday night (20 mins), good food (but just a bit too much), great service. Our waiter was attentive and not pushy given how busy it was. And he looked a lot like Edward Norton which is always a plus. We came back with friends for a drink after the ceremony and pre-reception. Found a seat in the bar and had good service, a nice view of the busy Market Street and enjoyed some good brews. I would definitely go back next time we're in town.
(5)Bethany E.
I was in Frederick with a friend. We decided to walk around the cute little downtown area. There are great shops and boutiques to explore. Brewers Alley is a great pub with specialty beers. We weren't in the drinking mood at the time but wanted to grab a bite to eat. There is plenty of spacious seating with indoor and outdoor options. We had started out with the Maryland Crab and Pablano Chili Cheese Dip. I couldn't get enough of this! I loved the crab pieces in this cheesy dish of heaven! I would have licked the bowl if it wasn't frowned upon! This dip is so tasty and flavorful! As Rachael Ray would say... YUM-O! For my meal I ordered the Opera House Chopped Salad. As I do at most places, I order the Cobb Salad. This might as well been a Cobb since it had the same ingredients. It was delicious! I ordered their vinaigrette on the side which also complemented the salad. The service was just ok but I always try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. You never know what is going on in their lives and I don't want to criticize. We've all had those days. All in all, this is a great place to stop in downtown Frederick. Plus it's nice there is a parking garage right behind the place!
(4)Nicole G.
Any restaurant that can put together a table for 12 people and roll with the punches smoothly is great in my eyes! I got to sample some of the wings and the goat cheese and apple pizza. Both were great! Other friends had cocktails and beer, and even a few shooters. I wish I like oysters because those who got them were raving! I also tried a bite of a delicious reuben another friend ordered. Great food, great service, and very accommodating! A perfect lunch spot before exploring Frederick.
(4)Kenzie F.
Several years ago, I could rave about the food here. Now, not so much. If you're here for the bar, you're in the right place. If you're just going in for food, I would recommend going elsewhere downtown. I have tried 3 times to change my mind about the food. I had really talked this place up to friends, so after visiting it was pretty uncomfortable when the food was obviously unimpressive. Later, I went with friends that had been before and they had the same thought as I did: "this place used to be so good". So, sadly I probably won't try again with this place. If you're there to just enjoy a few drinks with friends, go for it. Otherwise...
(2)Mary M.
I reserved a table on a Saturday at 6:00 for a co-worker's bachelorette party. Everyone found something they liked on the menu and seemed to enjoy their meals. I had the crab dip and the fish and chips, both of which were excellent. I saw someone below stated that the crab dip was a pure - this was not the case us.. It had an excellent flavor and lots of big chunks of crab meat. Our "bachelorette" had selected Brewers because she particularly liked one of their specialty pizzas. Although it had been removed from the menu, when she asked the waiter about it he checked with the kitchen and they agreed to make it for her anyway. We were in no hurry to leave as we were chatting, opening gifts and playing some games. I should have let them know when I made the reservation that we planned to stay for a while - but I didn't (my mistake.) It was a busy night for them and they had booked another group for the table at 8:00. We were done with our dinners but still going strong. The manager came over to talk to us and very nicely let us know that had booked another group for 8:00. She said if we didn't not mind moving she would be happy to try to make some space for us at the bar - we were fine with this. Unfortunately, the bar was apparently packed. However, she came up with an even better solution - one of their upstairs banquet rooms was not in use and she offered to move us up there and provide us with a server. This turned out to be awesome, as we had the whole room to ourselves and excellent service. We stayed a couple more hours and really enjoyed ourselves. The manager even brought us all shots to apologize which was not expected. Turns out the party waiting for the table after us was that of another of our co-workers who was there for her sister's birthday. Apparently they were given free appetizers to make up for having to wait an extra 15 minutes for the table. We were truly impressed with how the manager handled what could have been a very difficult situation and made everyone happy. The staff was awesome across the board. We would absolutely return for a party - of course we'd let them know how long we planned to stay this time. Additionally I would be happy to return with family for a dinner out anytime.
(5)Justin C.
Come on guys, fourteen bucks for a burger, you could at least give a salad and a side with that. Food was good though, don't get me wrong, except maybe the pizza which looks and tastes like the frozen ones you get at the grocery store and make at home. Bartenders can be a little jerky too unless your a regular. Their beers are good but a little pricey unless you go at happy hour or something, decent place and fun to come to now and then, but it can be a money pit if you stay any amount of time. Overall, if you ask me the place is a little pretentious for what it is. Pretty small bar area that gets packed on weekend nights, most times there will be no place to sit. Its ok, and fun to go to now and then but I just dont get some peoples obsession with this place. Im heading over to Firestones...
(3)LaKisha P.
Great service. Beer selection is great. Food is good, but some items aren't as flavorful as I'd prefer. The bar atmosphere is comfortable and the dog patio is a great addition.
(4)Kevin H.
The beer, food and service was good. We decided to come back the next night with a larger group. The restaurant advised reservations for groups of six or more, so we phoned to make a reservation for 6:45 PM on a Saturday evening. We were told to just come on in; no reservation was necessary. When we arrived, however, we were told that we should have made a reservation, as there would be a long wait. We explained that we had tried to do just that but had not been allowed to, but that did no good. We have now been waiting for half an hour... I strongly recommend that you try to make a reservation, and if you are told it is not necessary, go to another restaurant.
(2)Joey B.
This is a wonderful building!!! and i have wonderful memories coming here years ago! The food is not very good and that's kinda sad since its an all American Brewery. You want good food with your beer.. That's just food 101.. Nothing i have ordered here ever came out fresh. you will get the Trots from eating here. lol The Service is a hit or miss here. most of the time the waiters and waitresses are nice but other times they have been darn rude. If you are a beer drinker and love to socialize at night and weekends at watch sports, then this is the place for you! The atmosphere is very nice!!!
(3)Anna N.
On a trip home from DC we asked Siri the best places to eat near by. Lucky for us this place came up. We got seated right away and were starving! The service was good, but we were so pleasantly surprised with the food. The fired pickles were a great way to start our meal then I got the avocado turkey burger which was HUGE and messy but delicious! My boyfriend also really enjoyed his pizza. We didn't partake in any of the beer since we were traveling so I don't have input on that. If we are ever in the area again I know we will be stopping by here!
(4)Evey G.
We had a wonderful time at Brewer's Alley, twice! We attended a rehearsal dinner in one of their upstairs rooms which was just very well handled and lovely. We also returned the next day for a regular lunch in the main dining room and had a great experience. The food is delicious, and while I didn't have any of their beer I heard great things about the selection. The restaurant is really cute and convenient. Beautifully decorated, charming, easy to access, and with a parking garage just behind it. We didn't find the prices overwhelming or inappropriate, and all of the staff we encountered during both the rehearsal dinner and the lunch were outstanding. If we are back in Frederick we would absolutely recommend this restaurant and return ourselves.
(4)Susie-q C.
This restaurant is easily one of my favorites. Their beer, their food, the location, service. My favorite dish here is the black bean burger, soooo delicious! They have a great variety of dishes from seafood, to pizzas, burgers, salads. Will be visiting this place for as long as I'm downtown Frederick!
(5)James H.
Food and drink were great on first visit. Based on second visit, staff training and reservation policy is atrocious and irresponsible for an establishment of purportedly high caliber. We called at 6:15 pm to make a dinner reservation for a party of 6 adults plus a 3 year old child. We were told that fitting in such a party at 6:45 pm would not require a reservation and were not allowed to make one. An advance party arrived at 6:40 pm to claim the table, and was told the wait time would be 25-30 minutes. At 7:00 pm the rest of the party had arrived and the group was told the wait time would still be 30-35 minutes despite the time that had passed. The manager was not able to determine which member of staff lied to customers about the option to make a reservation and maintained that staff were trained despite this evidence to the contrary.
(1)Lorena B.
Do not go to the bar at Brewer's Alley if you're in a time crunch. Service is slow. I've been here twice, once on a late Saturday night when it was packed and on a Sunday evening when it was fairly busy. On both occasions the waitress was friendly but there were loooong wait times to get menus, order drinks, get refills, etc. As the name implies, they brew their own beers here. You can pick a flight of six (I think) to taste. The boo enjoyed that. Me, I liked my usual vodka soda but I also had a Bellini that was gross. I've had better ones in casinos. I've never eaten a meal here but the menu is extensive so it seems like a good choice if you're with a group. On my first visit, I had the brownie ice cream sundae. I'm not usually a vanilla ice cream fan but I remember the menu said it was either homemade or locally made and it was pretty damn good. The crab dip I had during the more recent visit was disappointing. The chips were warm Tostitos and the dip seemed to be cream cheese with one piece of crab meat. However, it came with a spicy salsa that was delicious and should be an app on it's own.
(3)Chason J.
Awesome place with a cool vibe. The old walls mixed with a new bar and TV's make it a chill place to grab a brew. The pizza is killer. I definitely recommend going here.
(4)Anonymous A.
First time here for lunch and I enjoyed the food and service. But the restaurant just doesn't feel clean. I was seated in the north room and the carpet was filthy, the chair upholstery stained and the wooden tables have seen better days. Maybe table cloths or placemats would help but the dust on the table legs and overall grimy look are inexcusable. The waitress was very kind and efficient and my food tasted delicious but they just need to clean the place up. There was even a peculiar odor when I first entered but luckily it was dissipated by the ceiling fans.
(3)Ashly L.
The beer is pretty good, but their food leaves a lot to be desired. Had the French Dip special today. The roast beef was tasty, but there were WAY too many balsamic onions on the dish. Also, the onions were so tart, I had to remove them from the sandwich. The other thing I noticed was my beer glass was sticky. I looked and it had syrup stuck on the bottom. I'll pop in for a beer every now and then, but other than that I think I'd pass.
(2)Suzanne K.
This restaurant, bar, brewery is awesome. From the old wood to the fun staff to the great food my family and I love it all. We regularly meet here on Fridays for happy hour, my husband and I used to come on Wednesday nights for their free buffet and happy hour beers (when we were young and did not have as much extra funds for nights out) and we love to come on Thursday for their Lobster night. The servers are fun, especially Alan (heeeeyyyy), all of them have their favorite items on the menu. All of their brews are delicious, I personally like the Nut Brown and Kolsch. For wine lovers they have a great selection both by the glass and the bottle and if you want a mixed drink go for it the bartenders are amazing. For foods, I recommend the fried pickles or calamaris, and oysters when they are in season, try out the Mac'n'cheese it's amazing, get the ham trust me. The pizzas are great and they are wood fired which makes them just so much better. OOOHHHH and if you see Apple Pie as the dessert...GET IT! A shout out to the banquet and special occasion staff who guided me through the process of hosting my sisters Bridal Shower upstairs. Jackie was fantastic and I recommend their party rooms for anything you need. They can wire in your music work with you on how best to layout the room and the food is the same deliciousness from the restaurant downstairs. They can even make a cake for your party! Go here, relax and enjoy the afternoon or evening with friends.
(5)Meagan G.
Was here last week for dinner with a friend. While the service was a little slow, the food was excellent. We both got drinks from the bar, him a flight of different beers and I a girly drink. The food was excellent and very reasonable in price, good portion sizes for the price and a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
(4)Rachel L.
pretty good beers, i really enjoyed the burger and the nachos.
(4)David F.
Beer was excellent they had the oh my gourd on tap barrel aged, got he jumbo lump crap, usually don't eat seafood at all and OMG that shit was amazing, ou have to get it.... HAVE TO!
(4)Steven B.
Visiting here was mandatory as my last name is Brewer! I whipped in for a late lunch, showed my ID to the bartender, and said that considering my last name, everything should be free. Sadly she wouldn't go for it. Not even a free brew. Oh well. The atmosphere is great. It's a very old building that was once an opera house among other things. It has a history a mile long and if you like old restored buildings, as I do, you'll love it! I've been to dozens of breweries and the beers here were A-OK. They were nothing special but just fine. Prices were competitive. I ordered the BLACKENED BURGER ($12). It was one-half pound of Lean Hereford Beef with Blackened Seasoning, Pepper-Jack Cheese, LTO and Horseradish Cream on a Toasted Potato Knot Roll. It came with shoestring fries and it was tasty and A-OK. My bartender was friendly and customer service was A-OK. Are you sensing a theme here? I had a decent meal with decent brews but nothing made me go wow. For me, this was a typical three star experience.
(3)Cliff W.
Not often, but sometimes, I venture outside the beltway. When it does happen, it's usually for something epic. No, we didn't leave the sweet comforting confines of urban civilization for this establishment, but instead for a waterfall in Thurmont MD. Afterwards though we found ourselves to be famished and needed to get some grub. I had heard about Brewer's Alley in past conversations about this place having the best burger. That's a tall claim, especially when you make it to me, a guy who's trying his hardest to clog his arteries with nothing but the best burgers one can find. For those who haven't read my previous reviews, I'm pretty passionate about this quest. So when we were all tired and fresh off the trail, I thought that since I was in the area and hungry that today would be judgement day. For someone not from Frederick, I was actually somewhat excited about knowing this spot was downtown. It's on "Main St, USA" if you know what I mean. On a Saturday afternoon there was a band playing down the street on the sidewalk, there were people everywhere, all in all I loved this little slice of Americana that I found myself in. Brewer's Alley lives up to its name by being in an alley. There was patio seating to be had and if we were visiting in the evening we would have sat outside. However, being hot, we went inside and found plenty of open tables in the bar area. Many a local there were adorned in their finest Orioles attire while they watched the game on one of the many tvs the place had up. The service was a bit slow, but I was able to order a nut brown ale that was pretty tasty. Their pizza menu looked delicious, but I didn't stumble my way into this establishment for that. No, my sights were set on their burger. My friends ordered a pizza, a pulled pork sandwich, and a salad. Everyone was pleased with their meal, but no one was blown away. The burger, ordered medium, came and was a watered down version of what one could get at Central in DC. It was good, don't get me wrong, but I would never place it in the category of being the best. It could most certainly be the best in Frederick, I'm willing to say that, but the best ever? Nah. The fries that came with it were also the really thing stringy kind. I'm not a fan of those. I want some potato in the middle of the fry, and the little thing string fries there weren't my thing. One of the people I was with though liked them, so depending on your preference they could possibly be great. The meal in its entirety was generally cheap in terms of price, and I'd probably go back if I found myself hungry in Frederick again. However, there's no way I'd make a special trip out from the beltway into the wild lands of Maryland when there are much better restaurants locally. If I was a Frederick local though? It could possibly be a spot I'd frequent. Dems da breaks.
(3)Shana C.
Met some clients for a business lunch and decided to refill my growler... from 2010. I didn't realize I hadn't cleaned it properly (they don't accept dirty growlers). I explained that I lived over 45 minutes away I really didn't want to drive all the way back to have it refilled next time. Shortly after the manager came to the table and instead of reprimanding me - he explained why they have the policy, how to clean it properly in the future, and offered to replace the growler with a new one at no charge. The excellent customer service did not stop there! Our waitress was very attentive (even during a busy lunch hour) and the food was great. I ordered the fish tacos, which had with delicious large pieces of fish, and french fries. The service and food were outstanding, if you haven't been here - you should go immediately.
(5)A N.
I eat lunch here frequently.. and it is reliably good. However I went to a group dinner last evening.... worst.meal.ever. Everything was "from a box" from the pasta to the mashed potatoes ... (yes both in the same meal) with 2 meat dishes... no veggies short of a salad. The salt bread would have been ok.. if I was drinking beer... but I was not. I have eaten at "banquets " like this throughout the region, in places that are pretty darned bad. My expectations were for a good healthy and tasty meal from B.A. Instead it may have been the worst restaurant meal of my life...
(1)Joseph F.
Speedy service, and good food. Fun, old timey atmosphere in the heart of a great city. Try the steak; it's excellent. So is their blueberry beer.
(5)Eugene K.
Excellent food and an excellent cask conditioned IPA. AUTHENTIC! The oak-barreled oatmeal stout was good. Not AWESOME but very good. The cask conditioned IPA? Out of this world. Cellar-temperature (closer to room temperature than ice-cold), no carbonic acid bite... a real British pub IPA. OMFG. And... I had the Sunday special which was a Salmon Ratatouille. perfectly seasoned... not salty... the vegies was sautéed just right... the salmon was perfect as well. Frankly could have had two.. but I needed to stop. I could eat there alone, I could eat there with friends, I could eat there with family. Excellent service and food. (so if you're a real beer snob... you have to get the cask conditioned special... I tried the draught IPA vs the cask IPA... night and day... two completely different beers... cellar temperature cask all the way)
(5)Shari S.
It was okay, really. But just okay. With so many options in the area, I think I would try a different one next time rather than go here again. Nothing stood out as being horrible, but nothing really stood out as being great either. I agree with the others -- the front door staff really wasn't that friendly. Neither was our waiter in the beginning, although he did warm up a bit later in the meal. If it was the only game in town, sure, I'd give it another go. But since it's not, if we return to Frederick, we'll try something else.
(3)Mihai T.
My first burger at Brewer's Alley. One of the best I've ever had. Add a craft beer to that, awesome
(5)Colleen B.
We were so glad to see Frederick was so dog friendly! This restaurant even had a dogie patio. That said we have come to the conclusion that the patio is where they send the bad waiters. The menu had pumpkin bisque as the soup of the day so we ordered it. Not only had they taken it off but they must have forgotten to tell our waitress. The runner tried to tell us that the beef soup he gave us was Pumpkin. Seriously? It has beans and chunks of beef! The waitress was nice enough to take the soup we sent back off our bill. Gee, thanks. The cold bean veggie burger was edible but the fries were outstanding! Tiny shoe string. YUM.
(3)Michele W.
Gotta love a place that has their own brews! The waiters are also very knowledgeable about their offerings if you are indecisive. There is a good variety of food choices. The food is good and satisfying
(3)Michelle A.
This restaurant seems to be a Frederick favorite, and (being brand new to the area) it was at the top of my list to try... Me, my two girlfriends and my daughter stopped in a little after 1pm on a Saturday. We got seated right away, and our waitress was prompt, friendly and helpful. This is a brewery, so we stuck with things that have natural associations with beer. We started with fried calamari (beer battered) and were pleasantly surprised to find two sauces (cocktail and an aioli) and hand-cut calamari rings. The batter was crisp and light and flavorful... overall, it was a really good version of a dish that can be a let-down when it's not done right. Then I got a burger with blue cheese. It was a better than average burger, with a healthy amt of cheese, and a nice large fresh bun. It also came with onion straws, lettuce and tomato. I happen to like thick burgers, so for me this was great. My friends tried a burger and also liked it, and then got the pulled pork sandwich as well, which looked a little wet (coming from Richmond, I know it's preferable to put your own BBQ sauce on pulled pork, but hey, when in Rome...) but was otherwise reported to be delicious. Also, as a curveball, we ordered the braise kale. It was braised with bacon, so really- we had to try it. And it was good, if a little greasy. The bacon wasn't crisp, which I think is the correct way to serve this dish, but overall, the bacon lent a nice salty flavor to otherwise bland kale, and the kale was cooked and tender but not overcooked or mushy... Bonus points for being kind and accommodating to my 1 year old, and this place is a no-brainer for when I need to get out of the house for a casual dinner. The prices, while they may be high for some items as other reviewers noted, seemed reasonable for the foods we ordered.
(5)Casey J.
I have dined here several times and have been thoroughly impressed with not only the menu but the service as well. Whether it be the steak or a seafood entree I have been delighted with the food. Also I absolutely love that they have an outdoor area where you can dine and bring your dog with you, actually I can say that the whole town of Fredrick is very dog friendly as far as the businesses are concerned. Anyways you can bet I'll be eating here again!
(5)Corey W.
Overall, this place is great. I've only been in the bar area to eat, and I really like it. We had the Oatmeal Stout and it's my wife's favorite beer (so we had lots of it). Pizza is fantastic; we also had some raw oysters and the jalapeño pretzel - both really good. Nice mixture of young and old people; staff is on point and plenty of TVs in the at area if you want to do some sports watching. It's a Fredrick staple, so you gotta go.
(4)Kem W.
It's always hard to judge a restaurant's quality with lunch. Any restaurant that can't make a sandwich must be really pathetic. So it is with this place. I was there for lunch and had a nice roast beef sandwich, thick-sliced, piled high with a nice cheddar. We also had a chicken salad sandwich. That was deemed too processed. The chicken could have been chunkier. Cole slaw was good as were the fries. I had a hefeweizen that was fine. The dining room we were in looked a tad better than a Bob's Big Boy but the bar area looked OK. But the service was friendly and attentive. Overall I can't complain but it was only lunch.
(3)Becca R.
Stopped in for lunch and some brews the other day while visiting downtown Frederick. When we looked up the menu we couldn't pass up our three favorite things: local microbrews, fried pickles, and handmade spicy black bean burgers. There was a lot of beer to choose from, including several seasonal. The waitress brought out a taste to help us make our decision. I tried the Opera IPA and Kolsch, both were crisp and refreshing. The Opera had a really interesting taste, definitely recommended. Fried pickles were just the right amount, four spears coated in breadcrumbs which made it lighter and crunchy. Also avoided creating the heat pocket that burns the roof of your mouth off like battered fired pickle spears. The black bean burgers were great. Huge patty, held together well for a handmade patty, and packing a nice amount of heat. Good guacamole hidden under the patty. Only thing that could improve it would be top it with pico instead of a tomato slice.
(4)David J.
Met some old friends here, so catching up with each other was priority, not the food. Good thing, because the food was only average and certainly not as good as I remembered from a few years back. Wife had the fish tacos- "OK" and the remainder had burgers, mine undercooked slightly. Beer was good, but I haven't met too many beers I didn't like. Service on a busy Saturday night was OK, but we were stuck at a table in a corner that was not level. Tip to hostesses: if you move tables around, check and use coasters to level the table before you seat guests. Speaking of furniture, at these prices I would think they could afford some new. The dining room is starting to look like a second-hand shop. Overall 2.5 stars, and there are better choices in Frederick.
(3)Alexander A.
Nice bar. Mediocre food. At least in my experience off their daily special menu. Also, I would ask for a swig of their specialty beers if you go that direction. Not very good IMO. I'll definitely return for the atmosphere (and drink bottled beer).
(3)Elaine M.
Everything about Brewer's Alley was great! We got a beer (Kolsch - great, a little like Bud Light but more flavorful) at the bar while waiting for a table - only about a 15 minute wait for a Saturday night. We started with Fried Pickle Spears which were the best fried pickles I've had! Very crispy, because of Panko - didn't fall apart. Also had Crab Dip, which was creamy and not too crabby. Apple Goat Cheese pizza was da bomb. Mac And Cheese side was great. Their French fries are always crispy and delightful - shoestring style. Our server was Jeremy and he was SO FUN and very attentive. He really made our night. Overall, everything was amazing, all the way down to the busser, who was also superb. Will definitely come back!!!
(5)Allison L.
A decent restaurant in a good location. I had the BBQ chicken pizza, which was fine. My fiance had the Ludicrous burger, which is a bacon burger stuffed between two grilled cheese sandwiches. About a gazillion grams of fat, but probably also the best entree out of the 4 ordered. Service was nice, but slow. Prices are reasonable/inexpensive. Not a bad experience, just not memorable enough to hurry back.
(3)Jade M.
While visiting friends this past weekend in Frederick they took us to Brewer's Alley which is located right in the heart of downtown. The restaurant/bar was full of college students and families enjoying a Friday night meal. We arrived a little after 8pm and were seated right away. We started with the Southern Fried Pickles (cajun battered pickle spears) served with Ranch. Yum! We also sampled the Kolsch beer- very crisp and refreshing taste! For our main entrees, my friends and I ordered the Fish Tacos, the Alley Burger (served with fries and crispy tobacco onions), the Spanish Pizza (chorizo, roasted red peppers, red onions and ricotta), and the Pizza Italiano (Italian sausage, pepperoni, red onions, banana and green peppers and mozzarella). Everything was affordably priced and had good flavors. This is a good place to enjoy a meal with friends.
(3)Brian T.
Very cool place with an interesting menu and very good beer list. Prices are reasonable and the service was outstanding.
(5)Benny R.
We arrived with a group of 6 adults and two kids. Then we waited outside for a half hour with plenty of open tables next to each other that they refused to push together. We asked the manager about the tables and she curtly responded "oh, we don't move tables". I'm pretty ecstatic we ended up leaving. I didn't want to eat here anyway. I've been here four times over the last ten years and each time the food was garbage. Now that my family has another reason not to go, hopefully I won't have to ever come back. And now that I have a yelp account I can give this hole the review they deserve.
(1)Jason C.
Good place to stop in and grab a beer and watch a game. The food there is also pretty good as well. The only issue which is not there fault is its always way to crowded at night.
(4)Bran G.
We were excited for this place in downtown Frederick but honestly were not impressed with the beer, service, or lay out. We sat out back which had no character to it. Waitress was knowledgeable but snoody. It started to rain so we went inside, got attitude about it. I guess we should have just gotten soaked? The inside seemed crammed with tables nearly in walkways. Beers were only so-so. Sighhhhh
(2)vanessa g.
I was a big fan of the beer selection, my favorite was the oatmeal stout and the nut brown ale, very delicious. I ordered a Margherita pizza and it tasted pretty average, service at the bar was average and the prices were good. Overall good experience, would love to purchase a growler soon.
(3)Mike M.
Very good beer. Food is OK, not out of this world. Several TV's in the bar area. Fun crowd on a Sunday afternoon, surprisingly packed, especially for mid afternoon. Go for the beer! And get a growler, you can take the beer home with you.
(4)Susan W.
The first brewery/restaurant is the area, it is still creating lovely beers in a fun, old town atmosphere. The food is mostly affordable and good. Owned by the same folks who own Isabella's and Ayse, you will find that yummy calamari on this menu, too. Bring some friends who appreciate good beer and order the tabletop beer dispenser. It's a fun twist and a way to get around the sometimes long wait in getting a refill during their busy times.
(4)Daniella H.
After a looooong day of driving north to raft the Upper Yough, by the time we got off the river and arrived at the restaurant we were starving. We=a group of 8 of us. We were initially seated outside where it took at least 10 minutes to be greeted by our waitress and was so loud that we couldn't even hear each other due to the music. Now, the music on any other night were have been great; however, we just wanted to eat, unwind, and relax at this point. We were immediately seated inside and had a fabulous, funny, much more attentive waiter. I had the mozzarella, roasted red pepper, pesto panini, which was flavorful but a little on the greasier side. We were served quickly and all in all ended quite satisfied. Our favorite part about this place was the locally brewed beers. Mmmmmm, this place makes 'em well and they're reasonable priced. I'd definitely visit again for beer and bar food!
(3)Dawn B.
Can I give 3 1/2 for this one? The food was average, but the service was amazing. The waitress was kind enough to take my credit card not once, but twice so I could surprise my boyfriend's parents by paying for dinner. She was subtle in her motions and even did an under the table pass. The restaurant food was reasonably priced and the soup was a nice touch as a side to the meal. Wish they would have laid off the salt though... it was a little bit over done. As for my main dish, the crab cake was well cooked, but the bread it was served in was tasteless and was not well paired with the delicious crab cake.
(4)Rob R.
Never disappointed by the Margherita pizza, cooked in their fantastic pizza oven and large enough that I guaranteed to have seconds the next day.
(5)George O.
Be Aware: they do not fill growlers from other brewers here. The growlers they sell are the expensive kind with aluminum handles ($15) as opposed to the common cider jugs ($2).
(1)Vik S.
What every decent brewery should have, this place has it. Choice of beer suited to every palate, food suited to every palate, friendly servers and decent prices. One of my favorite places to stop over whenever I'm in the area. A definite 4 star due to one reason only, their beer needs more flavor compared to other microbreweries but, don't let that deter you from this 'hole in the wall' of an awesome place!
(4)Lauren T.
Menu has a nice variety, something for everyone. Amazing pizza w pesto, goat cheese, and balsamic! Normal pizzas too. Great beer of course. Outdoor, indoor seating, and a large bar area too.
(5)Jason H.
Give this place 3 stars because the beer was good. Went there with my family from out of town because I heard it was good. Got the burger, which was not cooked right and the fries were cold. Could not find our waiter so I ate the food as is. To top it off we sat outside on the patio and could smell nothing but the trash can next to our table. Did I mention the beer was good? May still give them another chance, but there are a lot of good places downtown.
(3)Marlene B.
Good selection of beer at a good price. Loved the oatmeal stout! The fried pickles are to die for! Next time I will order my own fried pickles instead of sharing them! I gave 4 stars because I ordered a medium well burger and it came out medium rarek however, the waiter was great about taking it back to the kitchen to get it cooked more. A good restaurant overall.
(4)Shruti M.
you really can't beat their happy hour beer prices. This is a typical local pub environment. You get good beer for a cheap price during happy hour (2.52/draft). While i do wish they had some happy hour appetizer specials, the beer prices make up for that. The service was great, our waitress was friendly and very attentive. we didn't have any of the entrees, but would recommend the jalapeno pretzel, the nachos, and the bacon wrapped jalapenos. Overall, I'd recommend this place for anyone who just wants to chill, enjoy some beers, and relax.
(4)Karen S.
We came early on a Saturday night so we got a seat on the back patio (really just a converted alley space next to a parking garage) right away. We weren't shaded by the building so as the sun set, it really got in our eyes. The food was decent: I got the crab cake, which came with corn, mashed potatoes and I swapped out the asparagus for a squash medley. It was good, but there were so many bits of shell in my crab cake! I picked out five or six, and it's not a big crab cake to start with. My boyfriend got the pulled pork sandwich, which he enjoyed, and the shoestring fries are really good. He also had the beer sampler, which for $8 had generous portions. The beers were interesting-- he got a mix of their usual and seasonal ones, including a blueberry beer that tasted strongly of blueberry. It's right in downtown Frederick so you've got a great opportunity to walk around and see all the local shops before or after dinner.
(3)Natalie B.
This place is my favorite place for bar food in Frederick. The appetizers are quite delicious and they have an interesting selection. The pizza fired up in their pizza oven are delicious! The service is good, if a bit slow. Also, you can bring your dog with you out on the patio in the warmer months. Great food, great beer, and they allow your best friend?! What's not to love?
(4)Orlangela A.
She said..."Got the house salad and crab dip. The crab dip didn't look like it had any crab in it. It tasted more like cream cheese dip. Not good for $11. And it came with chips, like chips and salsa? Little confused about that...normally crab dip comes with a baguette or bread or pretzel. The house salad was not that good either, couple pieces of lettuce, onions and two tomatoes with watery ranch dressing. Probably wouldn't come back here to eat. I think people come here just for the bar." He said..."I got the southern fried pickles and house salad. The pickles said they come with a "ranch tomato aioli" I'll admit that the dipping sauce was good, but tomato aioli was absent. The pickles were legit and I would get them again, the salad had very basic items. I assume it is hard to deep fry pickles cut length wise but the chef did a good job, they were crunchy and not overcooked."
(2)Darius M.
Beer isn't that great. The food is good. Pizzas are a specialty. It would be a more frequent stop for me if they added a couple of "guest" taps featuring quality micros that they don't brew themselves; ie russian imperial stout.
(4)Candice S.
Yummy bloody Mary's & great bar food! The fried pickles are amazing, but beware the bacon wrapped jalapeño! They are SO incredibly hot. I love spicy food and I couldn't handle them! Nice atmosphere, fast service.. but could be more polite. We'll definitely be back but pray for a friendly waitress :)
(4)Brittany A.
Went to this place last night and it's just as it's previous average says it is.... A-OK. The place is huge. Large bar area, two patios. They had live music on the patio which was nice. I would have loved to sit on the patio but because of the saturday night wait, we opted for first available. The inside has clearly not been remodeled since it was built. Definitely old 90's decor. FOOD was okay. My husband loved his spicy trout dish. The kids pizza looked appetizing enough. My daughter's sweet potato fries looked pretty limp and sad at first but do not be fooled! They were still pretty crispy. Our pupusas were good! My chicken caesar was....... a chicken caesar. Pretty normal. The soups, though? No, no, no. I got the tomato bisque because I am a HUGE tomato bisque lover. I still get shivers when I think of the 2 bites I took. It was an unappetizing light orange color with the texture of mealy tomatoes. It tasted like dirty dish water. No salt, super watery. Just, no. The french onion wasn't much better but edible. I highly doubt it is house made. Really salty. The portions are tiny as well. They brought out the "bowl" of soup and I had to ask if they had accidentally brought out a cup. Very tiny, especially for $7. Overall, really disappointed with the soup. Especially since that's what I had ordered for my main course. SERVICE was okay. Our waitress was a bit awkward. But it takes all kinds, I guess. She didn't write anything down and forgot my soup the first go around as well as forgetting that I had asked for no croutons on my salad. She was pretty responsive to our requests though, which is always nice. Especially with kids who were sending her back and forth for drinks, bleu cheese to dip pizza in, ranch, etc. My husband loved the beer, though. Under $4 for a great beer? We never see that. Overall I think this place is pricey for the atmosphere and the food quality. We had an A-OK time. I don't think we'll go again because of the prices but with a large group for drinks and apps? Sure!
(3)Leah P.
Tried their beer at the Alive at Five event and really enjoyed it. I'm not a big beer drinker, but I enjoyed the two beers that I did have. Husband and I went here after the event, excited to try the local hot spot that we've had people recommend to us, as we're new residents of Frederick. I was unimpressed with the hostesses. I felt like they were not very friendly or courteous. They asked us if we were open to sitting in the bar and we said yes, then they told us to go see if anything was open and if not we could come back and they would get us a table. Isn't that the hostess's job? I'm big on customer service and the overall demeanor of the two girls up front, plus this, really turned me off. The bar is a beautiful area with the big windows, but when we turned the corner to sit in the dining area, we were very unimpressed. The atmosphere felt very cramped and the decor felt like you were eating in a Perkins. For such a neat building and beautiful bar area, we were disappointed with the dining area. It was a busy night for them so, service was a little slow. We found ourselves waiting for quite some time to order, for our food, to get our check, and then to pay our check. The waitress was fairly friendly, though. The food was tasty. We enjoyed the pulled pork sandwich and a small pizza. Both dishes were very tasty and generously sized portions for the price. I give the food a higher rating than the overall rating. We'll be back, but next time we will be sure to sit on the patio or in the bar!
(3)Chris W.
I wish I could give a zero star rating. In reality, the service is great and the food is good, but we had pretty much the worst experience possible when trying to have a nice evening out with friends. We had a large group, and when we were seated, half of our group was held up, and a manager by the name of Brian decided that he should call one of our party an asshole straight to her face. Just because we have an unusually large group that makes us assholes and we shouldn't ask him for any help because he is absolutely against customer service. Usually managers should be all about alleviating bad situations. Instead, Brian thought that the best course of action was to be completely unprofessional in seating a wedding party, and to accost a member of our party for no apparent reason. Needless to say, we will never visit this establishment again due to Brian's horrible people skills and unprofessional conduct. Despite the horrible management, the server named Jordan was extremely pleasant and tried everything she could to make our experience as enjoyable as possible.
(1)Cindy A.
Went on a Saturday for dinner (in March) and it was packed. We had reservations for 9 people, for 6Pm. They sat us at 6:15pm. Ehh not so bad. The group before us just didn't want to leave. It was a great spot with a nice view of street in front (the back room looked a little uninviting with its no windows and such.) I got what the waiter recommended, which was great. (Shrimp & lobster over polenta - I think it was a special.) I was disappointed with the lack of better-for-you side dishes, especially for kids. Both my kids ordered the pizza, but both ended up with fries as a side b/c they had no other good options. Wah. Really? Some restaurants have great options for kids. This is not one of those places.
(3)Robert H.
I really liked the quality of service here, everyone from the greeters to the servers were friendly and attentive. They brew their own beer and offer flights so you can try a wide variety. I will definitely be back here next time I'm around the Frederick area (preferably when I'm not the designated driver!).
(4)Devonshire B.
Like Yelp says: "Meh. I've experienced better."
(2)Adam P.
If your looking for a great meal Brewers Alley has it. The service was wonderful from the time we walked in until the time we left. I had my family along with some friends and the staff was very helpful and accommodating. We had the popcorn shrimp appetizer which was great and then for dinner we had the fish and chips and the meatloaf with cheddar whipped mashed potatoes and green beans. Also they have a great kids meal that should appeal to most young ones. 5 stars.
(5)Mehmed M.
Meh. Food is way overpriced for the quality. Quite frankly the food tasted like it came from the back of a Sysco truck and was heated up with little to no added spice. But... the price ($20 for entrees) tells me they use gourment ingredients. I think my tastebuds know the difference. I didn't get any beers, nor did I hang out at the bar. Maybe this is a great place to meet for a drink - but for dinner? no way. Too many better alternatives a stone's throw away to ever eat here again.
(2)Robin S.
This is a good place for lunch. I had one of the specials: ham & cheese (not as simple as it sounds) and potato salad. Potato salad was average (Gram ruined me cause no one can touch her's). The ham & cheese was very good, piled high & good bread. The atmosphere was nice. Good service, good recommendations. A solid 3-star restaurant.
(3)Daniel A.
*Banquet Review* I have to say that the atmosphere, food, and bar selections are great for the price. Highly recommend them for a company dinner, rehersal dinner, etc. Had a great experience. Jackie the coordinator was easy to work with.
(5)Andrew M.
Great atmosphere, very tasty house brewed beers. I had the Oktoberfest which has become one of my favorite seasonals - was not expecting that! The sampler is a steal at $7 for a pick 6 of their microbrews. Didn't get any food this time but the smells wafted delectably through the bar/restaurant air. Looked good too! But go for the beers, at the least.
(4)Robin M.
Atmosphere was your average pub, comfortably packed with people enjoying themselves and their food. My Caesar salad was okay and I got the "fish and chips" which were not bad. Their French fries are amazing tho. Good service and decent atmosphere. Nice pub for Frederick.
(3)Tim U.
Visited while in town in business. Said they had wifi internet and it didn't work upon arrival. Waitress mentioned it was common for it not to work. Good fish and chips although the price was a bit high at $15, even during Happy Hour. Not convinced to come back.
(3)Ashley C.
My family had lunch at Brewer's Alley today for my niece's birthday, and I could not have been more impressed. They had an extensive gluten free menu, and were willing to modify most items on the menu to be gluten free, even going as far as pan frying their hand-cut fries to avoid cross-contamination issues. Our server was so helpful and attentive, and manager Brian's concern for accommodating my celiac diet went above and beyond what I expected. Oh, and the handcut fries and fish tacos were fantastic, too!
(5)William F.
We stopped here today for some beer and bar food, and left rather disappointed. The food was poor, and the service was worse. In the past, we always liked this place, so we were rather surprised.
(1)Dana Z.
I've been here a few times for late night in the bar area which has always been just ok... sometimes a little too crowded and loud for what it is. Definitely not one of the first places I would pick downtown to go, but has always been a solid place to go. Went back just recently for dinner. The service as mentioned in other reviews is very friendly. I do have to say they totally screwed up our table's order though. They cooked one person's steak wrong, they forgot to bring out another person's soup, and they brought me the entirely wrong pizza. Still, they worked to fix all the problems so it wasn't that bad. Just had an off night maybe. As for the food, it's good but not great. They do have a pretty big menu with a big selection. If anything, I would like to see more salads on the menu. They were all pretty boring. Not the greatest place downtown, but it does the job.
(3)Ignacio S.
I have been there several times in the last six or seven years. It used to have a shorter menu when they made the brews in-house. Every beer that I have ever had there was at least good. Most of them are very good, and some of them, such as their stout, are fantastic. The food menu is hit or miss, with more misses than hits. Their fries are always good, but most of the rest can be either pretty good or pretty bad, sometimes in the same menu item. Case in point, our last visit. We had a calamari appetizer. The outside is golden, crispy, light, and delicious, but the squid itself was chewy, close to rubbery. In the same visit, I had the reuben and I was disappointed. Very little, almost flavorless sauerkraut, a lot of not very good pastrami, and a lot, a lot, a lot of fat on the bread. My wife had the open face turkey sandwich. The turkey was good, but the gravy tasted like it came from some evil powder, with a strong flavor that reminded us of those soups that come in and envelope. The spinach with garlic adn bacon that was the side dish was excellent. So, to summarize, go just for the beer because the food, with a few exceptions, is average at best. There are several places with much better food within a couple hundred yards.
(3)Jack R.
Is the food as good as some of the nearby restaurants? Not quite, but it's close enough, and the prices are better than all of its high-quality neighbors. But the beer. Oh goodness the beer. Unfortunately Brewer's hasn't found a way to sustain a bar population most nights, so this is not going to be your final destination. However, should you be looking to go out downtown, you should start here 100 out of 100 times. Their home-brewed pints are delicious enough to be a premium price, but they still charge under $4 per pint. I can't get a pint of Yuengling at half the bars I go to for $4. The space in the bar used to be a problem. Two years ago the bar was either too dead to enjoy, or full enough that navigation was troublesome. Then they cleared out the tanks and opened up the lobby and boom, problem gone! As a bar, Brewer's needs to figure out how to reach critical mass on nights that aren't Fridays or Saturdays. Once it does that, there will be no reason to go to other bars in Frederick.
(5)Alicia K.
Food and atmosphere were FANTASTIC. I ordered the turkey burger. It was great. The service was extremely slow, however. We were forgotten many times, which was frustrating.
(4)Todd M.
Decent food, but could not find a beer that suited me at all. The beers are lacking in depth and flavor in my opinion. The better beers on tap were from Monacacy brewing. The food was lackluster and average at best. There are a lot better beers and food places in town. It is a good place to watch events though with all the TV's and is a great space. Wish they could up their game a bit.
(2)Jake W.
Great place for Sunday drinks and appetizers while watching the game. My buddy and I got the beer sampler-6 (5oz pour) beers of your choosing for 8 bucks, and the bacon wrapped jalapeños. The jalapeños were amazing. Most of the beer was alright with the exception of the rye pale ale and the stout . Highly recommended for Sunday football.
(4)Keith W.
Great location but fell short in a quality meal. I ordered the mushroom burger (medium rare) and it came out medium with little to no flavor. It is advertised as a 1/2lb burger and it was work like 1/4lbs. The cole slaw was pretty good and the overall service was excellent. At my table the chicken wings and pizza meat monster received very good reviews, as well as the black bean burger. The price was average which goes along with the entire theme of Brewer's Alley. If you are looking for average food in a decent location then this is your place. I would recommend to try somewhere else first though.
(3)Connie M.
Second time I ate here and this time was pretty bad. The beer was flat so we had to send it back (really, this is a brewery!). We ordered sandwiches which were pretty bad and had no taste served with cold fries. I could understand some slippage if the place was packed, but half the restaurant was empty. I won't be returning.
(2)Ginny S.
25 Aug 2012 5:30 PM Accessibility :Right off Market Street and in the middle of everything! How can you miss it! :) It is also right in front of the parking Garage so if you cannot get parking on the street the Parking Garage is close by! 5 Stars for this location! Customer Service: We were greeted as soon as we entered by really friendly smiles. Our Waiter, Tom U. What a GREAT Guy! Funny and very passionate about the Beers. Hello gave us the entire run down and brought us a couple of samples. Hello brought a couple of kinds to taste. Checked on us frequently. Made some great recommendations for dinner and they did not let us down! We would definitely look for Tom next time and you should too. Definitely a 5 Star Customer Service for this place and visit! Menu: Wow - what is not on the menu! The Chef sure has things right here. Food - I had the Classic Alley Hamburger, Crispy Tobacco Onions and with French Fries. This is a truly wonderful and just one of the best I have had! Wow. If you love a Great Hamburger, get one here! Nice French Fries small slivers and crispy. Just the way I like them. I was not too big of the Onion slivers, but my Husband loved them! So my meal was a definite 5 Stars. My husband had the Fish and Chips, with Cole slaw. The Fish was good, but not a meal He would get again. They gave you one pretty large piece and was not greasy. So it "was good". He did love the French Fries! 3 Stars for him. We were with my Sister and her Husband so we thought we would also get a Desert - We got the very very light Boston Creme Pie. This was really a great way to end the meal. This was really good 5 Stars. My Sister and Husband had Vanilla Ice Cream. I will get this next time! WOW. 5 Stars for that. Beers - How could we come here and not have one of their famous Brewhouse creations! We had - Hefe-Weizen (My personal favorite!) (Perennial Seasonal Beer) A light Weizen beer. This was a great Beer! Kolsch (Year round) A little bitter but has a nice aroma. You cannot go wrong with either of these beers if you normally do not drink fancy Beers. 5 Stars for both of these. Question: Would we come back here again? DEFINITELY! Again and Again. We would highly recommend going to this great place. You will not be disappointed!!
(5)Laura C.
Great food, generous portions, and beers brewed in-house. We had a salad and the conch chowder, plus a cheeseburger and kolsch-battered fish. The fish was very good, but the batter was a little soggy right next to the fish. The chowder was delicious, but some folks might think it had too much black pepper (not me!). Burger and fries were great. We also got a flight of their beers, at a very cheap $8 for six 5 oz glasses.
(4)K C G.
1st time here. Great experience, fantastic food. Service was outstanding. My boyfriend got the blackened scallops special and said it was the best he ever had.
(4)Cully R.
Visited on Christmas Eve with a part of five. We were seated at a table barely large enough for four but they added an extra chair. I guess that made it okay. Appetizers were good. French onion soup was only warm, not hot. Entrees were average. Disappointing since we had eaten there several times a few years back and were very impressed. Food was served very quickly but wait staff didn't check back for drink refills until meal was finished. When they did check back we had to ask them twice to simply remove our empty dishes. There are a lot of outstanding restaurants in the area. We probably will NOT be returning to Brewers any time soon. Merry Christmas!
(2)Tom M.
I heard from family and friends that Frederick was really trying to liven up their downtown so on our way back to Hagerstown from DC, we decided to give it a try. Anything is better than Hagerstown's lame attempts. There weren't really a whole lot of options downtown that we could see in the dark but after a few passes on Patrick Street, we decided on Brewer's Alley. The front end of the place is most like a bar. It was crowded. noisy and annoying so the faster we could make our way through that area into the dining room, the better. When we got there however, we found ourselves wanting to be back in the bar, minus the throngs of people and the noise. The decor was unimaginative and boring, painted walls with photos and pictures that just didn't work. There was no sense of privacy in the dining room and the tables were crowded together. The lighting was so bright that I wished I had brought my sunglasses. By comparison, this place would pale next to micro breweries in Portland. The vibe just wasn't there. The fact that the "bosses" hovered obviously because there was no place for them to be was annoying, as well. The other thing I found really annoying was a lack of healthy options on the menu and I ended up having an entree salad and sweet potato fries. No meatless dishes or gluten-free options. Restaurants now days would do well to offer those things as more people become gluten intolerant or in other ways, conscious of things they put in their mouth. My partner said his mac and cheese was very good. Next time we're in the area, we'll probably look for something else. Nice try Brewer's Alley but you just missed the mark.
(2)Sarah M.
I having been eating at Brewers Alley for the 6 years and have slowly seen a huge decline in the past 2 years. This used to be our families "hot spot" to go when people came to town, but after a multiple bad experiences we stopped taking people there due to poor food quality, anything besides the pizza is a HUGE disappointment. Servers in the bar area are down right offensive and obscenely rude, I was suckered in to going last Saturday night and the waitress in the bar area offended our whole group of 9 repeatedly and we ended up leaving without ordering food because of her attitude. This was once a landmark in Frederick and sadly has gone down hill very fast. If you do decide to go, stick to the pizza, stay away from the bar, and try the beer...its pretty good.
(1)Richard M.
My wife and I went to brewers alley last weekend for the first time in years for me, she had never been. It was excellent. Got the beer sampler, fried pickles were best we ever had. Their IPA's are awesome. Service was top notch, our entrees were great, try the fish and chips, everything was reasonably priced. We cant wait to go again.
(5)Shawn F.
What fantastic service, beer, and food! We were dining on the patio with our Labrador and a rain storm hit. The staff moved us into the vestibule with the dog and served us there. Another couple was there with their two large dogs and were also set up to dine with dogs. It was a great evening enjoyed by humans and the dogs! Thanks!!
(5)Allison D.
I wouldn't say that Brewer's Alley is my favorite restaurant in Frederick, but it's certainly the restaurant that I find myself at most often. The greatest thing about it (besides the beer, which I'll get to in a moment) is that it's really like four restaurants in one, depending on your mood and preference. My favorite part is the bar; not just because it's "the bar", but because it has a dark and cozy pub feeling. If you're lucky enough to snag a table, you can hang out for several hours (hopefully enjoying their fabulous beer). Unfortunately, unless you get there early, you're not likely to find a table on the weekend. There is a more romantic upstairs area that is reserved for special occasion "course" dinners and private parties. The side dining room is a little less romantic/intimate, but still OK and I really don't like the back dining room at all. It's brightly lit and open and I always feel like I'm on display. They also have a patio with about ten tables but, unless you get there early, you're probably going to wait for a loooong time to sit out there. The food is good; some of it is fantastic and some of it makes you wonder what they were thinking. You can spend as much or as little as you want on food since they have everything from good-sized appetizers that could make a small meal to salads and sandwiches to full entrees. Their menu changes pretty regularly, so there are always new things to try. I'm adding this to my "Frederick Pizza Joints" list because I think they have the best pizza in Frederick. Some of the combinations of toppings are great and some belong in that what were they thinking category, but they are wood fired and awesome ( yelp.com/biz_photos/-9au… ). But, like I said before, the best thing about Brewer's Alley is the beer. Their oatmeal stout is the best I've ever had; so black that no light penetrates it. They have a beer sampler, so you can try any that you're not familiar with. They have about eight beers that are always available (including oatmeal stout) as well as several rotating seasonals. Usually there are about 12-14 beers to choose from. Their servers are great; many of them have been there since we first moved to Frederick in 2001...and extra special kudos to them for being open during Snowmageddon. They fed us and kept us drunk throughout the entire ordeal.
(4)Sunny C.
Their oatmeal stout is the best stout I've had so far. Better than Guinness. Plenty of outdoor seating. Their pear pastry with cinnamon ice cream (limited time special) was divine. Plaintain mahi was creative and paired nicely with the spinach and potatoes. I had an enjoyable dining experience.
(4)Susan S.
I'll be brief. This used to be a favorite restaurant. Now, I'll only eat pizza there. It's excellent, usually. Stay away from the more unorthodox combos- they promise big flavors and end up disappointing. I like the staff and bartenders. Atmosphere is good, too. Beer is excellent. I don't know when they started going downhill, but several changes of chefs in the past 20 years have left them near the bottom of the barrel. I'll pay for good food- but, they've run out of chances. How can you screw up a hamburger or pizza? Other than that, we don't eat there anymore.
(2)Pengilicious E.
I've been here three times and always a disappointment! They have wide selections of draft. If you're thinking of having dinner then go somewhere else first then come here after dinner for drinks.
(2)Jojo S.
The first two times i came to Brewer's Alley i thought people who complained about the food were crazy. My sandwiches were great, the beer was very good and you could sit outside. Service was a bit on a slow side, but pleasant enough. Sadly, that's where is stopped. In the next 5 visits i've seen food vary from poor to completely inedible. Why did i keep coming back against my better judgment? Propelled by memories of my first-time pleasant experience , and of course for the beer and outside sitting. However, after the last time, which was particularly bad, i'm done. Looks like they have some major kitchen management problems. No quality control seems to exist, and the waiters don't even look at the dishes they are brining (trust me, you just have to look at some of them to know better then to serve them). The waiters don't seem to be particularly surprised or apologetic when the food gets sent back. I guess it's something they got used to. Of course, because the service is so slow you are likely to not have another shot at your order. On the up side, they do credit you for dishes without question. Oh, and don't get excited when you see they have the wood pizza oven. They don't really know how to do it justice. At best, your pizza will be mediocre. Sorry, not even remotely up to par. What a shame, too, as the ingredients seem fine (before they get ruined by the kitchen that is). Get a drink and enjoy the outside, but don't count on having dinner there.
(2)H B.
I can not for the life of me figure out how this place is always packed! I have been here 3 times and it has been terrible 3 times. Once I ate and had a few beers at happy hour and sat in the bar area- food was bad, beer was ok. So all in all, it wasn't worth the happy hour price. Second time we tried it for dinner. We even brought friends. 4 of us had burgers and 4 of us were sick after eating them. Not awesome. I feel worse for my friends because they had to drive back to DC after that! And the 3rd time we went with kids because it was open and was the only kid friendly place that had a table. It took us forever to get our food. Not going back. With so many great restaurants in Frederick- why would we!
(1)Kimba G.
Now that I have been there a few times I have a good idea of the quality. They just remolded and changed a number of things. The place looks great! Love their Pulled Pork Sandwich, Pot Roast, Bread Pudding, etc. Everything I have had as been great! The service is good and it is consistent in the quality of food it services.
(3)Hillary B.
I keep trying this place, the staff is always so nice, it's clean, and the beer is good but I have yet to eat a decent meal here. So disappointing. I have eaten here five times and each time try a different menu item. All taste-free, every time. But everyone is so nice.
(2)Jeff Z.
Very good and a nice atmosphere. I had the fish tacos and they were delicious! I would have given them four stars but the $5 salad was rather small.
(3)Katie H.
Unfortunately I had a REALLY bad experience here on Sunday November 10th. We showed up at 2 15 pm and there were 7 of us - 3 kids, 4 adults. When the beers were to be ordered, almost every one that our party asked for was OUT OF STOCK. The two beer drinkers settled for an IPA rather than the lagers they wanted originally. Appetizers were not so good - pork taquitos were greasy; crab dip tasted like 99% cheese with possibly ONE piece of crab meat :(. We waited more than 40 minutes for our food and when it arrived only two people were happy with their meals (kids). My soup of the day was out and I was not notified until after my meal was brought out (food arrived but no Portuguese sausage stew.... when my server came by, she seemed flustered. The woman who was bringing food out said they were out. I asked why I was being informed only now about it and not when my order was taken). My dad's chicken was bland and tasted like it had been cooked ages ago and just warmed up as an afterthought. My mom's mussels had one drop of sauce on it. My boyfriend's burger - ordered Medium Rare was definitely more Rare than he wanted it to be. Sad to say I do not think we will be coming back here, especially since we did not want to leave a tip due to the lack of beer selections, the wait for the food and the quality of the food. We were charged almost $25 in gratuity which was a rip off considering the quality of the food.
(1)Eric E.
Not much in life I like better than a good brew pub, so I wish Brewer's Alley tried just a little harder. The food is pretty good, but several nearby joints are better. The beers are pretty good, but nothing really stands out. The service is good, the ambiance is good, and the crowd is pleasant. I will surely be back, but it seems they are coasting a bit because their downtown Market Street location is SWEET. Too bad.
(3)Briana Leigh A.
what was ordered: (app) stuffed jalapenos (my) oatmeal stout beer pot roast w/ cheddar mash & celery root (special) (his) resinator beer wings french onion soup (dessert) blueberry crumble (sepcial) first of all, our beers were amazing and less than $4. you'll get five stars regardless. all of the food was delicious. i have absolutely no complaints. appetizer was tasty. his wings were crispy and had the perfect amount of sauce. his soup was perfect. great flavor and cheese was exactly how it should be - melted. (so often you order french onion soup, it comes out and you're sitting there wondering.. what the hell is this shit?) well, this was the kind of french onion soup you dream about. because the pot roast was on the special menu, it was a must try. i've tried stews and roasts from different restaurants that feature these items on their permanent menu and unfortunately, it's never cooked long enough. how do you charge $16+ and not properly.. "stew" it? there's nothing SPECIAL about it. but this was tender, flavorful and warming. delicious. i shared it with him because he made a very poor decision only getting wings and a soup. because the food was so surprisingly good, we ordered the dessert on the special menu. blueberry crumble was warm and full of blueberries. crust was crispy and added a great balance to the dish. our waitress was very sweet and attentive. will be returning and will be hitting the treadmill or Insanity. downtown Frederick has some great eats.
(5)Jeff S.
Went here with my brother to enjoy some fine brews and get a bite to eat. We ended up skipping the food and went straight to the beer. We grabbed a sampler plate, 6 beers handpicked by our bartender - asked her to pick her favorite. We ended up trying everything they had. No real standouts, although their IPA and Dopplebock were very solid. They had one of those bourbon cask-aged brews...it tasted like it belonged in a tumbler topped off with Coke - not necessarily a bad thing, just not my cup-O-tea. The bar area was pretty nice. Definitely a place for beer geeks to congregate in the Frederick area. I would probably come here again if in that part of town, but I will definitely have to give the kitchen a try for a more complete review.
(3)Michael Z.
Got the special of the day. The fish was good, a little small in portion but it was delicious.
(4)Charlie B.
Great food, beer and service. Had the BBQ sandwich, and tried the andouille pizza, both were awesome. Service was really good also, responsive and friendly at all times. Highly recommend going for anything from HH to a formal dinner. Easy to rate this one... 5 stars.
(5)Lily B.
Perfect upscale twist to classic bar food and beer brewed on site. Enjoy fried pickles and Mac n cheese bites. Gluten free beer should be on the menu soon. A good go-to bar.
(3)Brigette K.
The beer and bar atmosphere is great! This building is amazing. Gets kinda busy though. Wednesday is Cajun Night. Opera House IPA is amazing (when they have it!)
(4)Ryan P.
Fourth or fifth time here and it seems to be getting more average (read "worse") every time. The fried, Panko breaded dill spears were very good, but the caesar salad was an overpriced joke and the service was a bit slow given a mostly empty dining room. I've had nearly great food here in the past, so here's to hoping this downward trend ends soon. I will always applaud Brewer's Alley for their beer selection and great location.
(2)Tom W.
My wife and I stopped here for some light appetizers and a brew. With all of the choices in Frederick, we should have found another place. First, I really wanted to like the Alley so maybe my expectations were a little high. We both ordered the 1634 pint. Although $3.67 is cheap for a pint, this beer is not good. It's a little watery and doesn't have the proper head. I can't speak to the other beers they brew since we didn't have them. We ordered the Shrimp and Avocado Timbale. This is good but c'mon, it's a few shrimp, a few pieces of avocado, some mayo, and lemon juice...for 11 bucks. Oh wait, I forgot, it has a toasted piece of bread with it. It's still 11 bucks and that's crazy. We also had the Poblano and Crab dip. This came with broken corn chips that were from a giant bag. Although the dip was ok, you could tell it was mostly sour cream. Again, this app is 11 bucks. More craziness. So 2 pints and 2 apps for $31.32. I know Frederick can be a little pricey but this is a little on the high side. Probably will be back at some time just because we love breweries but this place is no longer on the "must go" list.
(2)Matthew R.
This place is completely underwhelming for a number of reasons. First, my fiancé and I arrived and were told the wait would be about 15 to 20 minutes. No big deal. As we waited, a few other groups came in. The couple immediately after us were told 20-30 minutes. The party after them were told 30-45 minutes. After we waited about 30 minutes, the couple that came in after us were seated leaving us still waiting. My fiancé shot the hostess a glare and it was then she realized she forgot about us. The hostess made it out like our vibrating/blinky thingy was not working even though it clearly was. We were then seated outdoors which was fairly pleasant. With the exception of the Harley Davidson that went roaring by, interrupting everyone's quiet evening. I couldn't help but think of the South Park episode dealing with exactly that same scenario. But then things started going back down hill again. We ordered and waited over 45 minutes for our meals to arrive. Meaning that we were now about an hour and 15 minutes after our initial arrival. My fiancé's food was cool or luke warm at best. Mine was lacking in flavor. The only part of the meal that was any good was the sweet potato fries. They were truly excellent and the only reason this place didn't get only 1 star from me. Even the beer at this brewery was unimpressive. My last reason for disliking this place is an aspect of which the brewery does not have complete control, the clientele. Excuse the generalization, but this place was packed with two types of people, cougars and hipsters. My fiancé and I definitely were out of place. To generalize ourselves, we showed up in a car that would have us labeled as yuppies, BMW M3 convertible, and our attire had us labeled as slobs, jeans and t-shirts. We were on a one day road trip and this was nearing the end of it. Hence the car and attire. Yuppie slobs? Is there such a thing? I guess there is now. Regardless, my point is if you are a hipster, then this place is for you. If you are a cougar on the prowl for a hipster, then this will be your heaven on earth. If you are yuppie slobs like us, then go somewhere else.
(2)Anthony W.
I visited this spot twice and have been satisfied on both occasions. On my first visit I ordered an Alley Burger I believe it was to satisfying results. I came back with family on the second trip and had the Caribbean Chicken with Mango Salsa which I thought was great. My woman got the surf and turf and the crab-cake. I also would recommend the grilled tilapia which we also thought was pretty good.
(5)Jenn C.
I recently went to a wedding here on the 2nd floor. The place is gorgeous with lots of charm. I enjoyed the food - I had grilled chicken marsala with mashed potatos, which was excellent. I tried the steak, which was also very good, and my sister had the crab cake which she enjoyed very much. The staff were pleasant, and I never got the feeling of being rushed. All in all, a great experience!
(4)Colleen F.
Brewer's Ally is a staple in my family. They have good beer, and a creative menu. A vegetarian can usually find something interesting to eat, although less so than in previous years. The restaurant is kid friendly. The cheese stuffed pretzel with ranch dressing is a must.
(4)Chef A.
For my last visit, I had lunch with a Japanese photographer friend of mine. We caught up on old times and BS'ed over the future of Leica cameras, Japan's world cup football match, and why people who watch bowling on TV are idiots. He had a crab cake, and I just had a faux Guinness which I did not care for. Having had perfect pints in Dublin, it's a bit hard to drink an American Stout. On a trip prior however I had a pilsner and it was ok. Nothing too special, but I can appreciate the local home brew micro-pubs. Also on the last trip I had a burger, made from buffalo and it was pretty good with no complaints. I like this place to be honest, though it's price point is a slight turn off to me. And the beer was nothing special. Still, it's a ncie place to had a quality meal, and BS with friends.
(3)Thomas B.
Favorite spot for locally brewed beer on tap. Great selection of quick eats and entrees. Try the pizzas too. Good stuff. Take a growler home with you after it is said and done and keep the party going at home.
(4)Kjirsten K.
I was in Frederick for one week and out of all the restaurants I tried, this was the best. The crab cake with potato puree and asparagus was delicious and so was the beer. The restaurant is large with plenty of seating, a bar area, and a very nice outdoor patio. My biggest regret is not making it back here one more time before I left. See you next time Brewer's Alley!
(5)Amanda C.
Delicious food and beer. I highly recommend the Riot Rye and the lamb burger. Also great service: we had to wait quite a while on a First Saturday, and they compd us a round.
(5)Hannah M.
We had dinner at Brewer's Thursday night for Lobster Night. Little did we know, it was also NY Sirloin night. My daughter had lobster. The rest of us had the steak. All of it was outstanding. We were surprised that we didn't get steak knives but we didn't need them. The steaks were so tender. The only minor complaint I have is the drinks weren't refilled unless we requested. But they were very busy. Still a pleasant evening out.
(4)Karin S.
Beer good, but that's about it. Burgers were ok, but appetizers and fries were typical greasy, tasteless, fried bar food. A friend with us actually got a little sick (nausea)about an hour after eating there. Place was kind of musty. Not the upbeat, fun place we expected. Blah.
(2)Johnny L.
Excellent place! Sometimes service is a little slow for lunch on weekends, but the food is delicious and the staff are personable, friendly, and fun. I recommend the Reubens, they make their own corned beef and it's phenomenal. And the apple and goat cheese pizza is fantastic.
(4)Amy A.
The food is good and they will make any adjustments or accommodations you want/need for dietary purposes. The wait staff is very nice and tastes everything so they know what to recommend. I am not a beer drinker but everyone I have went with loves their beer. Highly recommend and my children also like it eat there.
(5)Nicole A.
I really want to be able to leave a better review. I love sitting outside here and the beer is good. The issue is the only thing here that is consistently decent is the pizza. I have been twice very recently and sat on the puppy patio the most recent visit being last night. The first time I got fish and chips and the fish was really bad. It had an off fishy smell to it and it had obviously been sitting because it was very soggy. It just wasn't edible. The server disappeared after we got our food but if he hadn't I would have sent it back for something else. By the time he came back my husband was done eating so I didn't bother but only could eat the fries. I told him about the issue but he shrugged it off and said they were busy. Last night I got the chicken sandwich. The chicken was good, issue is they forgot ALL toppings and sauce. I got the server to bring me toppings on the side later to add but by the time I got them the sandwich was cold. The manager came out to apologize but honestly I feel like they should have given me something off the bill. He just said to next time order the wrap since it holds the ingredients better. I think not. Also both visits we had serious issues getting drinks refilled. I drink a lot of water I will admit, but the servers just disappear and when one comes out with iced tea and water they only fill for their tables unless you make a large animated effort to flag them down. Both visits we sat with no drinks for a large portion of the time. I would think they would at least make a better effort to refill beer. Not all is bad, both of these times my husband has ordered a pizza and both times it has been very good. The fresh mozzarella is awesome and the pizza gets a great flavor from the wood oven. Also they have very good French fries. Would I go again? Possibly if I was downtown with my dogs and really wanted pizza but I wouldn't get anything other than pizza since they couldn't even get a sandwich right. Because of the issues with drink refills though I'd probably be more likely to hit the golden mile for Il Forno pizza. The service has been much better there.
(2)Michael C.
I was not impressed with their overall services. They have not met my service needs. Their beers were "meh ok" but have had much better beers from other Maryland Micro Brew. The food quality was so-so. I have had better burger and fries from other micro brews in Maryland and other state.
(1)Abigail O.
this is a really fun and classy place in such a cool area. i love how frederick has turned into a destination town (for me, anyway) where you can spend the whole evening going to shops, restaurants and bars, and not have a hellish parking experience. the beers here are good, but as with other reviews, the seasonals are better than the standards... i always find that kind of weird. wouldn't your standards be the ones you did best, instead of just picking one light/pils, one amber, one hoppy, and one dark/porter/stout? i appreciate being well-rounded, but i'd rather have high quality than variation. but i digress. the food here is pretty excellent. mac and cheese was standard (i.e. awesome), pork butt was so good that those of us who didn't get it stole it off the others' plates. service was very good both times i went (once with a large party upstairs, and once with my boyfriend at the bar). i'll definitely be going back when i make it to frederick again!
(4)Jon K.
A solid 4 stars, would have gotten 5 if this review was written a few years ago. First things first, lets get to the beer. This place has excellent beers and they brew them on the premises. I had never thought I would find one of these type of places that does an excellent job on brewing their beer and excellent food. The interior of this place looks half bar and half restaurant. It's in a historic part of Frederick and the building that it's nestled away in might even be a historic building. They have several TV's in the bar area and inside and outside dining areas as well. The only thing that irks me about this place is I have been eating here for several years and I always get the pizzas or the crab cake platter. Well, they used serve two large crab cakes on a platter surrounded by veggies and such (these are fantastic). I noticed a few years ago they started to only serve one and cut down on the portion size (no cut in price though). Anyway, it's not that big of deal I guess because everyone is trying to control costs because of inflation but I come here less often now because of that (there are many fantastic options in this area). By the way, both the pizza and crab cakes are fantastic here. The service here is top notch and we have always been well taken care of by the staff. Give it a try if you're in the Frederick area.....
(4)Matt K.
I lived in downtown Frederick for 2 years, and this place served me well many a time. This place is well worth a visit if you're looking for good beer and pretty good food. They make their own beers and they are pretty tasty. I am a fan of IPA but if you're a coors light (water) guy, then the Kolsch is probably the closest beer to your speed. People rag some of the food here, but you have to know what to get. Pizzas, burgers, wings, nachos, salads are good. They got good wing sauce and a very nice house vinaigrette. Blackened tilapia is very good. Their salmon tends to be a little fishy, and any fancy dish that sounds intricate might be a little risky. The sweet potato fries are a must!! They have rock salt on them and are cooked perfectly!! It can get crowded on the weekends on account of the meat heads that show up. You might see a few popped collars from guys that just got done lifting at Gold's but it isn't all that bad. Happy hours 4-9 on Mondays and Tuesdays! 2.50 house drafts! You gotta love a happy hour that doesn't end at 6. They also have $5 appetizers that go very well with a brew. So go, have a good beer, take home a growler if you find a brew you really like, and don't expect Volt-style panache. The bar area is very warm and comforting due to the hardwood.
(4)Anne M.
Great food and beverage selection. Delicious !!!!! Our party of 5 enjoyed large scrumptious servings delivered promptly. Everything (including the decor and bathroom) was just right. Our server Heather is a wonderful server;RIGHT ON :-D
(5)Nick L.
Not at all impressed. I do have to say the beer was good though. We ordered a small pizza and it took well over 30 minutes to come out. When it finally arrived it was cold and soggy. The server graciously took it back as she should but we were starving and did not want to wait for a new one. We paid the bar tab and headed down the street.
(2)Sher Y.
Pizza was amazing and prices were also on par. I also had the California Pizza. Delicious. yes yes it was.
(4)M F.
I have been to Brewer on quite a few occasions but mainly for drinks. Yesterday a group of us from work decided to have lunch at Brewers... and probably will never go back for lunch, but will continue to visit for happy hours and drinks. We were greeted by the friendly staff but that is where the service stopped. We were a party of 7 and not the only group in the dining room. The wait staff was less than tentative. It took approximately 20 min before our orders were taken, took another 45 min to receive our appetizers another 30 min to receive our lunches. At this point we are up to an hour a half... mind you we were on a lunch from work... upon receiving our food we requested our checks. Steak sandwich was over cooked; the chicken fingers had a hair in it and were sent back. The manager did offer to bring out another steak sandwich and chicken fingers. I'm sorry but after the hair, I was not hungry and no one wanted to wait any longer for food. Due to the time already wasted waiting we also asked for boxes for ALL of our food to go. We were offered 2 free desserts for the wait (O this took another 20 min of a wait). After requesting boxes and our checks, they were not received for another 30 min... An ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!!!! Another complaint was made to the manager and 1/2 of our food was comp'd to us.... Still absolutely horrible service and wait time. I'm not sure what happened or why... but there were other tables of 4+ who came in after our group and left before our group. Still the place was not busy. Funny, there was another table that actually got up to leave and asked for their checks on the way out the door. We did not order anything difficult or that should have taken so long to cook: Margarita Pizza Chicken Salad Sandwich Chicken Fingers Chicken Sandwich Steak Sandwich Mac n cheese Rueben Sandwich Sorry but this shouldn't have taken that long. Horrible visit won't be back for lunch ever!!!!!
(1)Adam O.
Food was good. Prices were reasonable.
(4)Li D.
This is an "okay" brew pub. The beer and the burgers are good. I had the California burger, which was tasty and quite large. The wings (appetizer) was so-so. Service was efficient. We sat in the back room, which was very crowded.
(3)Matt W.
Love this place. The bar area is a little small, but that's standard in downtown Frederick. The restaurant is pretty good, and so is the food. I love the beers that are brewed on site. Pretty low key most of the time, meaning that it's a great place to go if you don't want a band blaring in your ear all night.
(5)Brad B.
The only saving grace was the beer. We ordered Margarita Pizza. Unfortunately, it had so much garlic in the sauce we couldn't eat but a bite or two. They did take it off our bill without us asking though. Place was super snooty on the Saturday evening we were there.
(1)Renee Z.
My family moved to Frederick in 2008. We use to come to Brewery's Alley all the time it was our go to place when we had company. The food was good, the beer was good, and the service was great as well. That was the way it use to be! As in recent visits the service has been poor and wait times terrible! We recently went this weekend as my mother in law and mother were in town we wanted a quick bite well that was a joke. We were sat on the puppy patio which they said there were signs out front that all 3 of us missed that said that. We were not informed of it as well when sat if I would have known I would have gladly sat inside or waited for a spot out front. I saw dogs jumping on tables, staff petting dogs, giving treats, and not for sure if they washed their hands. I was so grossed out! As were my guests. I would have gladly waited or ate inside if we were informed before my daughter received her food. We ate, the food was ok the beer was still good, the server barely came around. We then got our checks we paid and left. Today I looked at my bank statement as I usually do each day. I noticed I was charged 4 separate times! The server apparently swiped my moms bill on my account which they said was a mistake by the waiter (which he never informed me about)they said the charges was returned, which was not reflected as my bank shows refunds. The lady I spoke to who was a manger was rude and condescending about what had just happened instead of making it right! When you go out to eat at a place you expect good service since you are paying for it, well if you are looking for that I would not go here! We will no longer after this visit as it was the straw that broke the camels back!!! I hope brewers alley takes a look at this and looks at their staff and their costumer service practices as they are piss poor at best. I WILL NEVER GO HERE AGAIN! Which is sad since we use to love it.
(1)Susan T.
I spent a lot of time in Frederick, MD recently and this is one of those "go-to" locations. They have an outdoor patio and there are always people waiting for a table. The nachos were good, our waitress was funny and nice. And the beer...we tried a seasonal ale...1649 or something like that...that is made from an old brewers recipe. Although this isn't mentioned on their beer list...it's our favorite and we were told they were going to start brewing this in bottles at the end of the year. You can get "growlers" and "mini kegs" and "kegs" of their ales...just call the brewmasters to find out what is available. The "growlers" stay fresh for 2 weeks. I'm planning to go get some growlers for my trip to Edisto Beach in May I like this beer so much...LOL. I do think you should stick with sandwiches, salads and pizza as far as food...but this place has a regular clientele and is popular. It is a good hang out place...
(4)Victoria Z.
Whether I'm here for lunch or dinner Brewer's has yet to disappoint me as well as everyone else in Frederick so keep that in mind on the weekend! For some reason I am addicted to their sauteed asparagus and their mac n' cheese. I think Brewer's appeals to many because of their homemade ale and their wood oven pizzas. They have a creative selection as well as daily specials. I have yet to get unfriendly waitstaff. I love the feel of this old building, especially when I park in the garage behind it and can smell the food on the way in and check out the stained glass windows.
(4)Katie Y.
Brewers beer and burgers are so incredibly good that whenever I have to travel north from DC, I take Route 270 instead of 95 just so I can pass through Frederick to chow down on a burger, regardless of my level of hunger, and throw back a pint of hand-crafted beer. I've had a few of their other dishes, but really, just stick with the burgers, which are made with local grass-fed beef and accompanied with delicious thin-cut fries. Plan on spending $9 for this burger heaven, and plan on leaving fully satisfied. They advertise on the menu that they source as much as their food as possible from truly local farmers, yet they don't jack up the prices or attempt to be fancy-pants haute-cuisine. This is pub-food done right - tasty but without the grease overload (burgers, reubens, salads, pizzas, etc). Pints of their amazing beer cost UNDER $4 (no, that's not strictly a happy-hour price) and around $10 to fill up a 2-Liter Growler (initial $15 deposit on the oh-so-cool glass growler). Their Oatmeal Stout (6.7% alc.) is incredibly smooth, their Hefeweizen is sweet and slightly tangy, their Nutbrown Ale is delish, and their Maibock (7% alc.) is also Growler-worthy. Trinity Stout is a bit too bitter for me, but great nonetheless. On my last visit, the people next to us at the bar ordered Bud Light, which nearly shot an arrow through my heart. If I owned a car, I would regularly be trekking out here to fill up growlers with this delectable affordable beer - there's no need to drink something like Bud Light when this is around! Sit in the front bar area that is shadowed by the giant beer vats, or the patio if the weather permits - don't bother with the back restaurant area, which is loud and crowded and a bit too sterile as far as atmosphere goes. I would bump up the rating to five stars if the staff was just a little more interested and friendly, rather than apathetic and acting like they're from Philly or B'more. Come on - you're from a small town. You're supposed to be sweet and helpful and stuff - don't shatter this city gal's image of small-town life!
(4)Malarie B.
This is a cute place that always seems to be hoppin'. It's a staple of the area now, and pretty much everyone here will know where and what you are talking about when you bring up this place. This place is owned by the same people who own and run Isabella's and, frankly, it's the weaker of the two. This place is great for families and groups. Lots of space and seating! The food was good, not wonderful but good. And, unfortunately, my beer (the IPA) was almost entirely flat, as was my friend's. Kind of a huge disappointment when going to BREWERS alley, but meh. The service was delightful and I wasn't disappointed with my food, so all in all, I think this is a fine space to check out if you are in the area.
(3)Chris K.
My friend and I went on a week night. We heard their pizza was delicious, not to mention their brews. Service was quick and friendly. We got our pizzas -- gosh I can't remember the names but mine was the ranch chicken and hers was the plain cheese. She got the 1868 (?) beer, and I got the oatmeal stout. Our waitress was friendly and accommodating. We stayed an extra 40 minutes after our meal was over and tipped for that inconvenience. I would definitely recommend this place for its pizzas and beer.
(4)Ginger W.
I used to really dislike this place because when my family goes out to dinner, we tend to stick with the quiet, nicer end of things. Previous experiences over the years were pretty consistent, with an extremely loud dining room of people drinking Bud Light pitchers. You get the idea. Kids running everywhere, and adults acting like children, it really wasn't our family's kind of place. That said, I have been back recently multiple times and it has improved my overall opinion. I would still say that this is not a place to bring a quiet family or a date. It is not intimate, romantic, quiet, civilized, relaxing, upscale, or with a noise level suitable to having conversation without being hoarse. However, there are still things it does very well, and I am a firm believer in judging a place on what it appears to be striving for and not just on the qualities that I personally have moods for. Brewer's Alley has excellent beer and beer-related food. My personal favorites are the 1634 and IPA. I am a beer sipper, so I don't generally get more than a glass of something, but I am much more focused on the different flavors and things. They do a good job. The food is really bar food, done well. The calamari is an awesome snack, and they make some delicious burgers. It's not pretentious food, but its good food, and with beer, that's the important thing. Brewer's Alley is an awesome place to chill and eat outside, particularly if you have a dog. They are really nice about helping people with dogs get in and out easily and quickly. The little patio area really is a people-watching mecca for locals. Everyone walks by there, and it gets some nice sun without being boiling hot. I really enjoy it, even if I am just passing through. Brewer's Alley has some excellent service. It is prompt, kind, and generally populated by people who know the area and are from the area. At a neighborhood brewery, that's really what you want to see. Brewer's Alley does a lot to contribute to the town resident night life in downtown Frederick (not just Friday and Saturday nights) and also to be an active part of the downtown community, without being at all pretentiously "suburbs of DC" about it. They have free gumbo, lots of tvs for games, and a pretty busy scene on busier days. There is always something going on.
(3)Oj M.
Great place to hang out in Frederick. I tried the Meatless Sloppy Joe - the sauce was made w/ more sugar than tomato. I will stick with pizza from next time. If you get a sandwich or burger, get sweet potato fries as a side - they were yummy. We usually site in the dining area, but on Saturday night we stayed in the bar and the music was way too loud - maybe bc it was a Sat night?
(3)Luisita S.
The menu at Brewer's Alley is always more appetizing than the actual food. If you stick with the sandwiches or salads, you'll do well. Anything more complicated is beyond the kitchen's capabilities.
(2)Ann S.
Good beer, yummy Blue Point oysters, okay salads, nice evening w/ the peeps kinda place.
(4)Laura T.
After a few hours of shred time at Liberty, we rolled into town looking for some good food and drinks. We stumbled upon Brewer's Alley and hoped to find some space in the bar area. Friday night about 7:30pm.... no luck. So we grabbed a table in the dining area. The menu was loaded with so many choices, it was almost too difficult to choose just one thing for dinner. The lobster and shrimp mac N cheese jumped off the special menu, and my decision was made. Only when I received my entree, I was disappointed that the pasta and sauce seemed more like a cheesy alfredo sauce lightly blanketing large, smooth, tubular pieces of pasta, than a hearty, gooey blend of noodles and cheese delightfully fused together. Otherwise, the shrimp and lobster were plentiful, but the mac N cheese itself was rather disappointing. However, the fresh bread, home made soups I tasted (MMM! potato and artichoke), and drinks were on point. Both friends enjoyed their entrees (chicken/lobster pot pie & the tilapia entree), and I was happy that my scotch was a nice full serving presented shortly after we placed our drink orders. I like the casual atmosphere, and menu that has a mix of lighter fare plus larger plate entrees. The dessert menu also looked incredibly enticing, but we decided to save that for another day. Despite my less than satisfying dish, I was still able to achieve that warm, relaxed and cozy feel. And after a day on the slopes, that is really all that matters.
(3)Addison T.
I had high hopes for this place after reading some of the reviews. It ended up being just ok. We ordered the surf and turf on lobster night and it was such a good price! We also ordered the sampler of beers. The beers seemed watered down. Also there was a bug that kept crawling on my husband. At least I hope it was one bug and not different ones. Again trying to give the benefit of the doubt because the have at outdoor area and anything could crawl in. The oysters were good! All in all it was worth 3.5 stars.
(3)Sean M.
Great food. I'm not sure who the chef is here but he/she does an excellent job, So far we've had the steak, lobster and fried fish and it has all been exceptional. The side dishes are not the best around but the home made beer and cheap yet delicious mixed drinks make up for that. Not to mention the great service. Will definitely suggest to friends.
(5)Stephanie S.
Good beer, good food, unique atmosphere: that's how I'd sum up Brewer's Alley. You can go to this place for a lunch, dinner, or just for drinks. I should know, I've done all three. :) The last time I went, I had a great meal off their lunch menu. This was the first time I had lobster bisque, so I can't really compare to others. I CAN say that I would definitely have it again. I also had one of their featured sandwiches: bacon, goat cheese and greens on ciabatta bread. I'm not sure of the specific name, but I'll just call it Deliciousness. The bacon was carmelized, I believe. It definitely wasn't super crispy, like on a BLT. Other things I would recommend: their pizza (I've had the pepperoni) and their Nut Brown Ale. It's probably one of the most delicious beers I've ever had. The only down side: I think the front end of their dining room has a distinct smell of cleaners. Like the odor you smell sometimes when you sit at a bar where the dirty rags are stored. I can't really explain it, but it definitely hits you as soon as you enter the dining room. Try to get a table on the far end, away from the kitchen, if possible.
(4)Marilyn e.
Stopped for lunch at the Brewer's Alley 01/02/12 and was very disappointed. The food was mediocre and the service from the kitchen was SLOW!!! Sweet potato fries had way too much salt and were barely warm. The hamburger was dry. Fish tacos were okay. Probably the most irritating thing about our experience there was the staff cleaning with a roller vacuum all around us while we were trying to eat and have a conversation. Also, I find this not to be very sanitary. Our server, Danielle, was very good and the best thing about Brewer's Alley. But won't be returning. I've heard there are too many other good places to eat in Frederick.
(1)Diane T.
It was our first trip to Frederick and we were really looking forward to Brewer's Alley. We weren't disappointed. We had good timing. It was about 1pm and we got the last two seats at the bar. after that, the place was jammed. I really like their Dunkle Weis, but that's probably because it was lighter than your usual Dunkle. I would consider it a cross between a Hefeweisen and Dunkle Weis. Boyfriend like the IPA the best out of what he tried. The bartenders were friendly and had no problem filling us in on all the nuances of their beer. I think they had about 12 on draft, including their 1634 ale, which is supposed to be a rye-based colonial ale. For lunch I had the sliders. At first I was concerned because it was $8 for only 2-sliders, but they were pretty thick for sliders and loaded with cheese and carmelized onions, so those little hamburgers kept me going all day. There are so many restaurants in Frederick that look so inviting and I'd like to try them on future trips, but I think I'll find a way to fit in Brewer's Alley, as well.
(4)Ryan P.
Returned to Brewers after over a year since my first experience. Again just meh. Nothing to write home about to say the least. We both got beers, Kolsch and the Seasonal Chocolate (Can't remember the name). The Kolsch was good, but not light enough for a true Kolsch in my opinion. The Chocolate beer was one of the worst chocolate brews I have ever had. It needed a twist of something in it to pick it up, either cherry or raspberry to give it some depth. However the beer was the only positive yet again of this place. Our party got varied dishes. We started with the Crab and Poblano Cheese Dip. What a waste of money. I could've easily put together the cream cheese and cheap canned crap concoction that this was. I didn't even find any pepper what so ever in it, pretty bland and more cream cheese than crab for sure. I had the Portabella Burger and thought it was okay at best, the mushrooms were a bit tough and needed longer on the grill. My partner and I both got those skimpy fries again. Hate them! Another member of our party got the Caesar Salad with Chicken, and said it was the worth the salad she's had. The lettuce was mostly the stalks of the romaine rather than the leave and the dressing was bland and oily. I mean if you can't do a simple Caesar salad right, then just get out of the biz! The pizza the other person in our party ordered was greasy and slightly burnt from the looks of me. Overall I would skip this place all together, I don't think the third time is the charm, nor will they get one from me!
(2)Xopher D.
Great for the brews -- and totally average for food. Been here a few times with large groups in town for business. Service has always been stellar, even to the point of separate checks for parties of 10 or more. And the selection and quality of brews matches the service. There's always something for anyone who likes beer: from light bubbly lagers to deep dark stouts. Well now, the food is just okay. The burgers are fine, the gumbo is fine, the salads are fresh, but nothing is spectacular. And for the prices charged, you'd expect a bit more. You're paying for location here, not culinary je ne sais quois. But like the name says, it's really all about the beer. Drink up!
(3)M L.
Friend and I went here while exploring downtown Frederick. We roamed around for awhile looking for just the right spot and found this place. The large windows offer a great people-watching venue with a nice cold brew in hand. I originally sat facing away from the window, but ended up sitting next to my friend to face the street, checking out the downtown crowd. The food was pretty good, standard bar fare. The beer selection wasn't bad either with options ranging from local to better known brews. There's something hoppy or more fruity for everyone. The server was great...knowledgeable, personable and attentive. There was also an outside seating area that looked very chill, but it was a hot summer day. I would definitely check out this place again.
(4)Ze W.
This is probably a great place for beer- I liked the space and friendly service, but sadly the food was just not desirable. We had fried fish tacos, fried chicken sandwich, and steak salad with fried onions- everything fried (all of it) tasted of old frying oil, and overfried. I just couldn't eat it. Really disappointing, but if I were to ever be back, I'd stick with the beer. Four stars for friendliness and accommodation; 2 for actual food... Oh, but I'd forgotten about the chicken soup, which I loved. I'd come back for soup and beer, if anyone ever forced me back...
(3)Racha H.
My husband and I have been going to Brewer's Alley for a long time. We live in the near by Germantown. The brew there is a draw, but the food is great too. Not the average bar food. There's something for everyone. The woodfire Pizza is also very good. The menu changes some with the season but a few all time fav, like the meatloaf, is always on. Our latest visit was a week ago. We had fried calamary for appetizer. It was fresh and battered and fried just right. Not the frozen stuff some restaurant served. My new personal favourite is the souhthern fried chicken. Very generous portion. The chicken is tender, juicy, and boneless! Sreved with a heap of delish mash potato and white gravy on the top. The gravy was a bit too rich for me. I should have asked for it on the side. The veggie that came with the chicken could have been better because it was the height of summer, instead, the veggie was a soggy disappointing mess. My husband had the lobster. Yes, we were there at Lobster Night ! No surprise there, all good. The lobster came with a salad and fresh crispy fries. Haven't had a bad meal there yet, and hope never, ever will.
(3)M. M.
I stopped here for lunch while in town and found it to be a serviceable brewpub, nothing fancy. Apparently their patio is the big draw - in addition to enjoying nice weather you can take your dog out there (and I did see dogs on the patio). However, be warned the patio is teeny compared with the rest of the restaurant. The patio was of course full with a waiting line, and I had no dog with me, thought it looked like rain, and would just as soon not have to bat bugs away from my plate, so I opted to sit indoors. I got a booth to myself right away in that manner, although it was in a darkish back room of the restaurant which frankly could use an interior decorating upgrade. I didn't get anything adventurous in the way of food, just soup, oysters (they had 2 kinds) and tried a couple of small beers. It's hard to go wrong with oysters. The menu of beers they brew seemed a bit pedestrian - no unusual seasonals or anything - but the beer was good and I got a growler to take home. The server was very attentive. I would eat here again, it's an okay pub lunch stop. But I can see where the patio would fill up fast or pose a problem if a live band was playing, because it is small. Next time I would probably ask to be indoors in the front room where it is better lit and would feel less like eating in someone's finished basement.
(3)Kyle D.
First time here and the experience was just as bad as going to McDonalds at 12 am with Oscar the grouch as your server. I made reservations and was seated almost right away. The server was fairly rude but he seemed to cheer up a little over time. The pizza was delicious! It did come to the table cold. I'd give this place another shot but it may be a while.
(3)Sonya P.
The food can be hit or miss depending on menu items. Best time to go is for happy hour because they have excellent specials, sometime free food, and good service. The bar area can get rowdy but that's typical. The tap beers are just ok, but the sampler is fun and an affordable way to pick your brew.
(4)Chelsea R.
Edited to one star because a server from there sent me a hateful message. Hope you enjoy watching your rating plummet, guys. First, let me just say that I am not that into pub food. But I went here because the Frederick city website said that I this place is dog friendly. I had my four legged buddy, who weighs approximately 10 lbs, attached to my stroller, which had my baby in it. The hostess immediately looked like a deer in headlights because I had my dog with me, and when I told her that the website said that dogs were welcome, she said that they don't normally allow them because some people on the patio might not like dogs. She also added that they sometimes-only sometimes- have a "dog patio". I guess the moral of the story is to call before you park in a parking garage and walk there. And I wasn't welcome to bring my stroller with my child in it on to the patio, either. If you're in a wheelchair, I guess you're out of luck. You'll take up far too much room and the waitress will get snippy. On to the food-I had a "Sunday Special" mimosa which was made with something cheap and the thinnest orange juice I've ever seen. Not a great presentation. I had the fish and chips and it was ok, except that the chips were cold, which isn't surprising because we waited for a long time for our food. The batter is flavorless and crumbly on the fish, and the tarter sauce was closer to an aioli than any tartar sauce I've ever had. It is so runny you can pour it out, and it smells of horseradish. The entire visit took 90 minutes and they weren't even very busy. There were also other people waiting with dogs, but I didn't stick around to find out how they were treated. In summary, this is my second trip to Brewer's Alley and I will probably try the other more dog friendly spots downtown next time.
(1)Dean W.
We ordered the Quattro Fromaggio Pizza (it came with blue cheese!); it had a really yummy crust. Also the crab cake was very good, Very tasty long island and baked mac N cheese.
(5)Mary B.
If you need a place to eat that caters to several different taste palettes (and perhaps a picky kid) Brewers is a great choice. There's a reason this place is always packed. The food is good, the beer they brew is great (try their kolsch- mmmm) and the atmosphere is lively. Unless you get there early, plan to never get a seat at the bar- it's just too busy. The old charm of the building itself plus being right in the Heart of Downtown Frederick makes it a good place to bring out of towners. Plus it's so big- you can almost always be seated without a reservation, except maybe for First Saturdays. For food, I enjoy their fish & chips. They also hVe great wood fired pizzas and big salads. For kids there's s ton of stuff. In the summers they open out onto their parking lot and have a pooch patio. They have live music out there, too. We enjoy bringing our dog down and having dinner there. Other people must, too, because it's always filled with pups and their owners.
(5)Keith L.
Food is good. Patio is nice, however they allow smokers to smoke directly next to the patio. I said something to my server and nothing was done about it. They didn't care that it bothered us. Other tables were complaining also. If you don't like to breath in second hand smoke, eat inside.
(3)Calvin M.
The beer is cheap. Good place to hang out and drink a few. The food, I'm not impressed. Had the fried scrod and falafel. Just wasn't impressed. The fish was very greasy. I'll come back for the beer.
(3)Rick G.
Great place for quick snack, dinner, to meet for drinks. A place for your 4 legged friends a porch for doggies when the weather is good ... A place to hang, or dine ----- one of the best places in Frederick
(5)David M.
I just wasn't a fan. It came highly recommended, and I had been here once before for a quick lunch, but that was years ago. This visit was not impressive. The main dining room was small and had that look about it as if it has not been updated since the mid 80's. The bar area looked pretty nice , but for this trip we were only passing through it. The beer was decent taste-wise, but flat. As if their co2 cans were spent. I had two different kinds. Both were flat. And one was a Pilsner, you beer snot. ;) I reckon I should have seen a bubble or two in that. The sandwiches we got were simply lame. I had the brewer's hoagie. My wife had the brisket sandwich. Boring. Both of them. Our server was just off. He was perhaps about to get off work soon since he seemed to be rushing us along. I had a handful of sandwich and he came and took my plate away lol. He asked us "uhm. You all don't want dessert, do you?" We didn't. But it was so awkward. That, and the sweeping around our table. It was just weird. I doubt highly we will wind up going back.
(2)m. o.
Pretty good brewpub food, as long as you're prepared to wait quite a bit on a weekend to get a table, and then subsequently to get served your meal. If you do go, recommend sitting outside if it is nice or in the front room (rather than the back room) if you eat inside. The back room is devoid of character and noisy. The burgers and chicken BLT was good food and good value. The service was okay.
(3)Kacie D.
Went for a beer- my husband ordered his and it smelled/tasted horrible. Bartender never came back to ask me what I would like to drink and then charged my husband for his beer that he didn't touch- not even asking if something was wrong. Our 2nd time going there and dealing with this very unpleasant bartender.
(1)Jim G.
Would love to tell you to go here. I have known the brewer since my 1995 and really want to support them. Unfortunately, the beer is common. It's a cool place because there isn't anything better. If you like true to style (i.e gauge beer) by all means, stop by and enjoy. If you want your beer to be over the top or different, keep going. NOW.. I will say, the 1634 was interesting. The caroway was overpowering. Tasted like drinking rye bread, but it was interesting. The other beers, (5 of them) were just so-so. We had a wood fired pizza. Again so-so. Don't get me wrong, I will stop again the next time I am in Frederick, but only until something better opens up.
(2)Karl M.
Decent brewpub, good beers and I recommend the crab cakes and pizza.
(4)Casey K.
Pretty bad night here. I think if you are a big beer enthusiast who needs a spot to meet up with friends, then this is the place for you. However, if you are like myself that was out for dinner with the fam, then you are out of luck with quality of food. We started with the meat and cheese platter, which was really a pitiful site. It was served on a plate. Not on a carving board or a cool piece of slate that I have seen elsewhere. The components were just sort of thrown on the plate with no distinction in which was which. The apple slices were pithy and lifeless, there was no snap or sweetness to merge with the other savory ingredients and there were only two slices, seemed kind of sparse for a meat and cheese "platter". There was some baguette slices which were burnt and there were also only three pieces. All and all, this was a really bad starter and I would not recommend. I had the cedar plank salmon which was also not good. The salmon was cooked ok and just as I requested but the components paired with it were odd. The tomato relish ended up being like a marinara sauce, which in no way was good complimented or took of from the salmon, it was just odd. I was expecting so much from the tomato relish, however, it fell flat for me. The russet potatoes were dry and tough, one of the pieces were actually too hard for me to chew, which I inconspicuously deposited into my napkin. Just bad bad bad, and definite one to skip. The best thing on the table I tasted and the thing I wished I had ordered was the plantain mahi. The fish was light and tender while the avocado mashed potatoes had a wonderful flavor. I would highly recommend this dish and if I ever find myself here again, that is my go to. I had a bite of the muffuletta burger which was forgettable and in noway like a muffuletta, but more a burger they just put a large chunk of ham on. There was no finesse in flavors, and I was honestly very let down by this night at brewers alley. Can't say I will return.
(2)Joshua P.
Food was great, had bean burger and shared a margherita pizza. Co-workers I went with are big beer finatics and they kept talking about how good it's was! I would definitely return.
(5)Travis F.
I love this place. Food is excelled, service is fast. Thursday's are great for a cheap lobster dinner. We also had a friends birthday here and they were great for providing us a with a large table for the group.
(4)Andrew M.
Found this place just by looking on the map. At first it seemed great, but then the wait was long and the waiter took forever getting our drinks. There is room for improvement on the service. As for the food, it was really good. Had the Maryland crab dip and the BBQ chicken for dinner. Well proportioned and priced. I can't really complain there. But I just didn't think it deserved more stars. We got the wrong check which was for the other table. And my friend almost paid it. The beer was great, so if your looking for pub food and beer. This isn't a bad place. Give it a try
(3)Shona G.
I have eaten at Brewer's Alley a few times and the food is always pretty good. Tonight we made the mistake of sitting on the patio where the band was playing. Let me say this, the band was good, I would have enjoyed the music if I could have actually seen the band. We arrived early to ensure that we would get a table, unfortunately once the band started playing people began crowding in and standing in front of our table so that their butts were right in our face, and I mean that is all we could see.......butts everywhere (see butt photo, you'll know which one). This large group of people appeared to be friends and family of the band as they seemed to know each other. We had a meal and were attempting to finish our dessert in spite of the butts, when they began setting their drinks and empty glasses on our table!! At one point my husband moved his chair to the other side of the table to get away from the butts, but they just followed him there too. Not only were these people rudely obstructing our view but there was so many of them that the wait staff had to maneuver around them which also affected the service that paying customers like ourselves received. I might add that they were not eating, just drinking and leaving their glasses with us. My husband is typically a very laid back and easy going guy, but he had his fill. When he went in to speak to the manager he was told that they can't control the situation, he also said that the band called this crowd to come hear them. That is ridiculous! The patio is fenced off and when it is full they should begin a wait list like most other establishments would. Standing around the outer perimeter would be perfectly acceptable but these people were everywhere, this is a reataurant, people were trying to eat. When it was brought to their attention by one server, some of them moved over while more just filed into their places. This was the rudest group of people I have ever encountered and the substandard manner in which the restaurant handled the situation only compounded the problem. It turned out to be a very disappointing evening.
(1)Nicole W.
Just had lunch there, the service was excellent but the fish and chips were a bit greasy. The calamari was very good though. I would go back but get the pizza next time.
(4)Sara B.
Pretty good food, last time I went I ordered a turkey burger and it was really tasty! A number of others at my table ordered crab cakes and loved them. Good beer selection. Only complaint would be to have more attentive waitstaff.
(4)Eddie Y.
The best crab dip ever! Nice seating areas, staff is very nice and friendly. The food is great. Ill be back.
(4)Bridget H.
This place is amazing. No, seriously! Brewer's Alley has great food, friendly and quick service, and great selection of ale. They even have seasonal ales too! I really enjoyed their pumpkin ale, I got to sample it this past Thanksgiving. This time, I tried a nutty brown ale. My favorite meal has to be the ham & cheese with local ham from Woodsboro. The portion size is not too small, but it isn't so big, you feel really "stuffed" after eating there.
(5)Lelia S.
Yum! I went to Brewer's Alley for a work function and the food and service were outstanding. The crab dip and calamari for appetizers were well prepared and a nice start to the meal. The menu is eclectic. Most people will be able to find something they like, with lots of options for chicken, steak, seafood. They have great daily specials too. I tried the jambalaya and it was the perfect combination of spice, seafood and, strangely enough, orzo instead of rice. All the dishes were very flavorful! We also spent some time at the bar and my colleagues assured me that the beers were great but I stuck with a few mojitos. The bartender did a nice job on these too. Overall impression: If you're in Frederick and looking for a place to experience a tasty dinner or casual evening out, this place is definitely worth a try!
(4)Jess E.
Brewer's Alley is always a solid choice. I've never had a bad meal or bad service here. The pizza is delicious, and although they don't do half-and-half with toppings, they are otherwise very accommodating. I also love their pretzel appetizer. Beer selection is great too, definitely a good place to check out what's on tap, as you would hope with a name like Brewer's Alley!
(4)Anthony I.
Sadly, i did not drink the beer here, i was prepping for a big meal later on that evening, however the oysters were fantastic, some of the largest I have ever had. I will soon be back to imbibe on what I have heard called some of the best locally brewed beer anywhere. The salads were also great, fresh, delicious and just the right size, but man the oysters were spectacular, literally the size of softballs!
(4)Leah O.
After a ghost tour of Frederick, my friend and I headed to Brewers Alley for a beer and live music. Neither disappointed. We didn't actually eat here, but sat outside in the beer garden area. They had an excellent band (I can't remember the name) There was plenty of room for sitting and/or standing and dancing. They have a large selection of brews to choose from, as they brew their own beer. If I was up in Frederick again, I would be sure to hit up Brewers Alley for more beer and to try their food selection.
(5)Sheryl V.
My husband enjoyed the beer - we both enjoyed the food. He had fish & chips and I had black bean burger. Enjoyed the atmosphere and the waitstaff - this was New Year's Eve for lunch and it was busy - the food came out very quickly. We would go back again.
(4)Abby B.
We visited on a mid week night and got right in, had a very nice experience except for the portion/pricing of the entree my husband and I shared. We ordered from under "big plates" section of the menu and got the surf and turf which was $31. When the waiter brought out our shared meal, we each ate our portion in about 6 bites, it really was sad...:( the crab cake portions was the size of a half dollar and the steak was slightly bigger. we each got 4 tiny broccoli florets and a few kernals of corn. So not worth $31!!
(3)Glen M.
Decent beermenu, worth exploring more on subsequent visits. I had their hefe weizen -- very good -- and a "cordon blue burger" for lunch -- not as well-executed as it could have been.
(3)Julaine N.
Brewer's (as the name would suggest) makes their own beer. They have great half-priced happy hour specials on Mondays and Tuesdays. I would suggest tasting a beer or asking your bartender/waitress for a suggestion. They have a good IPA and I love the summer seasonal blueberry beer. If you are looking for something to eat at the bar, they also have great brick oven pizzas. The rest of the food is alright, but nothing spectacular. I usually just get their house salad with champagne dressing and goat cheese fritters. Simple but tasty...a bit over-priced for a salad. Steer clear of the salmon dishes...I am not sure about their seafood supplier. I have had too many fish dishes that were a little too fishy. :/ Overall, come for a beer, pizza, or salad; enjoy the outdoor patio (but only if you are eating, unfortunately); but try another restaurant if you are looking for a fancy dinner.
(3)Mark R.
Great place to grab a home-brewed beer and grab a great meal! Best of all, the prices here are great for the value / quality. The first thing you notice are the huge beer vats... and let me ensure you that the beer in them is delicious! Always a good selection and great bar service. The huge t.v. in the bar makes it a nice place to watch a game. The food is really good. Wide variety and large selection. I feel like they need to limit some of the menu. its a bit too much. Its a great place to bring a large group of people. From time to time they have special events and tasting dinners. I went to one tasting that was a pairing of 5 courses with beer. Really fun and a good value. I think you can get on the list on their website. Overall, its a good place to grab a great lunch or dinner.
(4)Chrys H.
Good beer, solid food, good service. We're glad we found it.
(4)Joel S.
This restaurant is just OK. I was not impressed by the food and the ambiance is not what you see from the street (we ate in the back room).
(3)Elise O.
i really should have tried the beer here but sadly did not. instead i had a long island iced tea which i must say was expertly mixed and tasted great. the fried pickles were delish. I had the crab cake platter and was dissappointed that i literally only received TWO pieces of asparagus on my plate. that was the reason i picked the platter over the sandwich was for the asparagus. so it was a dissappointing portion for $19. our waitress wasn't bad but rather apathetic. she seemed like she had a long day and was kind of over it. overall, just ok! not great.
(3)Laura J.
Had the beer sampler and enjoyed all the different beers. It was Cinco de Mayo, and they had a special menu which we ordered from. I had a pasta dish that used Italian techniques and ingredients that used chorizo (spicy Mexican sausage) and it was excellent.
(4)Jess R.
Had a great lunch, I agree with Amy T, they do a great twist on normal faire. Such as a BLTC - BTL with PepperJack cheese...was great. Had the soup of the day - Sweet potato and apple bisque - unique flavor with a slight sweet after taste. Nice meal - would definitely recommend.
(4)talia r.
*This is a review mostly from the boy, but I co-sign on what will be written.* Sit at the bar or grab a seat outside and enjoy one of 9 wonderfully brewed choices ready for drinking (love the oatmeal stout and belgium whit). Get a sampler of all or if your group decides for one and wants more than just a pint get the Brewtenders delivered to your table (for 6 pints at $19 you are getting one hell of a deal). Don't feel like staying, grab a growler of your favorite choice and take it on the road. With a single $15 deposit, it is yours to keep and either return for money back or fill it up again for round 2. Let me rewind a bit. Brewer's Alley is housed in, yes an alley (kinda), a beautiful historic building that once was the City Hall and before that the Rhode Island House. For all of your classy party needs, there is a 2nd floor banquet room. Food comes good portioned and nice price. It may be a brewery, but it definitely serves like an upscale pub grub. After a filling lunch we decided on a light dinner and split the Maryland style crab soup and thai chicken salad. Soup hit the spot with the large chunks of crab, corn and green beans floating in its tasteful broth. The salad tasted fresh and light., tons of chicken and a nice spice in the dressing. All ingredients, produce and meats, come locally and it could be my imagination but it makes it taste that much better. If you want a deal, this is your place: Monday: Stimulus Package: Buy 1 big plate and get a starred food item or daily special of equal or lesser value for free. Wednesday: 8pm-close $2 drafts (when drafts are about $3.50, it isn't too big of a deal, but saving that $1.50 just means another beer). 9pm, free cajun buffet. Thursday: 1 1/4 lb whole Maine Loberster or Grilled 10oz. New York Strip Steak for $13.95 or $25.95 for both. You better believe I am hauling my ass here on a Thursday. To sum it all up in the boy's words: Top notch service, great location, beer prices fantastic, food was good (but we will see how the rest of the menu goes after more visits) loved the micro-brew choices. What else do you need to have? It is a micro-brew!
(5)Andy J.
Beer wasn't great but it wasn't bad either. You can't beat the happy hour price of $2.52 a pint. I only drank, I have no idea about the food.
(3)Rachael H.
great food - for a better atmosphere sit in the bar or patio area - the dining area is a little like a retirement cafeteria - but the bar and patio area area were great!
(4)Larry G.
Interesting little "Irish pub" that a friend decided for us to meet for lunch. It is bright and roomy...despite the fact that it was pouring hard outside. So, that's a plus! My friend ordered some eggplant sandwich. I ordered the baked ziti. As soon as I had my first taste, I knew I'd be spending quality time in the bathroom. It was like eating mac n' cheese with like 4 times as cheesy. Whoo...a bit too much. Plus, diced tomatoes on top. Ewww! It was definitely not like the baked ziti at Sbarro's. The wait service was friendly and prompt. So, I'll give them credit for that. The next time I come here...I'll try their burgers.
(3)James V.
Great pizza, beer, and service. A really charming restaurant in the center of historic Frederick. My whole family love this place. The Pizza was really good and the home made beer made the night extra special...
(5)Jessie H.
Great food, horrible waitress. A group of 4 of us headed here, after touring Flying Dog Brewery. I had the california chicken sandwich, which was delicious. My husband enjoyed the burger. The table shared the nacho - with the chili on the side (awesome!) Really enjoyed the banana peppers. I had asked for pepper jack cheese & my husband asked for bacon. Neither sandwich came with them, which is no big deal. We just wanted to tell the waitress so we were not charged. She pretty much made fun us being worried about "$1.50". And instead of apologizing, she complained how she was going to have to have her manager take it off the bill. Still at this point, we were still happy to tip her at least 20%. She was quite annoying and fake, but whatever. Then the check came. The bill was about $80, and we asked her to split the check evenly between the two couples. After she ran the cards, she returned them to us. Between our two checks she ended up charging us an additional $12 - how does that happen? Very shady. Again, we brought it to her attention, and she really didn't care, and again acted annoyed. At that point the whole table shut down and had enough. We would return again, but would specifically request not to have this waitress. I probably would have ranked this 4 stars otherwise. Needless to say, we were not very generous on the tip.
(2)Kevin W.
This place has pretty good food regardless of what you are looking for. I was in Frederick for business and ended up at this place a couple times. Great food and service.
(4)Gabrielle B.
The bar was great but the food was less-than-average. We started with the nachos as an appetizer. They seemed microwaved and were soggy. My friend got the salmon entree and it was way too salty. Her husband got the pizza and although the crust was good, the cheese seemed to have an added layer of salt. My fiancee got the ribs and was surprised how few ribs he got for the price. I got the chicken satay with rice and vegetables and it was really greasy. It wasn't cheap and it wasn't good.
(2)Allison K.
The Duck pizza was otherworldly. I could have had 2 larges myself I think. I liked the beer they poured for us and the sweet-potato fries?!! So good, I almost made myself sick downing the whole basket. :P The ambiance leaves a little to be desired...at least in some of the rooms. We sat in the side dining room which was a little quiet and the round tables leave everyone staring at one another awkwardly. Square tables, some low tunes and dimmer lighting would do wonders for this room. The bar area seemed hopping with a more college/sports bar flare to it. Very fun and a bit loud if you're looking for a mellower evening.
(4)Laurie W.
Brewer's Alley is okay - fun if you're in the mood for hanging out and don't mind a little noise. Let me just say first of all that I am very fond of Frederick, so I'm generally in a good mood when I drive up to go out downtown. I went back to Brewer's Alley last night to meet some friends "halfway" who were coming from a bit farther west and east from Baltimore, so it's a good place to meet in the middle. There are lots of dining options on Market Street, but one of my friends suggested Brewer's and it was fine with me. I'd last been there with a big group for a pre-bachelorette party dinner, and it had been really fun. I always forget that smoking is allowed in Frederick County/City bars and restaurants, but that's going to change this February when the statewide ban goes into effect, as a friendly guy at the bar reminded me. I had the Kolsch, which was okay - a little bit warm, which doesn't thrill me. Another friend had the Oatmeal Stout, and there were some mixed drinks consumed at our table as well - I didn't hear any complaints about those, and they looked pretty strong, if that's your thing. Happy hour beers are three bucks, so nothing wrong with that. We stayed for dinner, and our waiter was funny and accommodating. It was so hot in the restaurant (at least to me) that I had trouble deciding on what to eat. Everything's a bit...heavy, but it's a brewpub so that's no shock. I had the steak and iceberg salad. The meat wasn't the greatest - fresh but pretty tough and more fat than I care for (especially on top of a salad. Yuck.) The dressing was good, though, so all in all it was a step up from mediocre. My friends ordered the meatloaf, a barbecue sandwich, and an Asian salad (I think that's what it was, although I'm not sure what was in it that made it Asian, besides those crunchy noodles on the top.) The shoestring fries looked good. I'd go for the meatloaf if I went again and wasn't feeling like dinner was a huge hot flash not at all solved by the dining room ceiling fans. I'd much rather have sat outside since it was a nice night, but the tables were full. The bar is packed on the weekends and - as noted - is smoke city. If that's okay with you, and you like mob scenes, this could be your spot. Bar seating is very limited, but they didn't seem to care that we sat at our table nursing drinks long after we were done eating. Warning - during the week after a certain time, they stop serving any food but pizza. The pizza, thankfully, is one of the better options on the menu, so you're safe. Overall this isn't a bad choice for a casual meal and a beer.
(3)Nathaniel L.
Went here last night and enjoyed it very much! There's an outdoor patio where you can enjoy the weather if it's nice. We ate inside since we had a large group including a child. The cheese-filled pretzel appetizer is delicious and the sweet potato fries that come with the ribs are great! Someone said the nut brown beer was very good too.
(3)Jes S.
Great place to drink. As for food... eh. If you get hungry while you're drinking, it's definitely passable. But I wouldn't go here JUST for the food. They do a great job with what they have, but the final product just doesn't taste fresh and "crisp"; flavors are flat and one-dimensional. I've had a few sandwiches with fries, and once took a chance on the lamb chops when a friend really wanted to eat here. I must say I was surprised at how well they did the lamb chops. Not that they were fantastic, but better than I expected. I guess you'd say that, for bar food, it's pretty good. For real food, not so. Service is pretty outstanding: friendly, prompt, and on top of things even on wildly busy nights. It sucks that you often have to wait upwards of 15 minutes for a table, or even a seat on the bar, but that just goes to show how popular the place is. I once had a credit card issue here when I was overcharged as the result of a bill-splitting-with-friends mistake by the waitress. I called the manager and he kept me up-to-date about every 15 minutes (for over 2 hours) until his accountant had fixed the problem (at about 10 PM on a weeknight). And no, the friend I split the bill with wasn't charged the amount that was taken off my receipt. Nor was the waitress' tip docked. I was impressed. As a result, I think the management is excellent. Atmosphere... For drinking, it's pubbishly outstanding. For eating in the dining areas, rather a cheap, kitschy, pathetic imitation of a German Brauhaus. All in all, great for some liquor, a snack, and good rowdy times. For a really enjoyable meal, North Market has better options.
(3)J A.
Service: F Food: F Beer: A- Same people own Isabellas, so no surprise that both suck.
(1)Suze B.
I love this place!! The food is delicious, as well as the drinks. The atmosphere is just right for that kind of restaurant. I highly recommend eating here during your trip to Frederick.
(4)Guy S.
The beer is good and the atmosphere is pretty cool. I rarely go out now that I have a kid, but when I do I usually go here. The only problem is that it's pretty smoky as are all bars in Old Town Frederick.
(4)Christine W.
my friend and i ran over to this place (literally- pouring rain!) looking for a bite to eat. we decided to share a pizza. mmm... brick oven goodness. the crust is crisp and so chewy. the rest of the menu didn't really hold my interest. i thought the atmosphere at the bar and decor were nice, but the waiter was too busy chatting it up with other staff members.
(3)Lori M.
My husband and I went here on a Thursday night mainly because of Lobster Night (I mean, really, I couldn't cook a lobster dinner at home for the price of $13.95). We were seated immediately, after being asked if we wanted to sit outside or inside. Since it was hot out, we chose inside, but many people were seated on the patio. To enter the dining room, you have to go through the bar. Then, when you arrive at the dining room, the first thing you notice is the high noise level, even though the room was only half full and there was no music playing. The accoustics must be terrible in there. We were seated at a small table in the far corner of the room. When they placed us there, I thought, "well, at least it may be quieter here, but it really wasn't. The waitress immediately came and took our drink orders, and since we knew we wanted the specials, she took those orders, too. I ordered the lobster special--1 1/4 pound lobster with a ceasar salad and fries, and my husband, who doesn't like fooling with the work of eating a lobster, ordered the 10 oz. steak, again with ceasar salad and fries...no choices of salad or sides, no substitutions. After a short wait, the beverages arrived...I had just ordered water, but my husband got one of the wheat beers that they brew there. He said it was good, but not the best he had ever had. The price was reasonable, but also kind of odd...$3.67 or $3.62--an odd amount--what's up with that? Shortly after the beverages arrived, a second server delivered the ceasar salads--good and cheesy with a few croutons and a hint of garlic (not overpowering as someone else said in one of the reviews). The server came back and I asked if bread was included with the meal and I got a flat answer, "No", not, "It doesn't come with the specials" or "It's an extra charge", just, "No" and he left. When we were leaving later, I noticed several tables did have bread baskets, so I had to assume that bread did not come with the special. I could understand this if we had ordered a sandwich, but I would have thought bread would have been served with a steak or lobster dinner. After we finished the salad, there was virtually no wait until the entrees arrived. My husband said his steak was tender and flavorful and cooked just as he had ordered and it looked huge! And my lobster was wonderful! Both entrees were served with shoestring fries that were very good, crispy and with just the right amount of salt, but, while serving the fries on the same plate as the steak was fine, they quickly got soggy in the liquid of the lobster juice as I opened the lobster. Seems like serving them on a small seperate plate would be a simple solution. Although they actually tasted good soaked in the juice of the lobster, not everyone would like that, and the diner should have the choice to keep them dry if they want to...such a simple solution, too. The entree also included a rather tasteless bit of coleslaw in a small cup--more of a garnish than a side. The lobster and steak, though, I can't say enough good about...very tasty, and VERY reasonable price. Since that was the main thing I came for, I'll overlook the other flaws. The waitress was attentive, checking serveral times to see if everything was okay, and to get a refill of the beer, and the server also checked on us, but was a little too eager to clear the table...asking if I was done with the discard plate (they gave you a seperate plate to put the shell on as you worked your way through the lobster)...I was only halfway through the meal...not sure where he thought I would put the rest of the shell if he took the plate. All in all, the meal was wonderful, but it would have been nice to have some bread to soak up the lobster juices, and to have the seperate plate for the fries. Will definately return and hope they take note of the suggestions!
(4)Sarah L.
Stopped here on a whim on our first visit to Frederick. Great site in the historic City Hall in walkable and trendy downtown, where the citizens of Frederick forked over their ransom to keep the Rebels from burning the place to the ground. Neat building, wonderfully restored, cool decorations. Beer was good- husband had Maibock, with which he was very impressed, I had oatmeal stout, which was not out-of-the-ordinary, but was really solid and tasty. Had a crab dip appetizer, chips were not homemade, but dip was very good with big crab pieces. Hubby had roast beef sandwich, piled high with real roast beef, also came with soup, also good. I had new menu item upon waiter recommendation - CA Chicken - very good, whole grain local bread, fresh avocados and chicken breast. Very good overall, extremely friendly service and a very good welcome to a very neat historic city. Recommend stopping in!
(4)Tiffany J.
They get two stars instead of one because I was here twice. The first night I went for a beer and the service was horrible. The bartender was rude and so was the waitress who refused to let us sit on the patio, even though there were other people out there drinking. *shrug* Don't know. The second night was alright - sat down for dinner. The food was so-so, nothing amazing, the beer was good and the service wasn't horrible, just sub-par.
(2)Nazzarena L.
Casual athmosphere, this comfy microbrew is a relatively popular family locale. I have been here for lab lunches, not disliked it, so I brought my friends over after they moved me, and dined on the patio with another friend from London who's my detector for when my european upbringing are obfuscated by the habits aquired in all these american years. So test passed. Of course I never have the pizza, but why should I. Best to stick to dignitous burger and ribs, or Thursday lobster.
(3)Melanie F.
Black bean burger is good. Beer is very good. Nachos - skip (taste good but very over priced)
(4)Rade M.
Great beer selection. I had a delicious India pale ale. Didn't try the food, but the menu had some good looking options. Will be back for the food.
(4)Adri Q.
Great beer, including their India pale ale that recently won silver at an international brewing competition, and food. Had the sweet potato fries, which were awesome, and the roasted vegetable salad with DELICIOUS goat cheese fritters.
(4)Seth R.
Have to say the Thursday Special of a 10 oz New York strip paired with a full 1 &1/4 pound lobster for $25 is about the best deal I have ever heard of! The steak was excellent-perfectly cooked and tender. The lobster was extremely tasty and much larger than I had envisioned. You can bet that I will be returning on a Thursday for the special!
(4)Rebecca S.
Went out for dinner with my husband's work colleagues here and everyone enjoyed themselves. There were several appetizers ordered, all were yummy- especially the calamari. My husband and I are beer snobs and were pleased with our beers. I had the porter which was quite nice. They had whole steamed lobsters for only $13 that evening on special and everyone but me got them. I tasted a claw and it was cooked well- not rubbery, just right. I ordered the house-made sausage dish with au gratin taters and sauteed apples and onions. It was extremely gnosh-tastic (ie, tasty to the Nth power)- the flavors were rich, complex and well-balanced and everything was cooked perfectly. I'm sure my hubbie and I will end up at this place again if we ever leave the house under our own auspices.
(4)Wade L.
Excellent beer, made by the owner (now offsite, which is fine as it makes for more room in the bar area) and sold at great prices. The food uses excellent ingredients and is never bad, I've tried many things over the past 2 years and it has all been very well made. Wait staff is hit or miss, but never rude, just somewhat inexperienced. Highly recommended.
(5)Lester H.
Okay, let me preface this by saying I only visited once, so far. I had to travel to NW MD for business from Boston. It was a quick trip, only 26 hours there and back again. Anyway, I checked the reviews on Yelp and decided to hit up Brewer's Alley. Let me tell you, I've never seen so many people out on a Monday!? I swear, the place was absolutely filled with beautiful women. I was with the company brass and short on time, but I was absolutely impressed. I enjoyed my meal, although the mashed potatoes with my blackened salmon was subpar. More importantly, I thought the beer was delicious. The hefweizen wasn't to my liking, but the pilsner and IPA were very good. Hopefully, I'll have to come back. Well...since I'm the person that often schedules these meetings, I will be back.
(4)Ben M.
Very cool old building right in the middle of the historic district. They have a big menu with some pretty solid vegetarian options. The black bean burger was pretty good, but it is pretty much a big ole patty of black beans. So, it's a veggie burger in name only. Obviously the beer menu is extremely solid.
(4)Adam S.
Thought this place was pretty good. Have some friends that are regular Happy Hour goers here, so my friend and I ended up having dinner here. I got the BBQ chicken pizza and my friend had the white pizza, both were good; however waaaay too many onions on the BBQ chicken pizza. Ended up trying a couple different beers although I don't remember the names of them(it was that good of a night). I am sure I'll be back.
(3)Brian S.
I agree with the previous review on this one. The menu always looks so good as I walk by, but then I remember how bad the execution of it is every time. The beer is decent and the ambiance is good, but overall I have never left this place satisfied. The one huge upside is the outdoor patio, very nice in the spring and fall.
(2)Jessi L.
We love to come here in the summer for pizza and beers on the patio! Their kolsch and hefeweizen are my fav! The patio is a great place to hang out and people watch. The food is ok but the vibe, beer, and people always keeps us coming back! This place is usually the starting or end point of our Frederick nights out! Pretty much a staple. I love how open and huge the bar area is after their recent renovations!
(3)Joe W.
I eat and drink here at least once a week since it's so close to where we live. The house made beer is good, not outstanding but generally pretty true to style and the price can't be beat. I'm a bit of a beer snob and have been home brewing for well over a decade, so my standards are a bit higher than some, so you might find the beer to be great. $3 for pints normally, specials and happy hour are even better, so honestly they have the best beer deal in town as far as I'm concerned. The brick oven pizza is great and it's one of the few places around that you can get food and beer (important combo) after 9pm (not the full menu though, only what goes in the brick oven). The regular menu is pretty good and the specials usually are too. Great patio for outside seating and people watching when the weather is nice. They'd get a very solid 4 stars if the service was more consistent. It can be good or it can be spotty. Management really needs to work on this but since they are usually pretty busy maybe they don't care. I seem to keep coming back, so maybe that's what everyone else does too. The bar can get really smoky and you need to walk through it to get to the dining room, but that will all end 2/1/2008, so it's almost not worth mentioning at this point.
(3)Justin H.
Not bad. Had one of their seasonal beers from the cask. Some dark number with hints of maple syrup. Was delicious. Wings and pizza were good, but the real get was the jalapeño & cheese stuffed pretzel with spicey Dijon mustard dip.
(3)Edmond G.
Solid American fare, high quality and good, casual service. Great beer but weak wine list. New larger bar area is really great. Pizza is unbelievably good with the wood fired oven.
(5)Maria W.
Fun, young afterwork hangout. Comfortable outdoor seating with standard brewpub fare. Would be perfect if they would just fix the dang ATM machine.
(3)Greg S.
We have been going here for 7 years now, and the one thing I can say about it is it's never the same. The beer is always good and the food is generally good but always different. Don't begin to like something and want it again because it will be gone. The food really is good, just slightly overpriced as are all of the eateries in Frederick.
(3)Brian M.
I decided to try Brewer's Alley based on the strength of some of the reviews. I should have passed. I had the English IPA. Who knew that English was code for bland and watery. Come to think of it, I probably should have. I had the falafel fritters for starters. They were gooey inside. I had the Crabcake sandwich, which was large and meaty, but bland, as well. I will not regret not going again.
(2)Jay L.
This ain't a restaurant, it's a nice bar that serves food if you get hungry while you get hammered. Don't come here to eat, come to drink because their food and food service is shitty.
(2)Amy T.
Brewer's gives a good twist to a typical brew-pub menu. There is a great list of microbrew beers made on site. Unfortunately, they close relatively early for a bar, but late for a restaurant, making the transition between the family diners and the night owl nosh seekers kind of akward and rushed.
(3)Linda N.
Brewers Alley is a good, reliable place in downtown Frederick with a friendly atmosphere, a predictable menu and great beer. Unfortunately you don't want to be seated in the "room with a view" (the fishbowl room) in the summer because it gets very hot.
(3)L O.
Inevitably I go to this restaurant a few times a year--mostly in the summer because they've got the monopoly on outdoor seating in Frederick. And inevitably I am disappointed by the food. The ceasar salad is nearly inedible because of the amount of garlic, even to those who like garlic. The wraps are edible, but the chain restaurants do a much better job and a far more consistent. I try to avoid the main dinners, because they are over priced and always let down. My advice: Go for the beer, but don't stay for the food.
(2)D H.
We had the crab cakes and mac'n cheese. The food was OK, but the service and atmosphere were great.
(3)Wade L.
Excellent beer, made by the owner (now offsite, which is fine as it makes for more room in the bar area) and sold at great prices. The food uses excellent ingredients and is never bad, I've tried many things over the past 2 years and it has all been very well made. Wait staff is hit or miss, but never rude, just somewhat inexperienced. Highly recommended.
(5)Lester H.
Okay, let me preface this by saying I only visited once, so far. I had to travel to NW MD for business from Boston. It was a quick trip, only 26 hours there and back again. Anyway, I checked the reviews on Yelp and decided to hit up Brewer's Alley. Let me tell you, I've never seen so many people out on a Monday!? I swear, the place was absolutely filled with beautiful women. I was with the company brass and short on time, but I was absolutely impressed. I enjoyed my meal, although the mashed potatoes with my blackened salmon was subpar. More importantly, I thought the beer was delicious. The hefweizen wasn't to my liking, but the pilsner and IPA were very good. Hopefully, I'll have to come back. Well...since I'm the person that often schedules these meetings, I will be back.
(4)Ben M.
Very cool old building right in the middle of the historic district. They have a big menu with some pretty solid vegetarian options. The black bean burger was pretty good, but it is pretty much a big ole patty of black beans. So, it's a veggie burger in name only. Obviously the beer menu is extremely solid.
(4)Adam S.
Thought this place was pretty good. Have some friends that are regular Happy Hour goers here, so my friend and I ended up having dinner here. I got the BBQ chicken pizza and my friend had the white pizza, both were good; however waaaay too many onions on the BBQ chicken pizza. Ended up trying a couple different beers although I don't remember the names of them(it was that good of a night). I am sure I'll be back.
(3)Brian S.
I agree with the previous review on this one. The menu always looks so good as I walk by, but then I remember how bad the execution of it is every time. The beer is decent and the ambiance is good, but overall I have never left this place satisfied. The one huge upside is the outdoor patio, very nice in the spring and fall.
(2)Jessi L.
We love to come here in the summer for pizza and beers on the patio! Their kolsch and hefeweizen are my fav! The patio is a great place to hang out and people watch. The food is ok but the vibe, beer, and people always keeps us coming back! This place is usually the starting or end point of our Frederick nights out! Pretty much a staple. I love how open and huge the bar area is after their recent renovations!
(3)Joe W.
I eat and drink here at least once a week since it's so close to where we live. The house made beer is good, not outstanding but generally pretty true to style and the price can't be beat. I'm a bit of a beer snob and have been home brewing for well over a decade, so my standards are a bit higher than some, so you might find the beer to be great. $3 for pints normally, specials and happy hour are even better, so honestly they have the best beer deal in town as far as I'm concerned. The brick oven pizza is great and it's one of the few places around that you can get food and beer (important combo) after 9pm (not the full menu though, only what goes in the brick oven). The regular menu is pretty good and the specials usually are too. Great patio for outside seating and people watching when the weather is nice. They'd get a very solid 4 stars if the service was more consistent. It can be good or it can be spotty. Management really needs to work on this but since they are usually pretty busy maybe they don't care. I seem to keep coming back, so maybe that's what everyone else does too. The bar can get really smoky and you need to walk through it to get to the dining room, but that will all end 2/1/2008, so it's almost not worth mentioning at this point.
(3)Justin H.
Not bad. Had one of their seasonal beers from the cask. Some dark number with hints of maple syrup. Was delicious. Wings and pizza were good, but the real get was the jalapeño & cheese stuffed pretzel with spicey Dijon mustard dip.
(3)Edmond G.
Solid American fare, high quality and good, casual service. Great beer but weak wine list. New larger bar area is really great. Pizza is unbelievably good with the wood fired oven.
(5)Maria W.
Fun, young afterwork hangout. Comfortable outdoor seating with standard brewpub fare. Would be perfect if they would just fix the dang ATM machine.
(3)Greg S.
We have been going here for 7 years now, and the one thing I can say about it is it's never the same. The beer is always good and the food is generally good but always different. Don't begin to like something and want it again because it will be gone. The food really is good, just slightly overpriced as are all of the eateries in Frederick.
(3)Brian M.
I decided to try Brewer's Alley based on the strength of some of the reviews. I should have passed. I had the English IPA. Who knew that English was code for bland and watery. Come to think of it, I probably should have. I had the falafel fritters for starters. They were gooey inside. I had the Crabcake sandwich, which was large and meaty, but bland, as well. I will not regret not going again.
(2)Jay L.
This ain't a restaurant, it's a nice bar that serves food if you get hungry while you get hammered. Don't come here to eat, come to drink because their food and food service is shitty.
(2)Amy T.
Brewer's gives a good twist to a typical brew-pub menu. There is a great list of microbrew beers made on site. Unfortunately, they close relatively early for a bar, but late for a restaurant, making the transition between the family diners and the night owl nosh seekers kind of akward and rushed.
(3)Linda N.
Brewers Alley is a good, reliable place in downtown Frederick with a friendly atmosphere, a predictable menu and great beer. Unfortunately you don't want to be seated in the "room with a view" (the fishbowl room) in the summer because it gets very hot.
(3)L O.
Inevitably I go to this restaurant a few times a year--mostly in the summer because they've got the monopoly on outdoor seating in Frederick. And inevitably I am disappointed by the food. The ceasar salad is nearly inedible because of the amount of garlic, even to those who like garlic. The wraps are edible, but the chain restaurants do a much better job and a far more consistent. I try to avoid the main dinners, because they are over priced and always let down. My advice: Go for the beer, but don't stay for the food.
(2)D H.
We had the crab cakes and mac'n cheese. The food was OK, but the service and atmosphere were great.
(3)Ann S.
Good beer, yummy Blue Point oysters, okay salads, nice evening w/ the peeps kinda place.
(4)Laurie W.
Brewer's Alley is okay - fun if you're in the mood for hanging out and don't mind a little noise. Let me just say first of all that I am very fond of Frederick, so I'm generally in a good mood when I drive up to go out downtown. I went back to Brewer's Alley last night to meet some friends "halfway" who were coming from a bit farther west and east from Baltimore, so it's a good place to meet in the middle. There are lots of dining options on Market Street, but one of my friends suggested Brewer's and it was fine with me. I'd last been there with a big group for a pre-bachelorette party dinner, and it had been really fun. I always forget that smoking is allowed in Frederick County/City bars and restaurants, but that's going to change this February when the statewide ban goes into effect, as a friendly guy at the bar reminded me. I had the Kolsch, which was okay - a little bit warm, which doesn't thrill me. Another friend had the Oatmeal Stout, and there were some mixed drinks consumed at our table as well - I didn't hear any complaints about those, and they looked pretty strong, if that's your thing. Happy hour beers are three bucks, so nothing wrong with that. We stayed for dinner, and our waiter was funny and accommodating. It was so hot in the restaurant (at least to me) that I had trouble deciding on what to eat. Everything's a bit...heavy, but it's a brewpub so that's no shock. I had the steak and iceberg salad. The meat wasn't the greatest - fresh but pretty tough and more fat than I care for (especially on top of a salad. Yuck.) The dressing was good, though, so all in all it was a step up from mediocre. My friends ordered the meatloaf, a barbecue sandwich, and an Asian salad (I think that's what it was, although I'm not sure what was in it that made it Asian, besides those crunchy noodles on the top.) The shoestring fries looked good. I'd go for the meatloaf if I went again and wasn't feeling like dinner was a huge hot flash not at all solved by the dining room ceiling fans. I'd much rather have sat outside since it was a nice night, but the tables were full. The bar is packed on the weekends and - as noted - is smoke city. If that's okay with you, and you like mob scenes, this could be your spot. Bar seating is very limited, but they didn't seem to care that we sat at our table nursing drinks long after we were done eating. Warning - during the week after a certain time, they stop serving any food but pizza. The pizza, thankfully, is one of the better options on the menu, so you're safe. Overall this isn't a bad choice for a casual meal and a beer.
(3)Nathaniel L.
Went here last night and enjoyed it very much! There's an outdoor patio where you can enjoy the weather if it's nice. We ate inside since we had a large group including a child. The cheese-filled pretzel appetizer is delicious and the sweet potato fries that come with the ribs are great! Someone said the nut brown beer was very good too.
(3)Jes S.
Great place to drink. As for food... eh. If you get hungry while you're drinking, it's definitely passable. But I wouldn't go here JUST for the food. They do a great job with what they have, but the final product just doesn't taste fresh and "crisp"; flavors are flat and one-dimensional. I've had a few sandwiches with fries, and once took a chance on the lamb chops when a friend really wanted to eat here. I must say I was surprised at how well they did the lamb chops. Not that they were fantastic, but better than I expected. I guess you'd say that, for bar food, it's pretty good. For real food, not so. Service is pretty outstanding: friendly, prompt, and on top of things even on wildly busy nights. It sucks that you often have to wait upwards of 15 minutes for a table, or even a seat on the bar, but that just goes to show how popular the place is. I once had a credit card issue here when I was overcharged as the result of a bill-splitting-with-friends mistake by the waitress. I called the manager and he kept me up-to-date about every 15 minutes (for over 2 hours) until his accountant had fixed the problem (at about 10 PM on a weeknight). And no, the friend I split the bill with wasn't charged the amount that was taken off my receipt. Nor was the waitress' tip docked. I was impressed. As a result, I think the management is excellent. Atmosphere... For drinking, it's pubbishly outstanding. For eating in the dining areas, rather a cheap, kitschy, pathetic imitation of a German Brauhaus. All in all, great for some liquor, a snack, and good rowdy times. For a really enjoyable meal, North Market has better options.
(3)J A.
Service: F Food: F Beer: A- Same people own Isabellas, so no surprise that both suck.
(1)Suze B.
I love this place!! The food is delicious, as well as the drinks. The atmosphere is just right for that kind of restaurant. I highly recommend eating here during your trip to Frederick.
(4)Guy S.
The beer is good and the atmosphere is pretty cool. I rarely go out now that I have a kid, but when I do I usually go here. The only problem is that it's pretty smoky as are all bars in Old Town Frederick.
(4)Christine W.
my friend and i ran over to this place (literally- pouring rain!) looking for a bite to eat. we decided to share a pizza. mmm... brick oven goodness. the crust is crisp and so chewy. the rest of the menu didn't really hold my interest. i thought the atmosphere at the bar and decor were nice, but the waiter was too busy chatting it up with other staff members.
(3)Oj M.
Great place to hang out in Frederick. I tried the Meatless Sloppy Joe - the sauce was made w/ more sugar than tomato. I will stick with pizza from next time. If you get a sandwich or burger, get sweet potato fries as a side - they were yummy. We usually site in the dining area, but on Saturday night we stayed in the bar and the music was way too loud - maybe bc it was a Sat night?
(3)Luisita S.
The menu at Brewer's Alley is always more appetizing than the actual food. If you stick with the sandwiches or salads, you'll do well. Anything more complicated is beyond the kitchen's capabilities.
(2)Heather H.
Five stars!!! Five for the delicious Pepperoni and goat cheese pizza, five for the Lamb and potatoes, five for the chocolate brownie and creme brule desert, five for the wine and beer, and five for the great service even know she was busting her ass!! 2nd time here and can't wait to go back, everything has perfect taste. They have a variety to choose from, they also have patio seating! This is great place to have amazing food and still have a good time with your family and friends or a casual date night!! The best part was it was only $62 for all food!! Prices are reasonable!! I'm all about good food and I highly recommend this place!
(5)Jules K.
Yeah. So. I find it hard to downrate an independent brewery, but this isn't 3 solid stars, this is three because I can't give 2.5 stars. If I hadn't had a beer, it would be 2 stars because I can't give 1.5. At any rate, don't be fooled by the prices, the place is really casual, almost run down. Like many businesses in Frederick, I assume this was another restaurant before its current incarnation and BA moved in without making many changes to the dining room. Or they bought all of their furniture used. The food. It was OK. But just OK, part of it was the pricing, which suggested something better than OK, but we were hungry. So now you're like - Wait, meh interior, meh food. What about the service? So, I know waiting tables is an incredibly hard job. Both physically and mentally taxing. I really admire people who can go all day, smiling through the amount of idiocy and outright rudeness they must endure from various dimwits and creeps, without stuffing a blue plate special up a nostril or two. BUT. The service at this place, what gives? It wasn't busy, there were several empty tables and there were often members of the wait staff just sort of hanging around. But the person waiting our table made us feel really rushed to eat and get out. Also, she didn't tell us about the different prices for beer (1.50 for 5 oz) and the samplers etc. I learned about this after we'd placed our order when I heard another waiter telling the party at the table beside ours. Perhaps this is crazy talk, but in a brewery, I would have expected every waiter to talk up the suds. However, based on observation when we left, our inopportune arrival had interrupted an important conversation with some co-workers. That's faux pas we won't commit again! Call it 2 stars for the beer, 1 star for everything else. You've been warned.
(3)Natasha P.
Went here a while ago because a friend was having a birthday dinner here. Everyone in Frederick talks about this place and I don't understand why. The fried pickles are great but that's it. Everything else was basic with little to no seasoning. I only gave it two stars because one was for the waitress she was nice the other star was for the pickles.
(2)Sarah B.
Great building and even better food! The Quail and calamari special had interesting flavors that surprised me. I would come back more than once!!
(5)Ashley S.
This place was fun when I was 21 and used to hit up Market Street but now that I actually go for the food this is what the review will be about. My husband and I went for lunch a few weeks ago. Ordered a rum and coke and him a beer. The drink was super light and you couldn't taste any alcohol. We ordered the crab dip as an appetizer. They fail to mention on the menu that it's crab purée. Seriously. It's a creamy dip. We were told that they actually blend the crab and bake it. Not for us. We like to see our crab in out dip. Ordered a burger medium and it came to me rare. Like the burger was kind of cold in the middle rare. My husband ordered a steak and that was rare as well instead of med-rare. Not a super big deal on the steak but at this point we were quite over this place.
(1)Allan R.
One of my favorite spots in Frederick. For Drinking: I'm a beer lover and they make their own beer. Their beer is pretty good. Their hard alcohol menu is even better (though I generally just drool over it and order beer)/ For eating: Their food is great. Their Reuben made me fall in love. Their pizzas are interesting and delicious. I've been here in groups of varying sizes around a dozen times now, and it's been rare that anyone hasn't enjoyed their food. Atmosphere: Brewer's Alley seems to attract a pretty young partying crowd. Each to their own, but that's not my crowd, and their bar area gets so packed I don't even want to get near it. But if you eat outside, or ask for a table indoors, the ambiance is very nice.
(5)Katie W.
This place is just okay in my opinion. Our waitress, Kay, was very enthusiastic and passionate about her job. Her service was attentive and she did talk us into getting a beer and the Mac and cheese (the star of our meal). The Macaroni and cheese is simply delicious and 5 stars, but the burger and French dip-like sandwich was just okay. Atmosphere is dingy unless outside. Says it gets local ingredients which is cool, but food is really just okay. Service was super quick and our waitress got us the Mac and cheese before our meals (we wanted it as an appetizer) even though we ordered it 5-10 minutes after placing our dinner meals in, which was great!
(3)Ashley G.
Okay beers, but a pretty tired restaurant. You know the places where the tables will just always be a little sticky? That's Brewer's Alley: Nothing special. Also, I was there in April and they were still serving Octoberfest. No thanks!
(2)Patt M.
We are visiting; we took our family with 3 grandchildren to dinner. We had all been here once before and had a wonderful experience. Our waitperson was friendly and personable but inefficient. The 4 adult dinners arrived along with one hamburger from the regular menu. The chicken fingers and grilled cheese from the children's menu did not arrive. When we finally called this to our waitperson' attention, the order had never been placed!!!!! Inexcusable for young children. Fortunately these girls nibbled on other's French fries and pizza while they waited. Everyone had finished eating by the time their dinners arrived. I am not sure if we will return to Brewer's Alley during our next visit. The food was good but the service very poor. Our waitperson seemed knowledgable but possibly needs more experience???
(2)mark s.
We went for perhaps our 3rd time in a year last night. In prior visits we have had decent burgers and pizza. Last night I tried the Thursday sirloin special and 2 others had the lobster special. What a loss of an evening. The drinks (my son is a bartender so knows a bit on the subject were 1. weak (could absolutely not taste the martini) and 2. Badly made (manhattan. Moving right along the Caesar salads were terrible, under dressed and bland unappealing sights. My steak was perhaps 1/2 inch think, covered with a sauce that was too strong and I guess intended in covering up the overcooked meat (which was ordered medium rare). The lobster was "horrible" to quote my wife and "rubbery". This restaurant group did such a nice job at Acacia (now gone) and with Ayse Meze is popular, although not my favorite. I guess it's best to stick with beer and burgers/pizza at Brewers. But venturing beyond that was a big mistake for us.
(1)Kristen H.
I've been here a few times when I venture into downtown Frederick, which is a fun up-and-coming area. There's always new restaurants popping up to try. This one has been a staple though, always providing a tasty home brewed beer selection. The last time I came here I decided to be vegetarian for the day and get the black bean burger with mushroom soup on the side. The flavoring the both the burger and soup was great, I would just say that the texture of the black bean burger needs to be more well blended and firmer. When I took a bite out of it, a third of it spewed out the other end of my burger, kind of messy to deal with. I would definitely still come back here another time for sure. I like the lively atmosphere of the bar area, always a good time!
(4)Ali C.
I really loved my food here! I can't recall the exact name of my order but I had Salmon with a tomato risotto. It was very good. Not over cooked or undercooked which is somewhat difficult to find with Salmon and risotto. Good service and nice ambience.
(5)Susanne A.
Comfortable brewpub food. Really good crab cakes with fresh vegetables and a huge portion of mashed potatoes. Brewed iced tea. Hamburger looked good even if ordered well done. Pasta with mussels was generous,
(3)Sarah S.
This was a lovely place for dinner for our one night in Frederick! We got the crab dip as an appetizer to start and it was lovely, not the best I had ever had but it was a close second! I definitely recommend it if you're a crab person. My grandmother and I split the crab cake dinner and it was the perfect amount of food with veggies and mashed potatoes on the side. Grand daddy got the shrimp and grits which I was too scared to get because it said jalapeño grits but it wasn't too spicy at all it was delicious! The dinner along with a glass of wine and a great ambiance and excellent service made for a great experience!
(4)John M.
In town for a wedding. Stopped here for lunch. Ordered the lunch special with trout. Perfection. Just sayin...
(4)Stacie C.
"We're a brewery first," said our waiter. A good thing, considering we were there mostly for the beer and kind of for some food. With the idea that this is a brewery (and promotes itself as "the first brewery in Frederick County"), I'm not sure what atmosphere they are going for exactly. It doesn't really feel like a pub but didn't seem really inviting as a restaurant, either. Either way, I enjoyed the variety of beers. The fried pickles and margherita pizza also hit the spot. I'm torn on whether or not this is a place I'd recommend. I guess inevitably I would say if you're looking to try some good beer, check it out knowing they have decent food if you're also in the mood for bar food. But I wouldn't recommend it as a dinner-only type of place.
(3)Amy S.
This is our go-to place when ever we have friends in town. The oysters are a favorite, though about 50% of the time they aren't shucked properly (still good flavor though). Lobster night is also a favorite. In terms of drinks if you're getting mixed drink, try to keep to the standards. Or just get beer, it's always good (they are a brewery after all). A good place if you want consistent good food for a decent price.
(4)Beata K.
Good local restaurant/bar. Been here a few times and really like the fried pickles and the burgers ( black bean one is very good as well as the regular burger). I'd suggest getting the sweet potato fries...well worth the extra charge. We also got the wings and they were pretty good, wouldn't come here just for the wings but they're good as an app. I don't drink beer but the hubby and some friends tell me it's pretty good here. I'd give this place 3.5 stars if I could primarily because it smells fishy inside the restaurant. Sit outside if you can as it's a nice view.
(3)T K.
Got into brewers at 910 ordered a special,,, airline chicken,,, which was supposed to have ham cheese bbq sauce,,, restaurant was maybe a quarter full. I inquired where my food was my waitress said they were busy closing the kitchen,,, that was the hold up,,,, finally at 10 ,,,, 50 minutes later finally dinner comes ,,,,, great a 2,5 ounce overcooked chicken breast with no ham no cheese like the special said. The portion was so small it looked like a pigeon breast,,, awful just awful ,,,, this place has really gone downhill if you have a choice dont go here. Lucky corner up the street rocks. Why stay open for food late if there gonna serve you garbage??? Too bad white star is closed :)
(1)Michelle N.
Love this place! This is our go to spot when we want some great food and beer. We always come here atleast once a week. The staff are always so friendly and welcoming. Definately recommend!
(5)Carol N.
Husband and I were in town for a friend's wedding and she recommended this place. We hit up Barley and Hops to taste their beers first and were not impressed (beer was good, spinach dip appetizer was disgusting). We were pleasantly surprised with this place, however. Good beer (I had the Two Loves Chocolate-YUMM, husband had the Three Kings Spiced Ale), not a long wait for dinner on a Friday night (20 mins), good food (but just a bit too much), great service. Our waiter was attentive and not pushy given how busy it was. And he looked a lot like Edward Norton which is always a plus. We came back with friends for a drink after the ceremony and pre-reception. Found a seat in the bar and had good service, a nice view of the busy Market Street and enjoyed some good brews. I would definitely go back next time we're in town.
(5)Bethany E.
I was in Frederick with a friend. We decided to walk around the cute little downtown area. There are great shops and boutiques to explore. Brewers Alley is a great pub with specialty beers. We weren't in the drinking mood at the time but wanted to grab a bite to eat. There is plenty of spacious seating with indoor and outdoor options. We had started out with the Maryland Crab and Pablano Chili Cheese Dip. I couldn't get enough of this! I loved the crab pieces in this cheesy dish of heaven! I would have licked the bowl if it wasn't frowned upon! This dip is so tasty and flavorful! As Rachael Ray would say... YUM-O! For my meal I ordered the Opera House Chopped Salad. As I do at most places, I order the Cobb Salad. This might as well been a Cobb since it had the same ingredients. It was delicious! I ordered their vinaigrette on the side which also complemented the salad. The service was just ok but I always try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. You never know what is going on in their lives and I don't want to criticize. We've all had those days. All in all, this is a great place to stop in downtown Frederick. Plus it's nice there is a parking garage right behind the place!
(4)Nicole G.
Any restaurant that can put together a table for 12 people and roll with the punches smoothly is great in my eyes! I got to sample some of the wings and the goat cheese and apple pizza. Both were great! Other friends had cocktails and beer, and even a few shooters. I wish I like oysters because those who got them were raving! I also tried a bite of a delicious reuben another friend ordered. Great food, great service, and very accommodating! A perfect lunch spot before exploring Frederick.
(4)Kyle D.
First time here and the experience was just as bad as going to McDonalds at 12 am with Oscar the grouch as your server. I made reservations and was seated almost right away. The server was fairly rude but he seemed to cheer up a little over time. The pizza was delicious! It did come to the table cold. I'd give this place another shot but it may be a while.
(3)Sonya P.
The food can be hit or miss depending on menu items. Best time to go is for happy hour because they have excellent specials, sometime free food, and good service. The bar area can get rowdy but that's typical. The tap beers are just ok, but the sampler is fun and an affordable way to pick your brew.
(4)Mary M.
I reserved a table on a Saturday at 6:00 for a co-worker's bachelorette party. Everyone found something they liked on the menu and seemed to enjoy their meals. I had the crab dip and the fish and chips, both of which were excellent. I saw someone below stated that the crab dip was a pure - this was not the case us.. It had an excellent flavor and lots of big chunks of crab meat. Our "bachelorette" had selected Brewers because she particularly liked one of their specialty pizzas. Although it had been removed from the menu, when she asked the waiter about it he checked with the kitchen and they agreed to make it for her anyway. We were in no hurry to leave as we were chatting, opening gifts and playing some games. I should have let them know when I made the reservation that we planned to stay for a while - but I didn't (my mistake.) It was a busy night for them and they had booked another group for the table at 8:00. We were done with our dinners but still going strong. The manager came over to talk to us and very nicely let us know that had booked another group for 8:00. She said if we didn't not mind moving she would be happy to try to make some space for us at the bar - we were fine with this. Unfortunately, the bar was apparently packed. However, she came up with an even better solution - one of their upstairs banquet rooms was not in use and she offered to move us up there and provide us with a server. This turned out to be awesome, as we had the whole room to ourselves and excellent service. We stayed a couple more hours and really enjoyed ourselves. The manager even brought us all shots to apologize which was not expected. Turns out the party waiting for the table after us was that of another of our co-workers who was there for her sister's birthday. Apparently they were given free appetizers to make up for having to wait an extra 15 minutes for the table. We were truly impressed with how the manager handled what could have been a very difficult situation and made everyone happy. The staff was awesome across the board. We would absolutely return for a party - of course we'd let them know how long we planned to stay this time. Additionally I would be happy to return with family for a dinner out anytime.
(5)Justin C.
Come on guys, fourteen bucks for a burger, you could at least give a salad and a side with that. Food was good though, don't get me wrong, except maybe the pizza which looks and tastes like the frozen ones you get at the grocery store and make at home. Bartenders can be a little jerky too unless your a regular. Their beers are good but a little pricey unless you go at happy hour or something, decent place and fun to come to now and then, but it can be a money pit if you stay any amount of time. Overall, if you ask me the place is a little pretentious for what it is. Pretty small bar area that gets packed on weekend nights, most times there will be no place to sit. Its ok, and fun to go to now and then but I just dont get some peoples obsession with this place. Im heading over to Firestones...
(3)LaKisha P.
Great service. Beer selection is great. Food is good, but some items aren't as flavorful as I'd prefer. The bar atmosphere is comfortable and the dog patio is a great addition.
(4)M L.
Friend and I went here while exploring downtown Frederick. We roamed around for awhile looking for just the right spot and found this place. The large windows offer a great people-watching venue with a nice cold brew in hand. I originally sat facing away from the window, but ended up sitting next to my friend to face the street, checking out the downtown crowd. The food was pretty good, standard bar fare. The beer selection wasn't bad either with options ranging from local to better known brews. There's something hoppy or more fruity for everyone. The server was great...knowledgeable, personable and attentive. There was also an outside seating area that looked very chill, but it was a hot summer day. I would definitely check out this place again.
(4)Racha H.
My husband and I have been going to Brewer's Alley for a long time. We live in the near by Germantown. The brew there is a draw, but the food is great too. Not the average bar food. There's something for everyone. The woodfire Pizza is also very good. The menu changes some with the season but a few all time fav, like the meatloaf, is always on. Our latest visit was a week ago. We had fried calamary for appetizer. It was fresh and battered and fried just right. Not the frozen stuff some restaurant served. My new personal favourite is the souhthern fried chicken. Very generous portion. The chicken is tender, juicy, and boneless! Sreved with a heap of delish mash potato and white gravy on the top. The gravy was a bit too rich for me. I should have asked for it on the side. The veggie that came with the chicken could have been better because it was the height of summer, instead, the veggie was a soggy disappointing mess. My husband had the lobster. Yes, we were there at Lobster Night ! No surprise there, all good. The lobster came with a salad and fresh crispy fries. Haven't had a bad meal there yet, and hope never, ever will.
(3)M. M.
I stopped here for lunch while in town and found it to be a serviceable brewpub, nothing fancy. Apparently their patio is the big draw - in addition to enjoying nice weather you can take your dog out there (and I did see dogs on the patio). However, be warned the patio is teeny compared with the rest of the restaurant. The patio was of course full with a waiting line, and I had no dog with me, thought it looked like rain, and would just as soon not have to bat bugs away from my plate, so I opted to sit indoors. I got a booth to myself right away in that manner, although it was in a darkish back room of the restaurant which frankly could use an interior decorating upgrade. I didn't get anything adventurous in the way of food, just soup, oysters (they had 2 kinds) and tried a couple of small beers. It's hard to go wrong with oysters. The menu of beers they brew seemed a bit pedestrian - no unusual seasonals or anything - but the beer was good and I got a growler to take home. The server was very attentive. I would eat here again, it's an okay pub lunch stop. But I can see where the patio would fill up fast or pose a problem if a live band was playing, because it is small. Next time I would probably ask to be indoors in the front room where it is better lit and would feel less like eating in someone's finished basement.
(3)Chelsea R.
Edited to one star because a server from there sent me a hateful message. Hope you enjoy watching your rating plummet, guys. First, let me just say that I am not that into pub food. But I went here because the Frederick city website said that I this place is dog friendly. I had my four legged buddy, who weighs approximately 10 lbs, attached to my stroller, which had my baby in it. The hostess immediately looked like a deer in headlights because I had my dog with me, and when I told her that the website said that dogs were welcome, she said that they don't normally allow them because some people on the patio might not like dogs. She also added that they sometimes-only sometimes- have a "dog patio". I guess the moral of the story is to call before you park in a parking garage and walk there. And I wasn't welcome to bring my stroller with my child in it on to the patio, either. If you're in a wheelchair, I guess you're out of luck. You'll take up far too much room and the waitress will get snippy. On to the food-I had a "Sunday Special" mimosa which was made with something cheap and the thinnest orange juice I've ever seen. Not a great presentation. I had the fish and chips and it was ok, except that the chips were cold, which isn't surprising because we waited for a long time for our food. The batter is flavorless and crumbly on the fish, and the tarter sauce was closer to an aioli than any tartar sauce I've ever had. It is so runny you can pour it out, and it smells of horseradish. The entire visit took 90 minutes and they weren't even very busy. There were also other people waiting with dogs, but I didn't stick around to find out how they were treated. In summary, this is my second trip to Brewer's Alley and I will probably try the other more dog friendly spots downtown next time.
(1)Dean W.
We ordered the Quattro Fromaggio Pizza (it came with blue cheese!); it had a really yummy crust. Also the crab cake was very good, Very tasty long island and baked mac N cheese.
(5)Mary B.
If you need a place to eat that caters to several different taste palettes (and perhaps a picky kid) Brewers is a great choice. There's a reason this place is always packed. The food is good, the beer they brew is great (try their kolsch- mmmm) and the atmosphere is lively. Unless you get there early, plan to never get a seat at the bar- it's just too busy. The old charm of the building itself plus being right in the Heart of Downtown Frederick makes it a good place to bring out of towners. Plus it's so big- you can almost always be seated without a reservation, except maybe for First Saturdays. For food, I enjoy their fish & chips. They also hVe great wood fired pizzas and big salads. For kids there's s ton of stuff. In the summers they open out onto their parking lot and have a pooch patio. They have live music out there, too. We enjoy bringing our dog down and having dinner there. Other people must, too, because it's always filled with pups and their owners.
(5)Keith L.
Food is good. Patio is nice, however they allow smokers to smoke directly next to the patio. I said something to my server and nothing was done about it. They didn't care that it bothered us. Other tables were complaining also. If you don't like to breath in second hand smoke, eat inside.
(3)Ze W.
This is probably a great place for beer- I liked the space and friendly service, but sadly the food was just not desirable. We had fried fish tacos, fried chicken sandwich, and steak salad with fried onions- everything fried (all of it) tasted of old frying oil, and overfried. I just couldn't eat it. Really disappointing, but if I were to ever be back, I'd stick with the beer. Four stars for friendliness and accommodation; 2 for actual food... Oh, but I'd forgotten about the chicken soup, which I loved. I'd come back for soup and beer, if anyone ever forced me back...
(3)Calvin M.
The beer is cheap. Good place to hang out and drink a few. The food, I'm not impressed. Had the fried scrod and falafel. Just wasn't impressed. The fish was very greasy. I'll come back for the beer.
(3)Rick G.
Great place for quick snack, dinner, to meet for drinks. A place for your 4 legged friends a porch for doggies when the weather is good ... A place to hang, or dine ----- one of the best places in Frederick
(5)David M.
I just wasn't a fan. It came highly recommended, and I had been here once before for a quick lunch, but that was years ago. This visit was not impressive. The main dining room was small and had that look about it as if it has not been updated since the mid 80's. The bar area looked pretty nice , but for this trip we were only passing through it. The beer was decent taste-wise, but flat. As if their co2 cans were spent. I had two different kinds. Both were flat. And one was a Pilsner, you beer snot. ;) I reckon I should have seen a bubble or two in that. The sandwiches we got were simply lame. I had the brewer's hoagie. My wife had the brisket sandwich. Boring. Both of them. Our server was just off. He was perhaps about to get off work soon since he seemed to be rushing us along. I had a handful of sandwich and he came and took my plate away lol. He asked us "uhm. You all don't want dessert, do you?" We didn't. But it was so awkward. That, and the sweeping around our table. It was just weird. I doubt highly we will wind up going back.
(2)m. o.
Pretty good brewpub food, as long as you're prepared to wait quite a bit on a weekend to get a table, and then subsequently to get served your meal. If you do go, recommend sitting outside if it is nice or in the front room (rather than the back room) if you eat inside. The back room is devoid of character and noisy. The burgers and chicken BLT was good food and good value. The service was okay.
(3)Kacie D.
Went for a beer- my husband ordered his and it smelled/tasted horrible. Bartender never came back to ask me what I would like to drink and then charged my husband for his beer that he didn't touch- not even asking if something was wrong. Our 2nd time going there and dealing with this very unpleasant bartender.
(1)Jack R.
Is the food as good as some of the nearby restaurants? Not quite, but it's close enough, and the prices are better than all of its high-quality neighbors. But the beer. Oh goodness the beer. Unfortunately Brewer's hasn't found a way to sustain a bar population most nights, so this is not going to be your final destination. However, should you be looking to go out downtown, you should start here 100 out of 100 times. Their home-brewed pints are delicious enough to be a premium price, but they still charge under $4 per pint. I can't get a pint of Yuengling at half the bars I go to for $4. The space in the bar used to be a problem. Two years ago the bar was either too dead to enjoy, or full enough that navigation was troublesome. Then they cleared out the tanks and opened up the lobby and boom, problem gone! As a bar, Brewer's needs to figure out how to reach critical mass on nights that aren't Fridays or Saturdays. Once it does that, there will be no reason to go to other bars in Frederick.
(5)Alicia K.
Food and atmosphere were FANTASTIC. I ordered the turkey burger. It was great. The service was extremely slow, however. We were forgotten many times, which was frustrating.
(4)Todd M.
Decent food, but could not find a beer that suited me at all. The beers are lacking in depth and flavor in my opinion. The better beers on tap were from Monacacy brewing. The food was lackluster and average at best. There are a lot better beers and food places in town. It is a good place to watch events though with all the TV's and is a great space. Wish they could up their game a bit.
(2)Jake W.
Great place for Sunday drinks and appetizers while watching the game. My buddy and I got the beer sampler-6 (5oz pour) beers of your choosing for 8 bucks, and the bacon wrapped jalapeños. The jalapeños were amazing. Most of the beer was alright with the exception of the rye pale ale and the stout . Highly recommended for Sunday football.
(4)Richard M.
My wife and I went to brewers alley last weekend for the first time in years for me, she had never been. It was excellent. Got the beer sampler, fried pickles were best we ever had. Their IPA's are awesome. Service was top notch, our entrees were great, try the fish and chips, everything was reasonably priced. We cant wait to go again.
(5)Chef A.
For my last visit, I had lunch with a Japanese photographer friend of mine. We caught up on old times and BS'ed over the future of Leica cameras, Japan's world cup football match, and why people who watch bowling on TV are idiots. He had a crab cake, and I just had a faux Guinness which I did not care for. Having had perfect pints in Dublin, it's a bit hard to drink an American Stout. On a trip prior however I had a pilsner and it was ok. Nothing too special, but I can appreciate the local home brew micro-pubs. Also on the last trip I had a burger, made from buffalo and it was pretty good with no complaints. I like this place to be honest, though it's price point is a slight turn off to me. And the beer was nothing special. Still, it's a ncie place to had a quality meal, and BS with friends.
(3)Ginny S.
25 Aug 2012 5:30 PM Accessibility :Right off Market Street and in the middle of everything! How can you miss it! :) It is also right in front of the parking Garage so if you cannot get parking on the street the Parking Garage is close by! 5 Stars for this location! Customer Service: We were greeted as soon as we entered by really friendly smiles. Our Waiter, Tom U. What a GREAT Guy! Funny and very passionate about the Beers. Hello gave us the entire run down and brought us a couple of samples. Hello brought a couple of kinds to taste. Checked on us frequently. Made some great recommendations for dinner and they did not let us down! We would definitely look for Tom next time and you should too. Definitely a 5 Star Customer Service for this place and visit! Menu: Wow - what is not on the menu! The Chef sure has things right here. Food - I had the Classic Alley Hamburger, Crispy Tobacco Onions and with French Fries. This is a truly wonderful and just one of the best I have had! Wow. If you love a Great Hamburger, get one here! Nice French Fries small slivers and crispy. Just the way I like them. I was not too big of the Onion slivers, but my Husband loved them! So my meal was a definite 5 Stars. My husband had the Fish and Chips, with Cole slaw. The Fish was good, but not a meal He would get again. They gave you one pretty large piece and was not greasy. So it "was good". He did love the French Fries! 3 Stars for him. We were with my Sister and her Husband so we thought we would also get a Desert - We got the very very light Boston Creme Pie. This was really a great way to end the meal. This was really good 5 Stars. My Sister and Husband had Vanilla Ice Cream. I will get this next time! WOW. 5 Stars for that. Beers - How could we come here and not have one of their famous Brewhouse creations! We had - Hefe-Weizen (My personal favorite!) (Perennial Seasonal Beer) A light Weizen beer. This was a great Beer! Kolsch (Year round) A little bitter but has a nice aroma. You cannot go wrong with either of these beers if you normally do not drink fancy Beers. 5 Stars for both of these. Question: Would we come back here again? DEFINITELY! Again and Again. We would highly recommend going to this great place. You will not be disappointed!!
(5)Laura C.
Great food, generous portions, and beers brewed in-house. We had a salad and the conch chowder, plus a cheeseburger and kolsch-battered fish. The fish was very good, but the batter was a little soggy right next to the fish. The chowder was delicious, but some folks might think it had too much black pepper (not me!). Burger and fries were great. We also got a flight of their beers, at a very cheap $8 for six 5 oz glasses.
(4)K C G.
1st time here. Great experience, fantastic food. Service was outstanding. My boyfriend got the blackened scallops special and said it was the best he ever had.
(4)Cully R.
Visited on Christmas Eve with a part of five. We were seated at a table barely large enough for four but they added an extra chair. I guess that made it okay. Appetizers were good. French onion soup was only warm, not hot. Entrees were average. Disappointing since we had eaten there several times a few years back and were very impressed. Food was served very quickly but wait staff didn't check back for drink refills until meal was finished. When they did check back we had to ask them twice to simply remove our empty dishes. There are a lot of outstanding restaurants in the area. We probably will NOT be returning to Brewers any time soon. Merry Christmas!
(2)Tom M.
I heard from family and friends that Frederick was really trying to liven up their downtown so on our way back to Hagerstown from DC, we decided to give it a try. Anything is better than Hagerstown's lame attempts. There weren't really a whole lot of options downtown that we could see in the dark but after a few passes on Patrick Street, we decided on Brewer's Alley. The front end of the place is most like a bar. It was crowded. noisy and annoying so the faster we could make our way through that area into the dining room, the better. When we got there however, we found ourselves wanting to be back in the bar, minus the throngs of people and the noise. The decor was unimaginative and boring, painted walls with photos and pictures that just didn't work. There was no sense of privacy in the dining room and the tables were crowded together. The lighting was so bright that I wished I had brought my sunglasses. By comparison, this place would pale next to micro breweries in Portland. The vibe just wasn't there. The fact that the "bosses" hovered obviously because there was no place for them to be was annoying, as well. The other thing I found really annoying was a lack of healthy options on the menu and I ended up having an entree salad and sweet potato fries. No meatless dishes or gluten-free options. Restaurants now days would do well to offer those things as more people become gluten intolerant or in other ways, conscious of things they put in their mouth. My partner said his mac and cheese was very good. Next time we're in the area, we'll probably look for something else. Nice try Brewer's Alley but you just missed the mark.
(2)Sarah M.
I having been eating at Brewers Alley for the 6 years and have slowly seen a huge decline in the past 2 years. This used to be our families "hot spot" to go when people came to town, but after a multiple bad experiences we stopped taking people there due to poor food quality, anything besides the pizza is a HUGE disappointment. Servers in the bar area are down right offensive and obscenely rude, I was suckered in to going last Saturday night and the waitress in the bar area offended our whole group of 9 repeatedly and we ended up leaving without ordering food because of her attitude. This was once a landmark in Frederick and sadly has gone down hill very fast. If you do decide to go, stick to the pizza, stay away from the bar, and try the beer...its pretty good.
(1)Keith W.
Great location but fell short in a quality meal. I ordered the mushroom burger (medium rare) and it came out medium with little to no flavor. It is advertised as a 1/2lb burger and it was work like 1/4lbs. The cole slaw was pretty good and the overall service was excellent. At my table the chicken wings and pizza meat monster received very good reviews, as well as the black bean burger. The price was average which goes along with the entire theme of Brewer's Alley. If you are looking for average food in a decent location then this is your place. I would recommend to try somewhere else first though.
(3)Connie M.
Second time I ate here and this time was pretty bad. The beer was flat so we had to send it back (really, this is a brewery!). We ordered sandwiches which were pretty bad and had no taste served with cold fries. I could understand some slippage if the place was packed, but half the restaurant was empty. I won't be returning.
(2)Allison D.
I wouldn't say that Brewer's Alley is my favorite restaurant in Frederick, but it's certainly the restaurant that I find myself at most often. The greatest thing about it (besides the beer, which I'll get to in a moment) is that it's really like four restaurants in one, depending on your mood and preference. My favorite part is the bar; not just because it's "the bar", but because it has a dark and cozy pub feeling. If you're lucky enough to snag a table, you can hang out for several hours (hopefully enjoying their fabulous beer). Unfortunately, unless you get there early, you're not likely to find a table on the weekend. There is a more romantic upstairs area that is reserved for special occasion "course" dinners and private parties. The side dining room is a little less romantic/intimate, but still OK and I really don't like the back dining room at all. It's brightly lit and open and I always feel like I'm on display. They also have a patio with about ten tables but, unless you get there early, you're probably going to wait for a loooong time to sit out there. The food is good; some of it is fantastic and some of it makes you wonder what they were thinking. You can spend as much or as little as you want on food since they have everything from good-sized appetizers that could make a small meal to salads and sandwiches to full entrees. Their menu changes pretty regularly, so there are always new things to try. I'm adding this to my "Frederick Pizza Joints" list because I think they have the best pizza in Frederick. Some of the combinations of toppings are great and some belong in that what were they thinking category, but they are wood fired and awesome ( yelp.com/biz_photos/-9au… ). But, like I said before, the best thing about Brewer's Alley is the beer. Their oatmeal stout is the best I've ever had; so black that no light penetrates it. They have a beer sampler, so you can try any that you're not familiar with. They have about eight beers that are always available (including oatmeal stout) as well as several rotating seasonals. Usually there are about 12-14 beers to choose from. Their servers are great; many of them have been there since we first moved to Frederick in 2001...and extra special kudos to them for being open during Snowmageddon. They fed us and kept us drunk throughout the entire ordeal.
(4)Sunny C.
Their oatmeal stout is the best stout I've had so far. Better than Guinness. Plenty of outdoor seating. Their pear pastry with cinnamon ice cream (limited time special) was divine. Plaintain mahi was creative and paired nicely with the spinach and potatoes. I had an enjoyable dining experience.
(4)Susan S.
I'll be brief. This used to be a favorite restaurant. Now, I'll only eat pizza there. It's excellent, usually. Stay away from the more unorthodox combos- they promise big flavors and end up disappointing. I like the staff and bartenders. Atmosphere is good, too. Beer is excellent. I don't know when they started going downhill, but several changes of chefs in the past 20 years have left them near the bottom of the barrel. I'll pay for good food- but, they've run out of chances. How can you screw up a hamburger or pizza? Other than that, we don't eat there anymore.
(2)Pengilicious E.
I've been here three times and always a disappointment! They have wide selections of draft. If you're thinking of having dinner then go somewhere else first then come here after dinner for drinks.
(2)Jojo S.
The first two times i came to Brewer's Alley i thought people who complained about the food were crazy. My sandwiches were great, the beer was very good and you could sit outside. Service was a bit on a slow side, but pleasant enough. Sadly, that's where is stopped. In the next 5 visits i've seen food vary from poor to completely inedible. Why did i keep coming back against my better judgment? Propelled by memories of my first-time pleasant experience , and of course for the beer and outside sitting. However, after the last time, which was particularly bad, i'm done. Looks like they have some major kitchen management problems. No quality control seems to exist, and the waiters don't even look at the dishes they are brining (trust me, you just have to look at some of them to know better then to serve them). The waiters don't seem to be particularly surprised or apologetic when the food gets sent back. I guess it's something they got used to. Of course, because the service is so slow you are likely to not have another shot at your order. On the up side, they do credit you for dishes without question. Oh, and don't get excited when you see they have the wood pizza oven. They don't really know how to do it justice. At best, your pizza will be mediocre. Sorry, not even remotely up to par. What a shame, too, as the ingredients seem fine (before they get ruined by the kitchen that is). Get a drink and enjoy the outside, but don't count on having dinner there.
(2)H B.
I can not for the life of me figure out how this place is always packed! I have been here 3 times and it has been terrible 3 times. Once I ate and had a few beers at happy hour and sat in the bar area- food was bad, beer was ok. So all in all, it wasn't worth the happy hour price. Second time we tried it for dinner. We even brought friends. 4 of us had burgers and 4 of us were sick after eating them. Not awesome. I feel worse for my friends because they had to drive back to DC after that! And the 3rd time we went with kids because it was open and was the only kid friendly place that had a table. It took us forever to get our food. Not going back. With so many great restaurants in Frederick- why would we!
(1)Kimba G.
Now that I have been there a few times I have a good idea of the quality. They just remolded and changed a number of things. The place looks great! Love their Pulled Pork Sandwich, Pot Roast, Bread Pudding, etc. Everything I have had as been great! The service is good and it is consistent in the quality of food it services.
(3)Hillary B.
I keep trying this place, the staff is always so nice, it's clean, and the beer is good but I have yet to eat a decent meal here. So disappointing. I have eaten here five times and each time try a different menu item. All taste-free, every time. But everyone is so nice.
(2)Jeff Z.
Very good and a nice atmosphere. I had the fish tacos and they were delicious! I would have given them four stars but the $5 salad was rather small.
(3)Katie H.
Unfortunately I had a REALLY bad experience here on Sunday November 10th. We showed up at 2 15 pm and there were 7 of us - 3 kids, 4 adults. When the beers were to be ordered, almost every one that our party asked for was OUT OF STOCK. The two beer drinkers settled for an IPA rather than the lagers they wanted originally. Appetizers were not so good - pork taquitos were greasy; crab dip tasted like 99% cheese with possibly ONE piece of crab meat :(. We waited more than 40 minutes for our food and when it arrived only two people were happy with their meals (kids). My soup of the day was out and I was not notified until after my meal was brought out (food arrived but no Portuguese sausage stew.... when my server came by, she seemed flustered. The woman who was bringing food out said they were out. I asked why I was being informed only now about it and not when my order was taken). My dad's chicken was bland and tasted like it had been cooked ages ago and just warmed up as an afterthought. My mom's mussels had one drop of sauce on it. My boyfriend's burger - ordered Medium Rare was definitely more Rare than he wanted it to be. Sad to say I do not think we will be coming back here, especially since we did not want to leave a tip due to the lack of beer selections, the wait for the food and the quality of the food. We were charged almost $25 in gratuity which was a rip off considering the quality of the food.
(1)Eric E.
Not much in life I like better than a good brew pub, so I wish Brewer's Alley tried just a little harder. The food is pretty good, but several nearby joints are better. The beers are pretty good, but nothing really stands out. The service is good, the ambiance is good, and the crowd is pleasant. I will surely be back, but it seems they are coasting a bit because their downtown Market Street location is SWEET. Too bad.
(3)Briana Leigh A.
what was ordered: (app) stuffed jalapenos (my) oatmeal stout beer pot roast w/ cheddar mash & celery root (special) (his) resinator beer wings french onion soup (dessert) blueberry crumble (sepcial) first of all, our beers were amazing and less than $4. you'll get five stars regardless. all of the food was delicious. i have absolutely no complaints. appetizer was tasty. his wings were crispy and had the perfect amount of sauce. his soup was perfect. great flavor and cheese was exactly how it should be - melted. (so often you order french onion soup, it comes out and you're sitting there wondering.. what the hell is this shit?) well, this was the kind of french onion soup you dream about. because the pot roast was on the special menu, it was a must try. i've tried stews and roasts from different restaurants that feature these items on their permanent menu and unfortunately, it's never cooked long enough. how do you charge $16+ and not properly.. "stew" it? there's nothing SPECIAL about it. but this was tender, flavorful and warming. delicious. i shared it with him because he made a very poor decision only getting wings and a soup. because the food was so surprisingly good, we ordered the dessert on the special menu. blueberry crumble was warm and full of blueberries. crust was crispy and added a great balance to the dish. our waitress was very sweet and attentive. will be returning and will be hitting the treadmill or Insanity. downtown Frederick has some great eats.
(5)Jeff S.
Went here with my brother to enjoy some fine brews and get a bite to eat. We ended up skipping the food and went straight to the beer. We grabbed a sampler plate, 6 beers handpicked by our bartender - asked her to pick her favorite. We ended up trying everything they had. No real standouts, although their IPA and Dopplebock were very solid. They had one of those bourbon cask-aged brews...it tasted like it belonged in a tumbler topped off with Coke - not necessarily a bad thing, just not my cup-O-tea. The bar area was pretty nice. Definitely a place for beer geeks to congregate in the Frederick area. I would probably come here again if in that part of town, but I will definitely have to give the kitchen a try for a more complete review.
(3)Michael Z.
Got the special of the day. The fish was good, a little small in portion but it was delicious.
(4)Charlie B.
Great food, beer and service. Had the BBQ sandwich, and tried the andouille pizza, both were awesome. Service was really good also, responsive and friendly at all times. Highly recommend going for anything from HH to a formal dinner. Easy to rate this one... 5 stars.
(5)Lily B.
Perfect upscale twist to classic bar food and beer brewed on site. Enjoy fried pickles and Mac n cheese bites. Gluten free beer should be on the menu soon. A good go-to bar.
(3)Brigette K.
The beer and bar atmosphere is great! This building is amazing. Gets kinda busy though. Wednesday is Cajun Night. Opera House IPA is amazing (when they have it!)
(4)Ryan P.
Fourth or fifth time here and it seems to be getting more average (read "worse") every time. The fried, Panko breaded dill spears were very good, but the caesar salad was an overpriced joke and the service was a bit slow given a mostly empty dining room. I've had nearly great food here in the past, so here's to hoping this downward trend ends soon. I will always applaud Brewer's Alley for their beer selection and great location.
(2)Tom W.
My wife and I stopped here for some light appetizers and a brew. With all of the choices in Frederick, we should have found another place. First, I really wanted to like the Alley so maybe my expectations were a little high. We both ordered the 1634 pint. Although $3.67 is cheap for a pint, this beer is not good. It's a little watery and doesn't have the proper head. I can't speak to the other beers they brew since we didn't have them. We ordered the Shrimp and Avocado Timbale. This is good but c'mon, it's a few shrimp, a few pieces of avocado, some mayo, and lemon juice...for 11 bucks. Oh wait, I forgot, it has a toasted piece of bread with it. It's still 11 bucks and that's crazy. We also had the Poblano and Crab dip. This came with broken corn chips that were from a giant bag. Although the dip was ok, you could tell it was mostly sour cream. Again, this app is 11 bucks. More craziness. So 2 pints and 2 apps for $31.32. I know Frederick can be a little pricey but this is a little on the high side. Probably will be back at some time just because we love breweries but this place is no longer on the "must go" list.
(2)Matthew R.
This place is completely underwhelming for a number of reasons. First, my fiancé and I arrived and were told the wait would be about 15 to 20 minutes. No big deal. As we waited, a few other groups came in. The couple immediately after us were told 20-30 minutes. The party after them were told 30-45 minutes. After we waited about 30 minutes, the couple that came in after us were seated leaving us still waiting. My fiancé shot the hostess a glare and it was then she realized she forgot about us. The hostess made it out like our vibrating/blinky thingy was not working even though it clearly was. We were then seated outdoors which was fairly pleasant. With the exception of the Harley Davidson that went roaring by, interrupting everyone's quiet evening. I couldn't help but think of the South Park episode dealing with exactly that same scenario. But then things started going back down hill again. We ordered and waited over 45 minutes for our meals to arrive. Meaning that we were now about an hour and 15 minutes after our initial arrival. My fiancé's food was cool or luke warm at best. Mine was lacking in flavor. The only part of the meal that was any good was the sweet potato fries. They were truly excellent and the only reason this place didn't get only 1 star from me. Even the beer at this brewery was unimpressive. My last reason for disliking this place is an aspect of which the brewery does not have complete control, the clientele. Excuse the generalization, but this place was packed with two types of people, cougars and hipsters. My fiancé and I definitely were out of place. To generalize ourselves, we showed up in a car that would have us labeled as yuppies, BMW M3 convertible, and our attire had us labeled as slobs, jeans and t-shirts. We were on a one day road trip and this was nearing the end of it. Hence the car and attire. Yuppie slobs? Is there such a thing? I guess there is now. Regardless, my point is if you are a hipster, then this place is for you. If you are a cougar on the prowl for a hipster, then this will be your heaven on earth. If you are yuppie slobs like us, then go somewhere else.
(2)Anthony W.
I visited this spot twice and have been satisfied on both occasions. On my first visit I ordered an Alley Burger I believe it was to satisfying results. I came back with family on the second trip and had the Caribbean Chicken with Mango Salsa which I thought was great. My woman got the surf and turf and the crab-cake. I also would recommend the grilled tilapia which we also thought was pretty good.
(5)Jenn C.
I recently went to a wedding here on the 2nd floor. The place is gorgeous with lots of charm. I enjoyed the food - I had grilled chicken marsala with mashed potatos, which was excellent. I tried the steak, which was also very good, and my sister had the crab cake which she enjoyed very much. The staff were pleasant, and I never got the feeling of being rushed. All in all, a great experience!
(4)Colleen F.
Brewer's Ally is a staple in my family. They have good beer, and a creative menu. A vegetarian can usually find something interesting to eat, although less so than in previous years. The restaurant is kid friendly. The cheese stuffed pretzel with ranch dressing is a must.
(4)Thomas B.
Favorite spot for locally brewed beer on tap. Great selection of quick eats and entrees. Try the pizzas too. Good stuff. Take a growler home with you after it is said and done and keep the party going at home.
(4)Kjirsten K.
I was in Frederick for one week and out of all the restaurants I tried, this was the best. The crab cake with potato puree and asparagus was delicious and so was the beer. The restaurant is large with plenty of seating, a bar area, and a very nice outdoor patio. My biggest regret is not making it back here one more time before I left. See you next time Brewer's Alley!
(5)Amanda C.
Delicious food and beer. I highly recommend the Riot Rye and the lamb burger. Also great service: we had to wait quite a while on a First Saturday, and they compd us a round.
(5)Nicole A.
I really want to be able to leave a better review. I love sitting outside here and the beer is good. The issue is the only thing here that is consistently decent is the pizza. I have been twice very recently and sat on the puppy patio the most recent visit being last night. The first time I got fish and chips and the fish was really bad. It had an off fishy smell to it and it had obviously been sitting because it was very soggy. It just wasn't edible. The server disappeared after we got our food but if he hadn't I would have sent it back for something else. By the time he came back my husband was done eating so I didn't bother but only could eat the fries. I told him about the issue but he shrugged it off and said they were busy. Last night I got the chicken sandwich. The chicken was good, issue is they forgot ALL toppings and sauce. I got the server to bring me toppings on the side later to add but by the time I got them the sandwich was cold. The manager came out to apologize but honestly I feel like they should have given me something off the bill. He just said to next time order the wrap since it holds the ingredients better. I think not. Also both visits we had serious issues getting drinks refilled. I drink a lot of water I will admit, but the servers just disappear and when one comes out with iced tea and water they only fill for their tables unless you make a large animated effort to flag them down. Both visits we sat with no drinks for a large portion of the time. I would think they would at least make a better effort to refill beer. Not all is bad, both of these times my husband has ordered a pizza and both times it has been very good. The fresh mozzarella is awesome and the pizza gets a great flavor from the wood oven. Also they have very good French fries. Would I go again? Possibly if I was downtown with my dogs and really wanted pizza but I wouldn't get anything other than pizza since they couldn't even get a sandwich right. Because of the issues with drink refills though I'd probably be more likely to hit the golden mile for Il Forno pizza. The service has been much better there.
(2)Michael C.
I was not impressed with their overall services. They have not met my service needs. Their beers were "meh ok" but have had much better beers from other Maryland Micro Brew. The food quality was so-so. I have had better burger and fries from other micro brews in Maryland and other state.
(1)Abigail O.
this is a really fun and classy place in such a cool area. i love how frederick has turned into a destination town (for me, anyway) where you can spend the whole evening going to shops, restaurants and bars, and not have a hellish parking experience. the beers here are good, but as with other reviews, the seasonals are better than the standards... i always find that kind of weird. wouldn't your standards be the ones you did best, instead of just picking one light/pils, one amber, one hoppy, and one dark/porter/stout? i appreciate being well-rounded, but i'd rather have high quality than variation. but i digress. the food here is pretty excellent. mac and cheese was standard (i.e. awesome), pork butt was so good that those of us who didn't get it stole it off the others' plates. service was very good both times i went (once with a large party upstairs, and once with my boyfriend at the bar). i'll definitely be going back when i make it to frederick again!
(4)Jon K.
A solid 4 stars, would have gotten 5 if this review was written a few years ago. First things first, lets get to the beer. This place has excellent beers and they brew them on the premises. I had never thought I would find one of these type of places that does an excellent job on brewing their beer and excellent food. The interior of this place looks half bar and half restaurant. It's in a historic part of Frederick and the building that it's nestled away in might even be a historic building. They have several TV's in the bar area and inside and outside dining areas as well. The only thing that irks me about this place is I have been eating here for several years and I always get the pizzas or the crab cake platter. Well, they used serve two large crab cakes on a platter surrounded by veggies and such (these are fantastic). I noticed a few years ago they started to only serve one and cut down on the portion size (no cut in price though). Anyway, it's not that big of deal I guess because everyone is trying to control costs because of inflation but I come here less often now because of that (there are many fantastic options in this area). By the way, both the pizza and crab cakes are fantastic here. The service here is top notch and we have always been well taken care of by the staff. Give it a try if you're in the Frederick area.....
(4)Matt K.
I lived in downtown Frederick for 2 years, and this place served me well many a time. This place is well worth a visit if you're looking for good beer and pretty good food. They make their own beers and they are pretty tasty. I am a fan of IPA but if you're a coors light (water) guy, then the Kolsch is probably the closest beer to your speed. People rag some of the food here, but you have to know what to get. Pizzas, burgers, wings, nachos, salads are good. They got good wing sauce and a very nice house vinaigrette. Blackened tilapia is very good. Their salmon tends to be a little fishy, and any fancy dish that sounds intricate might be a little risky. The sweet potato fries are a must!! They have rock salt on them and are cooked perfectly!! It can get crowded on the weekends on account of the meat heads that show up. You might see a few popped collars from guys that just got done lifting at Gold's but it isn't all that bad. Happy hours 4-9 on Mondays and Tuesdays! 2.50 house drafts! You gotta love a happy hour that doesn't end at 6. They also have $5 appetizers that go very well with a brew. So go, have a good beer, take home a growler if you find a brew you really like, and don't expect Volt-style panache. The bar area is very warm and comforting due to the hardwood.
(4)Anne M.
Great food and beverage selection. Delicious !!!!! Our party of 5 enjoyed large scrumptious servings delivered promptly. Everything (including the decor and bathroom) was just right. Our server Heather is a wonderful server;RIGHT ON :-D
(5)Nick L.
Not at all impressed. I do have to say the beer was good though. We ordered a small pizza and it took well over 30 minutes to come out. When it finally arrived it was cold and soggy. The server graciously took it back as she should but we were starving and did not want to wait for a new one. We paid the bar tab and headed down the street.
(2)Sher Y.
Pizza was amazing and prices were also on par. I also had the California Pizza. Delicious. yes yes it was.
(4)M F.
I have been to Brewer on quite a few occasions but mainly for drinks. Yesterday a group of us from work decided to have lunch at Brewers... and probably will never go back for lunch, but will continue to visit for happy hours and drinks. We were greeted by the friendly staff but that is where the service stopped. We were a party of 7 and not the only group in the dining room. The wait staff was less than tentative. It took approximately 20 min before our orders were taken, took another 45 min to receive our appetizers another 30 min to receive our lunches. At this point we are up to an hour a half... mind you we were on a lunch from work... upon receiving our food we requested our checks. Steak sandwich was over cooked; the chicken fingers had a hair in it and were sent back. The manager did offer to bring out another steak sandwich and chicken fingers. I'm sorry but after the hair, I was not hungry and no one wanted to wait any longer for food. Due to the time already wasted waiting we also asked for boxes for ALL of our food to go. We were offered 2 free desserts for the wait (O this took another 20 min of a wait). After requesting boxes and our checks, they were not received for another 30 min... An ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!!!! Another complaint was made to the manager and 1/2 of our food was comp'd to us.... Still absolutely horrible service and wait time. I'm not sure what happened or why... but there were other tables of 4+ who came in after our group and left before our group. Still the place was not busy. Funny, there was another table that actually got up to leave and asked for their checks on the way out the door. We did not order anything difficult or that should have taken so long to cook: Margarita Pizza Chicken Salad Sandwich Chicken Fingers Chicken Sandwich Steak Sandwich Mac n cheese Rueben Sandwich Sorry but this shouldn't have taken that long. Horrible visit won't be back for lunch ever!!!!!
(1)Adam O.
Food was good. Prices were reasonable.
(4)Li D.
This is an "okay" brew pub. The beer and the burgers are good. I had the California burger, which was tasty and quite large. The wings (appetizer) was so-so. Service was efficient. We sat in the back room, which was very crowded.
(3)Matt W.
Love this place. The bar area is a little small, but that's standard in downtown Frederick. The restaurant is pretty good, and so is the food. I love the beers that are brewed on site. Pretty low key most of the time, meaning that it's a great place to go if you don't want a band blaring in your ear all night.
(5)Renee Z.
My family moved to Frederick in 2008. We use to come to Brewery's Alley all the time it was our go to place when we had company. The food was good, the beer was good, and the service was great as well. That was the way it use to be! As in recent visits the service has been poor and wait times terrible! We recently went this weekend as my mother in law and mother were in town we wanted a quick bite well that was a joke. We were sat on the puppy patio which they said there were signs out front that all 3 of us missed that said that. We were not informed of it as well when sat if I would have known I would have gladly sat inside or waited for a spot out front. I saw dogs jumping on tables, staff petting dogs, giving treats, and not for sure if they washed their hands. I was so grossed out! As were my guests. I would have gladly waited or ate inside if we were informed before my daughter received her food. We ate, the food was ok the beer was still good, the server barely came around. We then got our checks we paid and left. Today I looked at my bank statement as I usually do each day. I noticed I was charged 4 separate times! The server apparently swiped my moms bill on my account which they said was a mistake by the waiter (which he never informed me about)they said the charges was returned, which was not reflected as my bank shows refunds. The lady I spoke to who was a manger was rude and condescending about what had just happened instead of making it right! When you go out to eat at a place you expect good service since you are paying for it, well if you are looking for that I would not go here! We will no longer after this visit as it was the straw that broke the camels back!!! I hope brewers alley takes a look at this and looks at their staff and their costumer service practices as they are piss poor at best. I WILL NEVER GO HERE AGAIN! Which is sad since we use to love it.
(1)Susan T.
I spent a lot of time in Frederick, MD recently and this is one of those "go-to" locations. They have an outdoor patio and there are always people waiting for a table. The nachos were good, our waitress was funny and nice. And the beer...we tried a seasonal ale...1649 or something like that...that is made from an old brewers recipe. Although this isn't mentioned on their beer list...it's our favorite and we were told they were going to start brewing this in bottles at the end of the year. You can get "growlers" and "mini kegs" and "kegs" of their ales...just call the brewmasters to find out what is available. The "growlers" stay fresh for 2 weeks. I'm planning to go get some growlers for my trip to Edisto Beach in May I like this beer so much...LOL. I do think you should stick with sandwiches, salads and pizza as far as food...but this place has a regular clientele and is popular. It is a good hang out place...
(4)Victoria Z.
Whether I'm here for lunch or dinner Brewer's has yet to disappoint me as well as everyone else in Frederick so keep that in mind on the weekend! For some reason I am addicted to their sauteed asparagus and their mac n' cheese. I think Brewer's appeals to many because of their homemade ale and their wood oven pizzas. They have a creative selection as well as daily specials. I have yet to get unfriendly waitstaff. I love the feel of this old building, especially when I park in the garage behind it and can smell the food on the way in and check out the stained glass windows.
(4)Hannah M.
We had dinner at Brewer's Thursday night for Lobster Night. Little did we know, it was also NY Sirloin night. My daughter had lobster. The rest of us had the steak. All of it was outstanding. We were surprised that we didn't get steak knives but we didn't need them. The steaks were so tender. The only minor complaint I have is the drinks weren't refilled unless we requested. But they were very busy. Still a pleasant evening out.
(4)Katie Y.
Brewers beer and burgers are so incredibly good that whenever I have to travel north from DC, I take Route 270 instead of 95 just so I can pass through Frederick to chow down on a burger, regardless of my level of hunger, and throw back a pint of hand-crafted beer. I've had a few of their other dishes, but really, just stick with the burgers, which are made with local grass-fed beef and accompanied with delicious thin-cut fries. Plan on spending $9 for this burger heaven, and plan on leaving fully satisfied. They advertise on the menu that they source as much as their food as possible from truly local farmers, yet they don't jack up the prices or attempt to be fancy-pants haute-cuisine. This is pub-food done right - tasty but without the grease overload (burgers, reubens, salads, pizzas, etc). Pints of their amazing beer cost UNDER $4 (no, that's not strictly a happy-hour price) and around $10 to fill up a 2-Liter Growler (initial $15 deposit on the oh-so-cool glass growler). Their Oatmeal Stout (6.7% alc.) is incredibly smooth, their Hefeweizen is sweet and slightly tangy, their Nutbrown Ale is delish, and their Maibock (7% alc.) is also Growler-worthy. Trinity Stout is a bit too bitter for me, but great nonetheless. On my last visit, the people next to us at the bar ordered Bud Light, which nearly shot an arrow through my heart. If I owned a car, I would regularly be trekking out here to fill up growlers with this delectable affordable beer - there's no need to drink something like Bud Light when this is around! Sit in the front bar area that is shadowed by the giant beer vats, or the patio if the weather permits - don't bother with the back restaurant area, which is loud and crowded and a bit too sterile as far as atmosphere goes. I would bump up the rating to five stars if the staff was just a little more interested and friendly, rather than apathetic and acting like they're from Philly or B'more. Come on - you're from a small town. You're supposed to be sweet and helpful and stuff - don't shatter this city gal's image of small-town life!
(4)Malarie B.
This is a cute place that always seems to be hoppin'. It's a staple of the area now, and pretty much everyone here will know where and what you are talking about when you bring up this place. This place is owned by the same people who own and run Isabella's and, frankly, it's the weaker of the two. This place is great for families and groups. Lots of space and seating! The food was good, not wonderful but good. And, unfortunately, my beer (the IPA) was almost entirely flat, as was my friend's. Kind of a huge disappointment when going to BREWERS alley, but meh. The service was delightful and I wasn't disappointed with my food, so all in all, I think this is a fine space to check out if you are in the area.
(3)Chris K.
My friend and I went on a week night. We heard their pizza was delicious, not to mention their brews. Service was quick and friendly. We got our pizzas -- gosh I can't remember the names but mine was the ranch chicken and hers was the plain cheese. She got the 1868 (?) beer, and I got the oatmeal stout. Our waitress was friendly and accommodating. We stayed an extra 40 minutes after our meal was over and tipped for that inconvenience. I would definitely recommend this place for its pizzas and beer.
(4)Karin S.
Beer good, but that's about it. Burgers were ok, but appetizers and fries were typical greasy, tasteless, fried bar food. A friend with us actually got a little sick (nausea)about an hour after eating there. Place was kind of musty. Not the upbeat, fun place we expected. Blah.
(2)Johnny L.
Excellent place! Sometimes service is a little slow for lunch on weekends, but the food is delicious and the staff are personable, friendly, and fun. I recommend the Reubens, they make their own corned beef and it's phenomenal. And the apple and goat cheese pizza is fantastic.
(4)Amy A.
The food is good and they will make any adjustments or accommodations you want/need for dietary purposes. The wait staff is very nice and tastes everything so they know what to recommend. I am not a beer drinker but everyone I have went with loves their beer. Highly recommend and my children also like it eat there.
(5)Brad B.
The only saving grace was the beer. We ordered Margarita Pizza. Unfortunately, it had so much garlic in the sauce we couldn't eat but a bite or two. They did take it off our bill without us asking though. Place was super snooty on the Saturday evening we were there.
(1)Shawn F.
What fantastic service, beer, and food! We were dining on the patio with our Labrador and a rain storm hit. The staff moved us into the vestibule with the dog and served us there. Another couple was there with their two large dogs and were also set up to dine with dogs. It was a great evening enjoyed by humans and the dogs! Thanks!!
(5)Ginger W.
I used to really dislike this place because when my family goes out to dinner, we tend to stick with the quiet, nicer end of things. Previous experiences over the years were pretty consistent, with an extremely loud dining room of people drinking Bud Light pitchers. You get the idea. Kids running everywhere, and adults acting like children, it really wasn't our family's kind of place. That said, I have been back recently multiple times and it has improved my overall opinion. I would still say that this is not a place to bring a quiet family or a date. It is not intimate, romantic, quiet, civilized, relaxing, upscale, or with a noise level suitable to having conversation without being hoarse. However, there are still things it does very well, and I am a firm believer in judging a place on what it appears to be striving for and not just on the qualities that I personally have moods for. Brewer's Alley has excellent beer and beer-related food. My personal favorites are the 1634 and IPA. I am a beer sipper, so I don't generally get more than a glass of something, but I am much more focused on the different flavors and things. They do a good job. The food is really bar food, done well. The calamari is an awesome snack, and they make some delicious burgers. It's not pretentious food, but its good food, and with beer, that's the important thing. Brewer's Alley is an awesome place to chill and eat outside, particularly if you have a dog. They are really nice about helping people with dogs get in and out easily and quickly. The little patio area really is a people-watching mecca for locals. Everyone walks by there, and it gets some nice sun without being boiling hot. I really enjoy it, even if I am just passing through. Brewer's Alley has some excellent service. It is prompt, kind, and generally populated by people who know the area and are from the area. At a neighborhood brewery, that's really what you want to see. Brewer's Alley does a lot to contribute to the town resident night life in downtown Frederick (not just Friday and Saturday nights) and also to be an active part of the downtown community, without being at all pretentiously "suburbs of DC" about it. They have free gumbo, lots of tvs for games, and a pretty busy scene on busier days. There is always something going on.
(3)Laura T.
After a few hours of shred time at Liberty, we rolled into town looking for some good food and drinks. We stumbled upon Brewer's Alley and hoped to find some space in the bar area. Friday night about 7:30pm.... no luck. So we grabbed a table in the dining area. The menu was loaded with so many choices, it was almost too difficult to choose just one thing for dinner. The lobster and shrimp mac N cheese jumped off the special menu, and my decision was made. Only when I received my entree, I was disappointed that the pasta and sauce seemed more like a cheesy alfredo sauce lightly blanketing large, smooth, tubular pieces of pasta, than a hearty, gooey blend of noodles and cheese delightfully fused together. Otherwise, the shrimp and lobster were plentiful, but the mac N cheese itself was rather disappointing. However, the fresh bread, home made soups I tasted (MMM! potato and artichoke), and drinks were on point. Both friends enjoyed their entrees (chicken/lobster pot pie & the tilapia entree), and I was happy that my scotch was a nice full serving presented shortly after we placed our drink orders. I like the casual atmosphere, and menu that has a mix of lighter fare plus larger plate entrees. The dessert menu also looked incredibly enticing, but we decided to save that for another day. Despite my less than satisfying dish, I was still able to achieve that warm, relaxed and cozy feel. And after a day on the slopes, that is really all that matters.
(3)Addison T.
I had high hopes for this place after reading some of the reviews. It ended up being just ok. We ordered the surf and turf on lobster night and it was such a good price! We also ordered the sampler of beers. The beers seemed watered down. Also there was a bug that kept crawling on my husband. At least I hope it was one bug and not different ones. Again trying to give the benefit of the doubt because the have at outdoor area and anything could crawl in. The oysters were good! All in all it was worth 3.5 stars.
(3)Sean M.
Great food. I'm not sure who the chef is here but he/she does an excellent job, So far we've had the steak, lobster and fried fish and it has all been exceptional. The side dishes are not the best around but the home made beer and cheap yet delicious mixed drinks make up for that. Not to mention the great service. Will definitely suggest to friends.
(5)Stephanie S.
Good beer, good food, unique atmosphere: that's how I'd sum up Brewer's Alley. You can go to this place for a lunch, dinner, or just for drinks. I should know, I've done all three. :) The last time I went, I had a great meal off their lunch menu. This was the first time I had lobster bisque, so I can't really compare to others. I CAN say that I would definitely have it again. I also had one of their featured sandwiches: bacon, goat cheese and greens on ciabatta bread. I'm not sure of the specific name, but I'll just call it Deliciousness. The bacon was carmelized, I believe. It definitely wasn't super crispy, like on a BLT. Other things I would recommend: their pizza (I've had the pepperoni) and their Nut Brown Ale. It's probably one of the most delicious beers I've ever had. The only down side: I think the front end of their dining room has a distinct smell of cleaners. Like the odor you smell sometimes when you sit at a bar where the dirty rags are stored. I can't really explain it, but it definitely hits you as soon as you enter the dining room. Try to get a table on the far end, away from the kitchen, if possible.
(4)Marilyn e.
Stopped for lunch at the Brewer's Alley 01/02/12 and was very disappointed. The food was mediocre and the service from the kitchen was SLOW!!! Sweet potato fries had way too much salt and were barely warm. The hamburger was dry. Fish tacos were okay. Probably the most irritating thing about our experience there was the staff cleaning with a roller vacuum all around us while we were trying to eat and have a conversation. Also, I find this not to be very sanitary. Our server, Danielle, was very good and the best thing about Brewer's Alley. But won't be returning. I've heard there are too many other good places to eat in Frederick.
(1)Bridget H.
This place is amazing. No, seriously! Brewer's Alley has great food, friendly and quick service, and great selection of ale. They even have seasonal ales too! I really enjoyed their pumpkin ale, I got to sample it this past Thanksgiving. This time, I tried a nutty brown ale. My favorite meal has to be the ham & cheese with local ham from Woodsboro. The portion size is not too small, but it isn't so big, you feel really "stuffed" after eating there.
(5)Diane T.
It was our first trip to Frederick and we were really looking forward to Brewer's Alley. We weren't disappointed. We had good timing. It was about 1pm and we got the last two seats at the bar. after that, the place was jammed. I really like their Dunkle Weis, but that's probably because it was lighter than your usual Dunkle. I would consider it a cross between a Hefeweisen and Dunkle Weis. Boyfriend like the IPA the best out of what he tried. The bartenders were friendly and had no problem filling us in on all the nuances of their beer. I think they had about 12 on draft, including their 1634 ale, which is supposed to be a rye-based colonial ale. For lunch I had the sliders. At first I was concerned because it was $8 for only 2-sliders, but they were pretty thick for sliders and loaded with cheese and carmelized onions, so those little hamburgers kept me going all day. There are so many restaurants in Frederick that look so inviting and I'd like to try them on future trips, but I think I'll find a way to fit in Brewer's Alley, as well.
(4)Ryan P.
Returned to Brewers after over a year since my first experience. Again just meh. Nothing to write home about to say the least. We both got beers, Kolsch and the Seasonal Chocolate (Can't remember the name). The Kolsch was good, but not light enough for a true Kolsch in my opinion. The Chocolate beer was one of the worst chocolate brews I have ever had. It needed a twist of something in it to pick it up, either cherry or raspberry to give it some depth. However the beer was the only positive yet again of this place. Our party got varied dishes. We started with the Crab and Poblano Cheese Dip. What a waste of money. I could've easily put together the cream cheese and cheap canned crap concoction that this was. I didn't even find any pepper what so ever in it, pretty bland and more cream cheese than crab for sure. I had the Portabella Burger and thought it was okay at best, the mushrooms were a bit tough and needed longer on the grill. My partner and I both got those skimpy fries again. Hate them! Another member of our party got the Caesar Salad with Chicken, and said it was the worth the salad she's had. The lettuce was mostly the stalks of the romaine rather than the leave and the dressing was bland and oily. I mean if you can't do a simple Caesar salad right, then just get out of the biz! The pizza the other person in our party ordered was greasy and slightly burnt from the looks of me. Overall I would skip this place all together, I don't think the third time is the charm, nor will they get one from me!
(2)Xopher D.
Great for the brews -- and totally average for food. Been here a few times with large groups in town for business. Service has always been stellar, even to the point of separate checks for parties of 10 or more. And the selection and quality of brews matches the service. There's always something for anyone who likes beer: from light bubbly lagers to deep dark stouts. Well now, the food is just okay. The burgers are fine, the gumbo is fine, the salads are fresh, but nothing is spectacular. And for the prices charged, you'd expect a bit more. You're paying for location here, not culinary je ne sais quois. But like the name says, it's really all about the beer. Drink up!
(3)Jim G.
Would love to tell you to go here. I have known the brewer since my 1995 and really want to support them. Unfortunately, the beer is common. It's a cool place because there isn't anything better. If you like true to style (i.e gauge beer) by all means, stop by and enjoy. If you want your beer to be over the top or different, keep going. NOW.. I will say, the 1634 was interesting. The caroway was overpowering. Tasted like drinking rye bread, but it was interesting. The other beers, (5 of them) were just so-so. We had a wood fired pizza. Again so-so. Don't get me wrong, I will stop again the next time I am in Frederick, but only until something better opens up.
(2)Karl M.
Decent brewpub, good beers and I recommend the crab cakes and pizza.
(4)Lelia S.
Yum! I went to Brewer's Alley for a work function and the food and service were outstanding. The crab dip and calamari for appetizers were well prepared and a nice start to the meal. The menu is eclectic. Most people will be able to find something they like, with lots of options for chicken, steak, seafood. They have great daily specials too. I tried the jambalaya and it was the perfect combination of spice, seafood and, strangely enough, orzo instead of rice. All the dishes were very flavorful! We also spent some time at the bar and my colleagues assured me that the beers were great but I stuck with a few mojitos. The bartender did a nice job on these too. Overall impression: If you're in Frederick and looking for a place to experience a tasty dinner or casual evening out, this place is definitely worth a try!
(4)Jess E.
Brewer's Alley is always a solid choice. I've never had a bad meal or bad service here. The pizza is delicious, and although they don't do half-and-half with toppings, they are otherwise very accommodating. I also love their pretzel appetizer. Beer selection is great too, definitely a good place to check out what's on tap, as you would hope with a name like Brewer's Alley!
(4)Anthony I.
Sadly, i did not drink the beer here, i was prepping for a big meal later on that evening, however the oysters were fantastic, some of the largest I have ever had. I will soon be back to imbibe on what I have heard called some of the best locally brewed beer anywhere. The salads were also great, fresh, delicious and just the right size, but man the oysters were spectacular, literally the size of softballs!
(4)Leah O.
After a ghost tour of Frederick, my friend and I headed to Brewers Alley for a beer and live music. Neither disappointed. We didn't actually eat here, but sat outside in the beer garden area. They had an excellent band (I can't remember the name) There was plenty of room for sitting and/or standing and dancing. They have a large selection of brews to choose from, as they brew their own beer. If I was up in Frederick again, I would be sure to hit up Brewers Alley for more beer and to try their food selection.
(5)Sheryl V.
My husband enjoyed the beer - we both enjoyed the food. He had fish & chips and I had black bean burger. Enjoyed the atmosphere and the waitstaff - this was New Year's Eve for lunch and it was busy - the food came out very quickly. We would go back again.
(4)Julaine N.
Brewer's (as the name would suggest) makes their own beer. They have great half-priced happy hour specials on Mondays and Tuesdays. I would suggest tasting a beer or asking your bartender/waitress for a suggestion. They have a good IPA and I love the summer seasonal blueberry beer. If you are looking for something to eat at the bar, they also have great brick oven pizzas. The rest of the food is alright, but nothing spectacular. I usually just get their house salad with champagne dressing and goat cheese fritters. Simple but tasty...a bit over-priced for a salad. Steer clear of the salmon dishes...I am not sure about their seafood supplier. I have had too many fish dishes that were a little too fishy. :/ Overall, come for a beer, pizza, or salad; enjoy the outdoor patio (but only if you are eating, unfortunately); but try another restaurant if you are looking for a fancy dinner.
(3)Mark R.
Great place to grab a home-brewed beer and grab a great meal! Best of all, the prices here are great for the value / quality. The first thing you notice are the huge beer vats... and let me ensure you that the beer in them is delicious! Always a good selection and great bar service. The huge t.v. in the bar makes it a nice place to watch a game. The food is really good. Wide variety and large selection. I feel like they need to limit some of the menu. its a bit too much. Its a great place to bring a large group of people. From time to time they have special events and tasting dinners. I went to one tasting that was a pairing of 5 courses with beer. Really fun and a good value. I think you can get on the list on their website. Overall, its a good place to grab a great lunch or dinner.
(4)Chrys H.
Good beer, solid food, good service. We're glad we found it.
(4)Joel S.
This restaurant is just OK. I was not impressed by the food and the ambiance is not what you see from the street (we ate in the back room).
(3)Abby B.
We visited on a mid week night and got right in, had a very nice experience except for the portion/pricing of the entree my husband and I shared. We ordered from under "big plates" section of the menu and got the surf and turf which was $31. When the waiter brought out our shared meal, we each ate our portion in about 6 bites, it really was sad...:( the crab cake portions was the size of a half dollar and the steak was slightly bigger. we each got 4 tiny broccoli florets and a few kernals of corn. So not worth $31!!
(3)Glen M.
Decent beermenu, worth exploring more on subsequent visits. I had their hefe weizen -- very good -- and a "cordon blue burger" for lunch -- not as well-executed as it could have been.
(3)talia r.
*This is a review mostly from the boy, but I co-sign on what will be written.* Sit at the bar or grab a seat outside and enjoy one of 9 wonderfully brewed choices ready for drinking (love the oatmeal stout and belgium whit). Get a sampler of all or if your group decides for one and wants more than just a pint get the Brewtenders delivered to your table (for 6 pints at $19 you are getting one hell of a deal). Don't feel like staying, grab a growler of your favorite choice and take it on the road. With a single $15 deposit, it is yours to keep and either return for money back or fill it up again for round 2. Let me rewind a bit. Brewer's Alley is housed in, yes an alley (kinda), a beautiful historic building that once was the City Hall and before that the Rhode Island House. For all of your classy party needs, there is a 2nd floor banquet room. Food comes good portioned and nice price. It may be a brewery, but it definitely serves like an upscale pub grub. After a filling lunch we decided on a light dinner and split the Maryland style crab soup and thai chicken salad. Soup hit the spot with the large chunks of crab, corn and green beans floating in its tasteful broth. The salad tasted fresh and light., tons of chicken and a nice spice in the dressing. All ingredients, produce and meats, come locally and it could be my imagination but it makes it taste that much better. If you want a deal, this is your place: Monday: Stimulus Package: Buy 1 big plate and get a starred food item or daily special of equal or lesser value for free. Wednesday: 8pm-close $2 drafts (when drafts are about $3.50, it isn't too big of a deal, but saving that $1.50 just means another beer). 9pm, free cajun buffet. Thursday: 1 1/4 lb whole Maine Loberster or Grilled 10oz. New York Strip Steak for $13.95 or $25.95 for both. You better believe I am hauling my ass here on a Thursday. To sum it all up in the boy's words: Top notch service, great location, beer prices fantastic, food was good (but we will see how the rest of the menu goes after more visits) loved the micro-brew choices. What else do you need to have? It is a micro-brew!
(5)Andy J.
Beer wasn't great but it wasn't bad either. You can't beat the happy hour price of $2.52 a pint. I only drank, I have no idea about the food.
(3)Rachael H.
great food - for a better atmosphere sit in the bar or patio area - the dining area is a little like a retirement cafeteria - but the bar and patio area area were great!
(4)Larry G.
Interesting little "Irish pub" that a friend decided for us to meet for lunch. It is bright and roomy...despite the fact that it was pouring hard outside. So, that's a plus! My friend ordered some eggplant sandwich. I ordered the baked ziti. As soon as I had my first taste, I knew I'd be spending quality time in the bathroom. It was like eating mac n' cheese with like 4 times as cheesy. Whoo...a bit too much. Plus, diced tomatoes on top. Ewww! It was definitely not like the baked ziti at Sbarro's. The wait service was friendly and prompt. So, I'll give them credit for that. The next time I come here...I'll try their burgers.
(3)Elise O.
i really should have tried the beer here but sadly did not. instead i had a long island iced tea which i must say was expertly mixed and tasted great. the fried pickles were delish. I had the crab cake platter and was dissappointed that i literally only received TWO pieces of asparagus on my plate. that was the reason i picked the platter over the sandwich was for the asparagus. so it was a dissappointing portion for $19. our waitress wasn't bad but rather apathetic. she seemed like she had a long day and was kind of over it. overall, just ok! not great.
(3)Laura J.
Had the beer sampler and enjoyed all the different beers. It was Cinco de Mayo, and they had a special menu which we ordered from. I had a pasta dish that used Italian techniques and ingredients that used chorizo (spicy Mexican sausage) and it was excellent.
(4)Jess R.
Had a great lunch, I agree with Amy T, they do a great twist on normal faire. Such as a BLTC - BTL with PepperJack cheese...was great. Had the soup of the day - Sweet potato and apple bisque - unique flavor with a slight sweet after taste. Nice meal - would definitely recommend.
(4)James V.
Great pizza, beer, and service. A really charming restaurant in the center of historic Frederick. My whole family love this place. The Pizza was really good and the home made beer made the night extra special...
(5)Jessie H.
Great food, horrible waitress. A group of 4 of us headed here, after touring Flying Dog Brewery. I had the california chicken sandwich, which was delicious. My husband enjoyed the burger. The table shared the nacho - with the chili on the side (awesome!) Really enjoyed the banana peppers. I had asked for pepper jack cheese & my husband asked for bacon. Neither sandwich came with them, which is no big deal. We just wanted to tell the waitress so we were not charged. She pretty much made fun us being worried about "$1.50". And instead of apologizing, she complained how she was going to have to have her manager take it off the bill. Still at this point, we were still happy to tip her at least 20%. She was quite annoying and fake, but whatever. Then the check came. The bill was about $80, and we asked her to split the check evenly between the two couples. After she ran the cards, she returned them to us. Between our two checks she ended up charging us an additional $12 - how does that happen? Very shady. Again, we brought it to her attention, and she really didn't care, and again acted annoyed. At that point the whole table shut down and had enough. We would return again, but would specifically request not to have this waitress. I probably would have ranked this 4 stars otherwise. Needless to say, we were not very generous on the tip.
(2)Kevin W.
This place has pretty good food regardless of what you are looking for. I was in Frederick for business and ended up at this place a couple times. Great food and service.
(4)Gabrielle B.
The bar was great but the food was less-than-average. We started with the nachos as an appetizer. They seemed microwaved and were soggy. My friend got the salmon entree and it was way too salty. Her husband got the pizza and although the crust was good, the cheese seemed to have an added layer of salt. My fiancee got the ribs and was surprised how few ribs he got for the price. I got the chicken satay with rice and vegetables and it was really greasy. It wasn't cheap and it wasn't good.
(2)Allison K.
The Duck pizza was otherworldly. I could have had 2 larges myself I think. I liked the beer they poured for us and the sweet-potato fries?!! So good, I almost made myself sick downing the whole basket. :P The ambiance leaves a little to be desired...at least in some of the rooms. We sat in the side dining room which was a little quiet and the round tables leave everyone staring at one another awkwardly. Square tables, some low tunes and dimmer lighting would do wonders for this room. The bar area seemed hopping with a more college/sports bar flare to it. Very fun and a bit loud if you're looking for a mellower evening.
(4)Sarah L.
Stopped here on a whim on our first visit to Frederick. Great site in the historic City Hall in walkable and trendy downtown, where the citizens of Frederick forked over their ransom to keep the Rebels from burning the place to the ground. Neat building, wonderfully restored, cool decorations. Beer was good- husband had Maibock, with which he was very impressed, I had oatmeal stout, which was not out-of-the-ordinary, but was really solid and tasty. Had a crab dip appetizer, chips were not homemade, but dip was very good with big crab pieces. Hubby had roast beef sandwich, piled high with real roast beef, also came with soup, also good. I had new menu item upon waiter recommendation - CA Chicken - very good, whole grain local bread, fresh avocados and chicken breast. Very good overall, extremely friendly service and a very good welcome to a very neat historic city. Recommend stopping in!
(4)Tiffany J.
They get two stars instead of one because I was here twice. The first night I went for a beer and the service was horrible. The bartender was rude and so was the waitress who refused to let us sit on the patio, even though there were other people out there drinking. *shrug* Don't know. The second night was alright - sat down for dinner. The food was so-so, nothing amazing, the beer was good and the service wasn't horrible, just sub-par.
(2)Nazzarena L.
Casual athmosphere, this comfy microbrew is a relatively popular family locale. I have been here for lab lunches, not disliked it, so I brought my friends over after they moved me, and dined on the patio with another friend from London who's my detector for when my european upbringing are obfuscated by the habits aquired in all these american years. So test passed. Of course I never have the pizza, but why should I. Best to stick to dignitous burger and ribs, or Thursday lobster.
(3)Melanie F.
Black bean burger is good. Beer is very good. Nachos - skip (taste good but very over priced)
(4)Lori M.
My husband and I went here on a Thursday night mainly because of Lobster Night (I mean, really, I couldn't cook a lobster dinner at home for the price of $13.95). We were seated immediately, after being asked if we wanted to sit outside or inside. Since it was hot out, we chose inside, but many people were seated on the patio. To enter the dining room, you have to go through the bar. Then, when you arrive at the dining room, the first thing you notice is the high noise level, even though the room was only half full and there was no music playing. The accoustics must be terrible in there. We were seated at a small table in the far corner of the room. When they placed us there, I thought, "well, at least it may be quieter here, but it really wasn't. The waitress immediately came and took our drink orders, and since we knew we wanted the specials, she took those orders, too. I ordered the lobster special--1 1/4 pound lobster with a ceasar salad and fries, and my husband, who doesn't like fooling with the work of eating a lobster, ordered the 10 oz. steak, again with ceasar salad and fries...no choices of salad or sides, no substitutions. After a short wait, the beverages arrived...I had just ordered water, but my husband got one of the wheat beers that they brew there. He said it was good, but not the best he had ever had. The price was reasonable, but also kind of odd...$3.67 or $3.62--an odd amount--what's up with that? Shortly after the beverages arrived, a second server delivered the ceasar salads--good and cheesy with a few croutons and a hint of garlic (not overpowering as someone else said in one of the reviews). The server came back and I asked if bread was included with the meal and I got a flat answer, "No", not, "It doesn't come with the specials" or "It's an extra charge", just, "No" and he left. When we were leaving later, I noticed several tables did have bread baskets, so I had to assume that bread did not come with the special. I could understand this if we had ordered a sandwich, but I would have thought bread would have been served with a steak or lobster dinner. After we finished the salad, there was virtually no wait until the entrees arrived. My husband said his steak was tender and flavorful and cooked just as he had ordered and it looked huge! And my lobster was wonderful! Both entrees were served with shoestring fries that were very good, crispy and with just the right amount of salt, but, while serving the fries on the same plate as the steak was fine, they quickly got soggy in the liquid of the lobster juice as I opened the lobster. Seems like serving them on a small seperate plate would be a simple solution. Although they actually tasted good soaked in the juice of the lobster, not everyone would like that, and the diner should have the choice to keep them dry if they want to...such a simple solution, too. The entree also included a rather tasteless bit of coleslaw in a small cup--more of a garnish than a side. The lobster and steak, though, I can't say enough good about...very tasty, and VERY reasonable price. Since that was the main thing I came for, I'll overlook the other flaws. The waitress was attentive, checking serveral times to see if everything was okay, and to get a refill of the beer, and the server also checked on us, but was a little too eager to clear the table...asking if I was done with the discard plate (they gave you a seperate plate to put the shell on as you worked your way through the lobster)...I was only halfway through the meal...not sure where he thought I would put the rest of the shell if he took the plate. All in all, the meal was wonderful, but it would have been nice to have some bread to soak up the lobster juices, and to have the seperate plate for the fries. Will definately return and hope they take note of the suggestions!
(4)Rade M.
Great beer selection. I had a delicious India pale ale. Didn't try the food, but the menu had some good looking options. Will be back for the food.
(4)Adri Q.
Great beer, including their India pale ale that recently won silver at an international brewing competition, and food. Had the sweet potato fries, which were awesome, and the roasted vegetable salad with DELICIOUS goat cheese fritters.
(4)Seth R.
Have to say the Thursday Special of a 10 oz New York strip paired with a full 1 &1/4 pound lobster for $25 is about the best deal I have ever heard of! The steak was excellent-perfectly cooked and tender. The lobster was extremely tasty and much larger than I had envisioned. You can bet that I will be returning on a Thursday for the special!
(4)Rebecca S.
Went out for dinner with my husband's work colleagues here and everyone enjoyed themselves. There were several appetizers ordered, all were yummy- especially the calamari. My husband and I are beer snobs and were pleased with our beers. I had the porter which was quite nice. They had whole steamed lobsters for only $13 that evening on special and everyone but me got them. I tasted a claw and it was cooked well- not rubbery, just right. I ordered the house-made sausage dish with au gratin taters and sauteed apples and onions. It was extremely gnosh-tastic (ie, tasty to the Nth power)- the flavors were rich, complex and well-balanced and everything was cooked perfectly. I'm sure my hubbie and I will end up at this place again if we ever leave the house under our own auspices.
(4)Casey K.
Pretty bad night here. I think if you are a big beer enthusiast who needs a spot to meet up with friends, then this is the place for you. However, if you are like myself that was out for dinner with the fam, then you are out of luck with quality of food. We started with the meat and cheese platter, which was really a pitiful site. It was served on a plate. Not on a carving board or a cool piece of slate that I have seen elsewhere. The components were just sort of thrown on the plate with no distinction in which was which. The apple slices were pithy and lifeless, there was no snap or sweetness to merge with the other savory ingredients and there were only two slices, seemed kind of sparse for a meat and cheese "platter". There was some baguette slices which were burnt and there were also only three pieces. All and all, this was a really bad starter and I would not recommend. I had the cedar plank salmon which was also not good. The salmon was cooked ok and just as I requested but the components paired with it were odd. The tomato relish ended up being like a marinara sauce, which in no way was good complimented or took of from the salmon, it was just odd. I was expecting so much from the tomato relish, however, it fell flat for me. The russet potatoes were dry and tough, one of the pieces were actually too hard for me to chew, which I inconspicuously deposited into my napkin. Just bad bad bad, and definite one to skip. The best thing on the table I tasted and the thing I wished I had ordered was the plantain mahi. The fish was light and tender while the avocado mashed potatoes had a wonderful flavor. I would highly recommend this dish and if I ever find myself here again, that is my go to. I had a bite of the muffuletta burger which was forgettable and in noway like a muffuletta, but more a burger they just put a large chunk of ham on. There was no finesse in flavors, and I was honestly very let down by this night at brewers alley. Can't say I will return.
(2)Joshua P.
Food was great, had bean burger and shared a margherita pizza. Co-workers I went with are big beer finatics and they kept talking about how good it's was! I would definitely return.
(5)Travis F.
I love this place. Food is excelled, service is fast. Thursday's are great for a cheap lobster dinner. We also had a friends birthday here and they were great for providing us a with a large table for the group.
(4)Andrew M.
Found this place just by looking on the map. At first it seemed great, but then the wait was long and the waiter took forever getting our drinks. There is room for improvement on the service. As for the food, it was really good. Had the Maryland crab dip and the BBQ chicken for dinner. Well proportioned and priced. I can't really complain there. But I just didn't think it deserved more stars. We got the wrong check which was for the other table. And my friend almost paid it. The beer was great, so if your looking for pub food and beer. This isn't a bad place. Give it a try
(3)Shona G.
I have eaten at Brewer's Alley a few times and the food is always pretty good. Tonight we made the mistake of sitting on the patio where the band was playing. Let me say this, the band was good, I would have enjoyed the music if I could have actually seen the band. We arrived early to ensure that we would get a table, unfortunately once the band started playing people began crowding in and standing in front of our table so that their butts were right in our face, and I mean that is all we could see.......butts everywhere (see butt photo, you'll know which one). This large group of people appeared to be friends and family of the band as they seemed to know each other. We had a meal and were attempting to finish our dessert in spite of the butts, when they began setting their drinks and empty glasses on our table!! At one point my husband moved his chair to the other side of the table to get away from the butts, but they just followed him there too. Not only were these people rudely obstructing our view but there was so many of them that the wait staff had to maneuver around them which also affected the service that paying customers like ourselves received. I might add that they were not eating, just drinking and leaving their glasses with us. My husband is typically a very laid back and easy going guy, but he had his fill. When he went in to speak to the manager he was told that they can't control the situation, he also said that the band called this crowd to come hear them. That is ridiculous! The patio is fenced off and when it is full they should begin a wait list like most other establishments would. Standing around the outer perimeter would be perfectly acceptable but these people were everywhere, this is a reataurant, people were trying to eat. When it was brought to their attention by one server, some of them moved over while more just filed into their places. This was the rudest group of people I have ever encountered and the substandard manner in which the restaurant handled the situation only compounded the problem. It turned out to be a very disappointing evening.
(1)Nicole W.
Just had lunch there, the service was excellent but the fish and chips were a bit greasy. The calamari was very good though. I would go back but get the pizza next time.
(4)Sara B.
Pretty good food, last time I went I ordered a turkey burger and it was really tasty! A number of others at my table ordered crab cakes and loved them. Good beer selection. Only complaint would be to have more attentive waitstaff.
(4)Eddie Y.
The best crab dip ever! Nice seating areas, staff is very nice and friendly. The food is great. Ill be back.
(4)Kenzie F.
Several years ago, I could rave about the food here. Now, not so much. If you're here for the bar, you're in the right place. If you're just going in for food, I would recommend going elsewhere downtown. I have tried 3 times to change my mind about the food. I had really talked this place up to friends, so after visiting it was pretty uncomfortable when the food was obviously unimpressive. Later, I went with friends that had been before and they had the same thought as I did: "this place used to be so good". So, sadly I probably won't try again with this place. If you're there to just enjoy a few drinks with friends, go for it. Otherwise...
(2)Kevin H.
The beer, food and service was good. We decided to come back the next night with a larger group. The restaurant advised reservations for groups of six or more, so we phoned to make a reservation for 6:45 PM on a Saturday evening. We were told to just come on in; no reservation was necessary. When we arrived, however, we were told that we should have made a reservation, as there would be a long wait. We explained that we had tried to do just that but had not been allowed to, but that did no good. We have now been waiting for half an hour... I strongly recommend that you try to make a reservation, and if you are told it is not necessary, go to another restaurant.
(2)Joey B.
This is a wonderful building!!! and i have wonderful memories coming here years ago! The food is not very good and that's kinda sad since its an all American Brewery. You want good food with your beer.. That's just food 101.. Nothing i have ordered here ever came out fresh. you will get the Trots from eating here. lol The Service is a hit or miss here. most of the time the waiters and waitresses are nice but other times they have been darn rude. If you are a beer drinker and love to socialize at night and weekends at watch sports, then this is the place for you! The atmosphere is very nice!!!
(3)Anna N.
On a trip home from DC we asked Siri the best places to eat near by. Lucky for us this place came up. We got seated right away and were starving! The service was good, but we were so pleasantly surprised with the food. The fired pickles were a great way to start our meal then I got the avocado turkey burger which was HUGE and messy but delicious! My boyfriend also really enjoyed his pizza. We didn't partake in any of the beer since we were traveling so I don't have input on that. If we are ever in the area again I know we will be stopping by here!
(4)Evey G.
We had a wonderful time at Brewer's Alley, twice! We attended a rehearsal dinner in one of their upstairs rooms which was just very well handled and lovely. We also returned the next day for a regular lunch in the main dining room and had a great experience. The food is delicious, and while I didn't have any of their beer I heard great things about the selection. The restaurant is really cute and convenient. Beautifully decorated, charming, easy to access, and with a parking garage just behind it. We didn't find the prices overwhelming or inappropriate, and all of the staff we encountered during both the rehearsal dinner and the lunch were outstanding. If we are back in Frederick we would absolutely recommend this restaurant and return ourselves.
(4)Susie-q C.
This restaurant is easily one of my favorites. Their beer, their food, the location, service. My favorite dish here is the black bean burger, soooo delicious! They have a great variety of dishes from seafood, to pizzas, burgers, salads. Will be visiting this place for as long as I'm downtown Frederick!
(5)James H.
Food and drink were great on first visit. Based on second visit, staff training and reservation policy is atrocious and irresponsible for an establishment of purportedly high caliber. We called at 6:15 pm to make a dinner reservation for a party of 6 adults plus a 3 year old child. We were told that fitting in such a party at 6:45 pm would not require a reservation and were not allowed to make one. An advance party arrived at 6:40 pm to claim the table, and was told the wait time would be 25-30 minutes. At 7:00 pm the rest of the party had arrived and the group was told the wait time would still be 30-35 minutes despite the time that had passed. The manager was not able to determine which member of staff lied to customers about the option to make a reservation and maintained that staff were trained despite this evidence to the contrary.
(1)Lorena B.
Do not go to the bar at Brewer's Alley if you're in a time crunch. Service is slow. I've been here twice, once on a late Saturday night when it was packed and on a Sunday evening when it was fairly busy. On both occasions the waitress was friendly but there were loooong wait times to get menus, order drinks, get refills, etc. As the name implies, they brew their own beers here. You can pick a flight of six (I think) to taste. The boo enjoyed that. Me, I liked my usual vodka soda but I also had a Bellini that was gross. I've had better ones in casinos. I've never eaten a meal here but the menu is extensive so it seems like a good choice if you're with a group. On my first visit, I had the brownie ice cream sundae. I'm not usually a vanilla ice cream fan but I remember the menu said it was either homemade or locally made and it was pretty damn good. The crab dip I had during the more recent visit was disappointing. The chips were warm Tostitos and the dip seemed to be cream cheese with one piece of crab meat. However, it came with a spicy salsa that was delicious and should be an app on it's own.
(3)Chason J.
Awesome place with a cool vibe. The old walls mixed with a new bar and TV's make it a chill place to grab a brew. The pizza is killer. I definitely recommend going here.
(4)Anonymous A.
First time here for lunch and I enjoyed the food and service. But the restaurant just doesn't feel clean. I was seated in the north room and the carpet was filthy, the chair upholstery stained and the wooden tables have seen better days. Maybe table cloths or placemats would help but the dust on the table legs and overall grimy look are inexcusable. The waitress was very kind and efficient and my food tasted delicious but they just need to clean the place up. There was even a peculiar odor when I first entered but luckily it was dissipated by the ceiling fans.
(3)Ashly L.
The beer is pretty good, but their food leaves a lot to be desired. Had the French Dip special today. The roast beef was tasty, but there were WAY too many balsamic onions on the dish. Also, the onions were so tart, I had to remove them from the sandwich. The other thing I noticed was my beer glass was sticky. I looked and it had syrup stuck on the bottom. I'll pop in for a beer every now and then, but other than that I think I'd pass.
(2)Suzanne K.
This restaurant, bar, brewery is awesome. From the old wood to the fun staff to the great food my family and I love it all. We regularly meet here on Fridays for happy hour, my husband and I used to come on Wednesday nights for their free buffet and happy hour beers (when we were young and did not have as much extra funds for nights out) and we love to come on Thursday for their Lobster night. The servers are fun, especially Alan (heeeeyyyy), all of them have their favorite items on the menu. All of their brews are delicious, I personally like the Nut Brown and Kolsch. For wine lovers they have a great selection both by the glass and the bottle and if you want a mixed drink go for it the bartenders are amazing. For foods, I recommend the fried pickles or calamaris, and oysters when they are in season, try out the Mac'n'cheese it's amazing, get the ham trust me. The pizzas are great and they are wood fired which makes them just so much better. OOOHHHH and if you see Apple Pie as the dessert...GET IT! A shout out to the banquet and special occasion staff who guided me through the process of hosting my sisters Bridal Shower upstairs. Jackie was fantastic and I recommend their party rooms for anything you need. They can wire in your music work with you on how best to layout the room and the food is the same deliciousness from the restaurant downstairs. They can even make a cake for your party! Go here, relax and enjoy the afternoon or evening with friends.
(5)Meagan G.
Was here last week for dinner with a friend. While the service was a little slow, the food was excellent. We both got drinks from the bar, him a flight of different beers and I a girly drink. The food was excellent and very reasonable in price, good portion sizes for the price and a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
(4)Rachel L.
pretty good beers, i really enjoyed the burger and the nachos.
(4)David F.
Beer was excellent they had the oh my gourd on tap barrel aged, got he jumbo lump crap, usually don't eat seafood at all and OMG that shit was amazing, ou have to get it.... HAVE TO!
(4)Steven B.
Visiting here was mandatory as my last name is Brewer! I whipped in for a late lunch, showed my ID to the bartender, and said that considering my last name, everything should be free. Sadly she wouldn't go for it. Not even a free brew. Oh well. The atmosphere is great. It's a very old building that was once an opera house among other things. It has a history a mile long and if you like old restored buildings, as I do, you'll love it! I've been to dozens of breweries and the beers here were A-OK. They were nothing special but just fine. Prices were competitive. I ordered the BLACKENED BURGER ($12). It was one-half pound of Lean Hereford Beef with Blackened Seasoning, Pepper-Jack Cheese, LTO and Horseradish Cream on a Toasted Potato Knot Roll. It came with shoestring fries and it was tasty and A-OK. My bartender was friendly and customer service was A-OK. Are you sensing a theme here? I had a decent meal with decent brews but nothing made me go wow. For me, this was a typical three star experience.
(3)Cliff W.
Not often, but sometimes, I venture outside the beltway. When it does happen, it's usually for something epic. No, we didn't leave the sweet comforting confines of urban civilization for this establishment, but instead for a waterfall in Thurmont MD. Afterwards though we found ourselves to be famished and needed to get some grub. I had heard about Brewer's Alley in past conversations about this place having the best burger. That's a tall claim, especially when you make it to me, a guy who's trying his hardest to clog his arteries with nothing but the best burgers one can find. For those who haven't read my previous reviews, I'm pretty passionate about this quest. So when we were all tired and fresh off the trail, I thought that since I was in the area and hungry that today would be judgement day. For someone not from Frederick, I was actually somewhat excited about knowing this spot was downtown. It's on "Main St, USA" if you know what I mean. On a Saturday afternoon there was a band playing down the street on the sidewalk, there were people everywhere, all in all I loved this little slice of Americana that I found myself in. Brewer's Alley lives up to its name by being in an alley. There was patio seating to be had and if we were visiting in the evening we would have sat outside. However, being hot, we went inside and found plenty of open tables in the bar area. Many a local there were adorned in their finest Orioles attire while they watched the game on one of the many tvs the place had up. The service was a bit slow, but I was able to order a nut brown ale that was pretty tasty. Their pizza menu looked delicious, but I didn't stumble my way into this establishment for that. No, my sights were set on their burger. My friends ordered a pizza, a pulled pork sandwich, and a salad. Everyone was pleased with their meal, but no one was blown away. The burger, ordered medium, came and was a watered down version of what one could get at Central in DC. It was good, don't get me wrong, but I would never place it in the category of being the best. It could most certainly be the best in Frederick, I'm willing to say that, but the best ever? Nah. The fries that came with it were also the really thing stringy kind. I'm not a fan of those. I want some potato in the middle of the fry, and the little thing string fries there weren't my thing. One of the people I was with though liked them, so depending on your preference they could possibly be great. The meal in its entirety was generally cheap in terms of price, and I'd probably go back if I found myself hungry in Frederick again. However, there's no way I'd make a special trip out from the beltway into the wild lands of Maryland when there are much better restaurants locally. If I was a Frederick local though? It could possibly be a spot I'd frequent. Dems da breaks.
(3)Shana C.
Met some clients for a business lunch and decided to refill my growler... from 2010. I didn't realize I hadn't cleaned it properly (they don't accept dirty growlers). I explained that I lived over 45 minutes away I really didn't want to drive all the way back to have it refilled next time. Shortly after the manager came to the table and instead of reprimanding me - he explained why they have the policy, how to clean it properly in the future, and offered to replace the growler with a new one at no charge. The excellent customer service did not stop there! Our waitress was very attentive (even during a busy lunch hour) and the food was great. I ordered the fish tacos, which had with delicious large pieces of fish, and french fries. The service and food were outstanding, if you haven't been here - you should go immediately.
(5)A N.
I eat lunch here frequently.. and it is reliably good. However I went to a group dinner last evening.... worst.meal.ever. Everything was "from a box" from the pasta to the mashed potatoes ... (yes both in the same meal) with 2 meat dishes... no veggies short of a salad. The salt bread would have been ok.. if I was drinking beer... but I was not. I have eaten at "banquets " like this throughout the region, in places that are pretty darned bad. My expectations were for a good healthy and tasty meal from B.A. Instead it may have been the worst restaurant meal of my life...
(1)Joseph F.
Speedy service, and good food. Fun, old timey atmosphere in the heart of a great city. Try the steak; it's excellent. So is their blueberry beer.
(5)Eugene K.
Excellent food and an excellent cask conditioned IPA. AUTHENTIC! The oak-barreled oatmeal stout was good. Not AWESOME but very good. The cask conditioned IPA? Out of this world. Cellar-temperature (closer to room temperature than ice-cold), no carbonic acid bite... a real British pub IPA. OMFG. And... I had the Sunday special which was a Salmon Ratatouille. perfectly seasoned... not salty... the vegies was sautéed just right... the salmon was perfect as well. Frankly could have had two.. but I needed to stop. I could eat there alone, I could eat there with friends, I could eat there with family. Excellent service and food. (so if you're a real beer snob... you have to get the cask conditioned special... I tried the draught IPA vs the cask IPA... night and day... two completely different beers... cellar temperature cask all the way)
(5)Shari S.
It was okay, really. But just okay. With so many options in the area, I think I would try a different one next time rather than go here again. Nothing stood out as being horrible, but nothing really stood out as being great either. I agree with the others -- the front door staff really wasn't that friendly. Neither was our waiter in the beginning, although he did warm up a bit later in the meal. If it was the only game in town, sure, I'd give it another go. But since it's not, if we return to Frederick, we'll try something else.
(3)Mihai T.
My first burger at Brewer's Alley. One of the best I've ever had. Add a craft beer to that, awesome
(5)Colleen B.
We were so glad to see Frederick was so dog friendly! This restaurant even had a dogie patio. That said we have come to the conclusion that the patio is where they send the bad waiters. The menu had pumpkin bisque as the soup of the day so we ordered it. Not only had they taken it off but they must have forgotten to tell our waitress. The runner tried to tell us that the beef soup he gave us was Pumpkin. Seriously? It has beans and chunks of beef! The waitress was nice enough to take the soup we sent back off our bill. Gee, thanks. The cold bean veggie burger was edible but the fries were outstanding! Tiny shoe string. YUM.
(3)Michele W.
Gotta love a place that has their own brews! The waiters are also very knowledgeable about their offerings if you are indecisive. There is a good variety of food choices. The food is good and satisfying
(3)Michelle A.
This restaurant seems to be a Frederick favorite, and (being brand new to the area) it was at the top of my list to try... Me, my two girlfriends and my daughter stopped in a little after 1pm on a Saturday. We got seated right away, and our waitress was prompt, friendly and helpful. This is a brewery, so we stuck with things that have natural associations with beer. We started with fried calamari (beer battered) and were pleasantly surprised to find two sauces (cocktail and an aioli) and hand-cut calamari rings. The batter was crisp and light and flavorful... overall, it was a really good version of a dish that can be a let-down when it's not done right. Then I got a burger with blue cheese. It was a better than average burger, with a healthy amt of cheese, and a nice large fresh bun. It also came with onion straws, lettuce and tomato. I happen to like thick burgers, so for me this was great. My friends tried a burger and also liked it, and then got the pulled pork sandwich as well, which looked a little wet (coming from Richmond, I know it's preferable to put your own BBQ sauce on pulled pork, but hey, when in Rome...) but was otherwise reported to be delicious. Also, as a curveball, we ordered the braise kale. It was braised with bacon, so really- we had to try it. And it was good, if a little greasy. The bacon wasn't crisp, which I think is the correct way to serve this dish, but overall, the bacon lent a nice salty flavor to otherwise bland kale, and the kale was cooked and tender but not overcooked or mushy... Bonus points for being kind and accommodating to my 1 year old, and this place is a no-brainer for when I need to get out of the house for a casual dinner. The prices, while they may be high for some items as other reviewers noted, seemed reasonable for the foods we ordered.
(5)Casey J.
I have dined here several times and have been thoroughly impressed with not only the menu but the service as well. Whether it be the steak or a seafood entree I have been delighted with the food. Also I absolutely love that they have an outdoor area where you can dine and bring your dog with you, actually I can say that the whole town of Fredrick is very dog friendly as far as the businesses are concerned. Anyways you can bet I'll be eating here again!
(5)Corey W.
Overall, this place is great. I've only been in the bar area to eat, and I really like it. We had the Oatmeal Stout and it's my wife's favorite beer (so we had lots of it). Pizza is fantastic; we also had some raw oysters and the jalapeño pretzel - both really good. Nice mixture of young and old people; staff is on point and plenty of TVs in the at area if you want to do some sports watching. It's a Fredrick staple, so you gotta go.
(4)Kem W.
It's always hard to judge a restaurant's quality with lunch. Any restaurant that can't make a sandwich must be really pathetic. So it is with this place. I was there for lunch and had a nice roast beef sandwich, thick-sliced, piled high with a nice cheddar. We also had a chicken salad sandwich. That was deemed too processed. The chicken could have been chunkier. Cole slaw was good as were the fries. I had a hefeweizen that was fine. The dining room we were in looked a tad better than a Bob's Big Boy but the bar area looked OK. But the service was friendly and attentive. Overall I can't complain but it was only lunch.
(3)Becca R.
Stopped in for lunch and some brews the other day while visiting downtown Frederick. When we looked up the menu we couldn't pass up our three favorite things: local microbrews, fried pickles, and handmade spicy black bean burgers. There was a lot of beer to choose from, including several seasonal. The waitress brought out a taste to help us make our decision. I tried the Opera IPA and Kolsch, both were crisp and refreshing. The Opera had a really interesting taste, definitely recommended. Fried pickles were just the right amount, four spears coated in breadcrumbs which made it lighter and crunchy. Also avoided creating the heat pocket that burns the roof of your mouth off like battered fired pickle spears. The black bean burgers were great. Huge patty, held together well for a handmade patty, and packing a nice amount of heat. Good guacamole hidden under the patty. Only thing that could improve it would be top it with pico instead of a tomato slice.
(4)David J.
Met some old friends here, so catching up with each other was priority, not the food. Good thing, because the food was only average and certainly not as good as I remembered from a few years back. Wife had the fish tacos- "OK" and the remainder had burgers, mine undercooked slightly. Beer was good, but I haven't met too many beers I didn't like. Service on a busy Saturday night was OK, but we were stuck at a table in a corner that was not level. Tip to hostesses: if you move tables around, check and use coasters to level the table before you seat guests. Speaking of furniture, at these prices I would think they could afford some new. The dining room is starting to look like a second-hand shop. Overall 2.5 stars, and there are better choices in Frederick.
(3)Alexander A.
Nice bar. Mediocre food. At least in my experience off their daily special menu. Also, I would ask for a swig of their specialty beers if you go that direction. Not very good IMO. I'll definitely return for the atmosphere (and drink bottled beer).
(3)Elaine M.
Everything about Brewer's Alley was great! We got a beer (Kolsch - great, a little like Bud Light but more flavorful) at the bar while waiting for a table - only about a 15 minute wait for a Saturday night. We started with Fried Pickle Spears which were the best fried pickles I've had! Very crispy, because of Panko - didn't fall apart. Also had Crab Dip, which was creamy and not too crabby. Apple Goat Cheese pizza was da bomb. Mac And Cheese side was great. Their French fries are always crispy and delightful - shoestring style. Our server was Jeremy and he was SO FUN and very attentive. He really made our night. Overall, everything was amazing, all the way down to the busser, who was also superb. Will definitely come back!!!
(5)Allison L.
A decent restaurant in a good location. I had the BBQ chicken pizza, which was fine. My fiance had the Ludicrous burger, which is a bacon burger stuffed between two grilled cheese sandwiches. About a gazillion grams of fat, but probably also the best entree out of the 4 ordered. Service was nice, but slow. Prices are reasonable/inexpensive. Not a bad experience, just not memorable enough to hurry back.
(3)Jade M.
While visiting friends this past weekend in Frederick they took us to Brewer's Alley which is located right in the heart of downtown. The restaurant/bar was full of college students and families enjoying a Friday night meal. We arrived a little after 8pm and were seated right away. We started with the Southern Fried Pickles (cajun battered pickle spears) served with Ranch. Yum! We also sampled the Kolsch beer- very crisp and refreshing taste! For our main entrees, my friends and I ordered the Fish Tacos, the Alley Burger (served with fries and crispy tobacco onions), the Spanish Pizza (chorizo, roasted red peppers, red onions and ricotta), and the Pizza Italiano (Italian sausage, pepperoni, red onions, banana and green peppers and mozzarella). Everything was affordably priced and had good flavors. This is a good place to enjoy a meal with friends.
(3)Brian T.
Very cool place with an interesting menu and very good beer list. Prices are reasonable and the service was outstanding.
(5)Benny R.
We arrived with a group of 6 adults and two kids. Then we waited outside for a half hour with plenty of open tables next to each other that they refused to push together. We asked the manager about the tables and she curtly responded "oh, we don't move tables". I'm pretty ecstatic we ended up leaving. I didn't want to eat here anyway. I've been here four times over the last ten years and each time the food was garbage. Now that my family has another reason not to go, hopefully I won't have to ever come back. And now that I have a yelp account I can give this hole the review they deserve.
(1)Jason C.
Good place to stop in and grab a beer and watch a game. The food there is also pretty good as well. The only issue which is not there fault is its always way to crowded at night.
(4)Bran G.
We were excited for this place in downtown Frederick but honestly were not impressed with the beer, service, or lay out. We sat out back which had no character to it. Waitress was knowledgeable but snoody. It started to rain so we went inside, got attitude about it. I guess we should have just gotten soaked? The inside seemed crammed with tables nearly in walkways. Beers were only so-so. Sighhhhh
(2)vanessa g.
I was a big fan of the beer selection, my favorite was the oatmeal stout and the nut brown ale, very delicious. I ordered a Margherita pizza and it tasted pretty average, service at the bar was average and the prices were good. Overall good experience, would love to purchase a growler soon.
(3)Mike M.
Very good beer. Food is OK, not out of this world. Several TV's in the bar area. Fun crowd on a Sunday afternoon, surprisingly packed, especially for mid afternoon. Go for the beer! And get a growler, you can take the beer home with you.
(4)Susan W.
The first brewery/restaurant is the area, it is still creating lovely beers in a fun, old town atmosphere. The food is mostly affordable and good. Owned by the same folks who own Isabella's and Ayse, you will find that yummy calamari on this menu, too. Bring some friends who appreciate good beer and order the tabletop beer dispenser. It's a fun twist and a way to get around the sometimes long wait in getting a refill during their busy times.
(4)Daniella H.
After a looooong day of driving north to raft the Upper Yough, by the time we got off the river and arrived at the restaurant we were starving. We=a group of 8 of us. We were initially seated outside where it took at least 10 minutes to be greeted by our waitress and was so loud that we couldn't even hear each other due to the music. Now, the music on any other night were have been great; however, we just wanted to eat, unwind, and relax at this point. We were immediately seated inside and had a fabulous, funny, much more attentive waiter. I had the mozzarella, roasted red pepper, pesto panini, which was flavorful but a little on the greasier side. We were served quickly and all in all ended quite satisfied. Our favorite part about this place was the locally brewed beers. Mmmmmm, this place makes 'em well and they're reasonable priced. I'd definitely visit again for beer and bar food!
(3)Dawn B.
Can I give 3 1/2 for this one? The food was average, but the service was amazing. The waitress was kind enough to take my credit card not once, but twice so I could surprise my boyfriend's parents by paying for dinner. She was subtle in her motions and even did an under the table pass. The restaurant food was reasonably priced and the soup was a nice touch as a side to the meal. Wish they would have laid off the salt though... it was a little bit over done. As for my main dish, the crab cake was well cooked, but the bread it was served in was tasteless and was not well paired with the delicious crab cake.
(4)Rob R.
Never disappointed by the Margherita pizza, cooked in their fantastic pizza oven and large enough that I guaranteed to have seconds the next day.
(5)George O.
Be Aware: they do not fill growlers from other brewers here. The growlers they sell are the expensive kind with aluminum handles ($15) as opposed to the common cider jugs ($2).
(1)Vik S.
What every decent brewery should have, this place has it. Choice of beer suited to every palate, food suited to every palate, friendly servers and decent prices. One of my favorite places to stop over whenever I'm in the area. A definite 4 star due to one reason only, their beer needs more flavor compared to other microbreweries but, don't let that deter you from this 'hole in the wall' of an awesome place!
(4)Lauren T.
Menu has a nice variety, something for everyone. Amazing pizza w pesto, goat cheese, and balsamic! Normal pizzas too. Great beer of course. Outdoor, indoor seating, and a large bar area too.
(5)Jason H.
Give this place 3 stars because the beer was good. Went there with my family from out of town because I heard it was good. Got the burger, which was not cooked right and the fries were cold. Could not find our waiter so I ate the food as is. To top it off we sat outside on the patio and could smell nothing but the trash can next to our table. Did I mention the beer was good? May still give them another chance, but there are a lot of good places downtown.
(3)Marlene B.
Good selection of beer at a good price. Loved the oatmeal stout! The fried pickles are to die for! Next time I will order my own fried pickles instead of sharing them! I gave 4 stars because I ordered a medium well burger and it came out medium rarek however, the waiter was great about taking it back to the kitchen to get it cooked more. A good restaurant overall.
(4)Shruti M.
you really can't beat their happy hour beer prices. This is a typical local pub environment. You get good beer for a cheap price during happy hour (2.52/draft). While i do wish they had some happy hour appetizer specials, the beer prices make up for that. The service was great, our waitress was friendly and very attentive. we didn't have any of the entrees, but would recommend the jalapeno pretzel, the nachos, and the bacon wrapped jalapenos. Overall, I'd recommend this place for anyone who just wants to chill, enjoy some beers, and relax.
(4)Karen S.
We came early on a Saturday night so we got a seat on the back patio (really just a converted alley space next to a parking garage) right away. We weren't shaded by the building so as the sun set, it really got in our eyes. The food was decent: I got the crab cake, which came with corn, mashed potatoes and I swapped out the asparagus for a squash medley. It was good, but there were so many bits of shell in my crab cake! I picked out five or six, and it's not a big crab cake to start with. My boyfriend got the pulled pork sandwich, which he enjoyed, and the shoestring fries are really good. He also had the beer sampler, which for $8 had generous portions. The beers were interesting-- he got a mix of their usual and seasonal ones, including a blueberry beer that tasted strongly of blueberry. It's right in downtown Frederick so you've got a great opportunity to walk around and see all the local shops before or after dinner.
(3)Natalie B.
This place is my favorite place for bar food in Frederick. The appetizers are quite delicious and they have an interesting selection. The pizza fired up in their pizza oven are delicious! The service is good, if a bit slow. Also, you can bring your dog with you out on the patio in the warmer months. Great food, great beer, and they allow your best friend?! What's not to love?
(4)Orlangela A.
She said..."Got the house salad and crab dip. The crab dip didn't look like it had any crab in it. It tasted more like cream cheese dip. Not good for $11. And it came with chips, like chips and salsa? Little confused about that...normally crab dip comes with a baguette or bread or pretzel. The house salad was not that good either, couple pieces of lettuce, onions and two tomatoes with watery ranch dressing. Probably wouldn't come back here to eat. I think people come here just for the bar." He said..."I got the southern fried pickles and house salad. The pickles said they come with a "ranch tomato aioli" I'll admit that the dipping sauce was good, but tomato aioli was absent. The pickles were legit and I would get them again, the salad had very basic items. I assume it is hard to deep fry pickles cut length wise but the chef did a good job, they were crunchy and not overcooked."
(2)Darius M.
Beer isn't that great. The food is good. Pizzas are a specialty. It would be a more frequent stop for me if they added a couple of "guest" taps featuring quality micros that they don't brew themselves; ie russian imperial stout.
(4)Candice S.
Yummy bloody Mary's & great bar food! The fried pickles are amazing, but beware the bacon wrapped jalapeño! They are SO incredibly hot. I love spicy food and I couldn't handle them! Nice atmosphere, fast service.. but could be more polite. We'll definitely be back but pray for a friendly waitress :)
(4)Brittany A.
Went to this place last night and it's just as it's previous average says it is.... A-OK. The place is huge. Large bar area, two patios. They had live music on the patio which was nice. I would have loved to sit on the patio but because of the saturday night wait, we opted for first available. The inside has clearly not been remodeled since it was built. Definitely old 90's decor. FOOD was okay. My husband loved his spicy trout dish. The kids pizza looked appetizing enough. My daughter's sweet potato fries looked pretty limp and sad at first but do not be fooled! They were still pretty crispy. Our pupusas were good! My chicken caesar was....... a chicken caesar. Pretty normal. The soups, though? No, no, no. I got the tomato bisque because I am a HUGE tomato bisque lover. I still get shivers when I think of the 2 bites I took. It was an unappetizing light orange color with the texture of mealy tomatoes. It tasted like dirty dish water. No salt, super watery. Just, no. The french onion wasn't much better but edible. I highly doubt it is house made. Really salty. The portions are tiny as well. They brought out the "bowl" of soup and I had to ask if they had accidentally brought out a cup. Very tiny, especially for $7. Overall, really disappointed with the soup. Especially since that's what I had ordered for my main course. SERVICE was okay. Our waitress was a bit awkward. But it takes all kinds, I guess. She didn't write anything down and forgot my soup the first go around as well as forgetting that I had asked for no croutons on my salad. She was pretty responsive to our requests though, which is always nice. Especially with kids who were sending her back and forth for drinks, bleu cheese to dip pizza in, ranch, etc. My husband loved the beer, though. Under $4 for a great beer? We never see that. Overall I think this place is pricey for the atmosphere and the food quality. We had an A-OK time. I don't think we'll go again because of the prices but with a large group for drinks and apps? Sure!
(3)Leah P.
Tried their beer at the Alive at Five event and really enjoyed it. I'm not a big beer drinker, but I enjoyed the two beers that I did have. Husband and I went here after the event, excited to try the local hot spot that we've had people recommend to us, as we're new residents of Frederick. I was unimpressed with the hostesses. I felt like they were not very friendly or courteous. They asked us if we were open to sitting in the bar and we said yes, then they told us to go see if anything was open and if not we could come back and they would get us a table. Isn't that the hostess's job? I'm big on customer service and the overall demeanor of the two girls up front, plus this, really turned me off. The bar is a beautiful area with the big windows, but when we turned the corner to sit in the dining area, we were very unimpressed. The atmosphere felt very cramped and the decor felt like you were eating in a Perkins. For such a neat building and beautiful bar area, we were disappointed with the dining area. It was a busy night for them so, service was a little slow. We found ourselves waiting for quite some time to order, for our food, to get our check, and then to pay our check. The waitress was fairly friendly, though. The food was tasty. We enjoyed the pulled pork sandwich and a small pizza. Both dishes were very tasty and generously sized portions for the price. I give the food a higher rating than the overall rating. We'll be back, but next time we will be sure to sit on the patio or in the bar!
(3)Chris W.
I wish I could give a zero star rating. In reality, the service is great and the food is good, but we had pretty much the worst experience possible when trying to have a nice evening out with friends. We had a large group, and when we were seated, half of our group was held up, and a manager by the name of Brian decided that he should call one of our party an asshole straight to her face. Just because we have an unusually large group that makes us assholes and we shouldn't ask him for any help because he is absolutely against customer service. Usually managers should be all about alleviating bad situations. Instead, Brian thought that the best course of action was to be completely unprofessional in seating a wedding party, and to accost a member of our party for no apparent reason. Needless to say, we will never visit this establishment again due to Brian's horrible people skills and unprofessional conduct. Despite the horrible management, the server named Jordan was extremely pleasant and tried everything she could to make our experience as enjoyable as possible.
(1)Cindy A.
Went on a Saturday for dinner (in March) and it was packed. We had reservations for 9 people, for 6Pm. They sat us at 6:15pm. Ehh not so bad. The group before us just didn't want to leave. It was a great spot with a nice view of street in front (the back room looked a little uninviting with its no windows and such.) I got what the waiter recommended, which was great. (Shrimp & lobster over polenta - I think it was a special.) I was disappointed with the lack of better-for-you side dishes, especially for kids. Both my kids ordered the pizza, but both ended up with fries as a side b/c they had no other good options. Wah. Really? Some restaurants have great options for kids. This is not one of those places.
(3)Robert H.
I really liked the quality of service here, everyone from the greeters to the servers were friendly and attentive. They brew their own beer and offer flights so you can try a wide variety. I will definitely be back here next time I'm around the Frederick area (preferably when I'm not the designated driver!).
(4)Devonshire B.
Like Yelp says: "Meh. I've experienced better."
(2)Adam P.
If your looking for a great meal Brewers Alley has it. The service was wonderful from the time we walked in until the time we left. I had my family along with some friends and the staff was very helpful and accommodating. We had the popcorn shrimp appetizer which was great and then for dinner we had the fish and chips and the meatloaf with cheddar whipped mashed potatoes and green beans. Also they have a great kids meal that should appeal to most young ones. 5 stars.
(5)Mehmed M.
Meh. Food is way overpriced for the quality. Quite frankly the food tasted like it came from the back of a Sysco truck and was heated up with little to no added spice. But... the price ($20 for entrees) tells me they use gourment ingredients. I think my tastebuds know the difference. I didn't get any beers, nor did I hang out at the bar. Maybe this is a great place to meet for a drink - but for dinner? no way. Too many better alternatives a stone's throw away to ever eat here again.
(2)Robin S.
This is a good place for lunch. I had one of the specials: ham & cheese (not as simple as it sounds) and potato salad. Potato salad was average (Gram ruined me cause no one can touch her's). The ham & cheese was very good, piled high & good bread. The atmosphere was nice. Good service, good recommendations. A solid 3-star restaurant.
(3)Daniel A.
*Banquet Review* I have to say that the atmosphere, food, and bar selections are great for the price. Highly recommend them for a company dinner, rehersal dinner, etc. Had a great experience. Jackie the coordinator was easy to work with.
(5)Andrew M.
Great atmosphere, very tasty house brewed beers. I had the Oktoberfest which has become one of my favorite seasonals - was not expecting that! The sampler is a steal at $7 for a pick 6 of their microbrews. Didn't get any food this time but the smells wafted delectably through the bar/restaurant air. Looked good too! But go for the beers, at the least.
(4)Robin M.
Atmosphere was your average pub, comfortably packed with people enjoying themselves and their food. My Caesar salad was okay and I got the "fish and chips" which were not bad. Their French fries are amazing tho. Good service and decent atmosphere. Nice pub for Frederick.
(3)Tim U.
Visited while in town in business. Said they had wifi internet and it didn't work upon arrival. Waitress mentioned it was common for it not to work. Good fish and chips although the price was a bit high at $15, even during Happy Hour. Not convinced to come back.
(3)Ashley C.
My family had lunch at Brewer's Alley today for my niece's birthday, and I could not have been more impressed. They had an extensive gluten free menu, and were willing to modify most items on the menu to be gluten free, even going as far as pan frying their hand-cut fries to avoid cross-contamination issues. Our server was so helpful and attentive, and manager Brian's concern for accommodating my celiac diet went above and beyond what I expected. Oh, and the handcut fries and fish tacos were fantastic, too!
(5)William F.
We stopped here today for some beer and bar food, and left rather disappointed. The food was poor, and the service was worse. In the past, we always liked this place, so we were rather surprised.
(1)Dana Z.
I've been here a few times for late night in the bar area which has always been just ok... sometimes a little too crowded and loud for what it is. Definitely not one of the first places I would pick downtown to go, but has always been a solid place to go. Went back just recently for dinner. The service as mentioned in other reviews is very friendly. I do have to say they totally screwed up our table's order though. They cooked one person's steak wrong, they forgot to bring out another person's soup, and they brought me the entirely wrong pizza. Still, they worked to fix all the problems so it wasn't that bad. Just had an off night maybe. As for the food, it's good but not great. They do have a pretty big menu with a big selection. If anything, I would like to see more salads on the menu. They were all pretty boring. Not the greatest place downtown, but it does the job.
(3)Ignacio S.
I have been there several times in the last six or seven years. It used to have a shorter menu when they made the brews in-house. Every beer that I have ever had there was at least good. Most of them are very good, and some of them, such as their stout, are fantastic. The food menu is hit or miss, with more misses than hits. Their fries are always good, but most of the rest can be either pretty good or pretty bad, sometimes in the same menu item. Case in point, our last visit. We had a calamari appetizer. The outside is golden, crispy, light, and delicious, but the squid itself was chewy, close to rubbery. In the same visit, I had the reuben and I was disappointed. Very little, almost flavorless sauerkraut, a lot of not very good pastrami, and a lot, a lot, a lot of fat on the bread. My wife had the open face turkey sandwich. The turkey was good, but the gravy tasted like it came from some evil powder, with a strong flavor that reminded us of those soups that come in and envelope. The spinach with garlic adn bacon that was the side dish was excellent. So, to summarize, go just for the beer because the food, with a few exceptions, is average at best. There are several places with much better food within a couple hundred yards.
(3)