Tradition! Every year we gather with some friends and eat here on our arrival. We love the beer, the food and the atmosphere. The root beer beer is outstanding, i could drink a pitcher by myself. The food was and is outstanding. Cannot wait until next year. If you are going by, stop in and eat...ohh, try the beer as well!!
(5)
Kuekuatsu M.
I haven't been home in a while. I sometimes thought I would never come back, because of my job. But, the time came when, after all this time, I got to come home, I was elated. After the Telegraph Cruise, one of the stops in my whirlwind eat-drink fest was FortStreetBrewery. I walk in, and the place is enormous! I can see the equipment behind glass and wonderful pics on the walls as I 'belly up to the Bar. Deciding not to totally jump into the Cherry Bourbon (or the Bourbon Cherries) just yet, I order a Corktown Red Ale. Oh my...flavored from everywhere!!!! I have to laugh out loud, which made the bartender laugh...I am home. I had the sausages on pretzel buns with pierogi and sauerkraut. Handmade taste, Downriver Excellence! If you are looking for a place that appeals to the higher senses, a place where you can get great food, plenty of space and a great plate...check out one of the places in my hometown...and be amazed.
(5)
Kelli B.
I want to love this place! I don't! It really bums me out! There are times my friends mention this place and I think, "eh, why the hell not!", each time disappointed. The food isn't anything I ever think about or crave, I couldn't even tell you what's on the menu but that I never would order it again. One beer is good, Sunsational (I think that is what it is called), it is a seasonal beer. I'd consider getting a growler of that. Service isn't bad but I don't think they really enjoy being there, or know the beer, or the food. It's weird going to a business and asking questions and the servers answers are very indifferent. Almost as if they don't care or like anything they sell.
(1)
Rodger W.
I really like the beers that Doug makes. They are very creative brews that are not simply copies of Bell's beers, like most breweries brew around here. Recently I had super hoppy IPA from a firkin that had gummy bears in the cask. Also, the imperial stout "Beernormous" is very tasty. They always seem to have a great IPA on the offer. Right now there is a brew "One Bag of Hops" that is a very nice double IPA. Its a great thing that Downriver has a good brewery. My concern is that Downriverites who love their Bud Light and Natty Ice would not support it over the long run. I wish them luck.
(4)
Gary P.
Manager was very rude to our group who asked for separate checks. We intentionally had fewer than 8 in our party- no reservation. When a couple other friends joined us, the manager informed us it would be on one bill and he refused to separate it. The waitress was very apologetic and did the best she could to accommodate the 9 credit cards and scratch notes we gave her. The manager did point us to the ATM, noting rules are rules. I have been here many times before with one or two people and did not ever experience such a mean-spirited manager like this. We were a quiet, professional group buying food and drinks like everyone else. The place wasn't even busy. 4pm crowd
(1)
Vickie R.
Excellent place to be at any day of the week, but especially Thursdays. Each Thursday a new, carefully concocted keg gets tapped, and the beer will flow until the keg is empty. If you're lucky, your glass of the newly tapped beer will have a sticker at the bottom of the glass for drawings for different prizes. Doug, the brewmaster, will propose a toast as well. Don't expect any beer there to taste like the cheap and nasty stuff you can buy at the store, every beer (except for one, IMO) is an absolute treat. I won't tell you which one is the exception, you'll have to go and find out. But I guarantee you, you'll know exactly which one it is when you try it. LOL. The food is fabulous. I love the French Dip. The soft pretzel is great, so are the pierogies and sausages. The atmosphere of FSB is relaxed and fun. Everyone is having a great time. The staff is attentive, even Doug will jump in and help out as a host, or even a server, when it gets busy. That makes me enjoy FSB that much more endearing. :-)
(5)
John B.
Beer is good when available. Multiple times they have only had a couple choices. Food is sub par at best. Used to be better but has gone down hill in years past. Now the icing on the cake, THE SERVICE. The service is never good. Cocky young people who just want to serve their friends and chat it up at the bar. Hey people its 2014, social media in full force. Train your waitstaff, teach them to be nice, make them learn the menu, the beers, etc. Enough is a enough we want better service.
(2)
Samir N.
Aw, man! There are so many FANtastic things happening here. The beer is awesome - the Sunsation, Amber Waves of Michigan Wheat, and root beer-flavored sarsaparilla are all delicious. In fact, I am upset at all the people I have ever met from Downriver that did not tell me about this place. It is a gorgeous space and a great place to catch a Tiger's butt whoopin'. There are plenty of TVs and they play the sound. I had the thanksgiving burger (my name, not there's). With turkey, cranberry sauce, and on a pretzel bun it is as Amurrican as Ricky Bobby. It is a worthy compromise between healthy and tasty. I would not hesitate to have it again. On top of that, the prices are awesome! I wish I could watch the whole Tiger's game here without worrying how to drive home!
(5)
Michael R.
Very much enjoyed our first time here. The beer was great and quite unique offering. The hummus was a huge portion and very flavorful. We split the duck sliders which were very good and who has ever had duck sliders?? Cool atmosphere and very attentive staff. Great experience!
(4)
Jerry M.
We went here on a Friday night and they only had 4 beers on tap with more coming out the next day. The waitress mentioned they didn't think they were going to be as busy as they have been and ran out. The service was ok and the beer was pretty tasty. They had very reasonable prices for both spirits and also beer. They also had an interesting section on the menu that I didn't try but wouldn't mind going back to try for beer and liquor combo drinks. The only beer that I wasn't a big fan of was the root-beer flavored beer. It reminded me of drinking a flat root-beer. I could just shake up a can at home for the same effect. On a side note we didn't eat at the fort street brewery except for dessert. Let me tell you the brownie dessert is huge. Our table of 4 picked at it and had lots left over.
(3)
P B.
Fort Street Brewery has disappointed me all three times I have been here. The beer is hit-and-miss, if they even have it. I say this because one time all they had was a light beer and a sarsaparilla (actually not bad, you just have to be in the right mood for it). The last time I was here I tried "The Queen", an Imperial IPA, which had less of the bitter hop flavor and fragrant hop aroma that you might expect, and more of an old sponge aroma and dirty dishrag finish. The food here is ok, in fact last time it was actually good. I'd recommend staying away from the Brewery Dip (French Dip) if you typically enjoy this sandwich. I'm by no means a French Dip connoisseur, but when the sandwich is absent of flavor I know it isn't right. Overall the Fort Street Brewery fails as a brewpub. Apparently enough people feel the same way as I do that you can walk in here at 12:30 PM on a Saturday during football season and pretty much have the place to yourself.
(2)
Kevin P.
we like FORT STREET BREWERY and the people are friendly and the main bartender there, Justin (with the beard), we think is just fantastic and very efficient and always on time with drinks and checking on how our food was....also very good with doing our keno. food is very good and beers are very good also with very good mixed drinks. not sure who that was that wrote the august of 2013 review about the bearded bartender but YOU must have not had a good day PERIOD because he is an EXCELLENT bartender and VERY NICE, so perhaps next time, YOU might not come in, in a bad mood and put him down on your review. we get to go there more often now that husband's shift has changed so we are happy about that.
(4)
W. John R.
I discovered this place through the Michigan Brewer's Guild and have never made such a wonderful discovery. This is my "go-to" place any time friends from out of town come to visit, and my hangout when my friends are willing to spend a few bucks. Fantastic beers, wonderfully rotating selection, excellent gourmet food, and a brewmaster (Doug) who personally greets every table and remembers your face (if not your name). This place is one of the greatest nights out you can have, whether it's a Tuesday or a Saturday.
(4)
Lisa M.
Was here recently with some friends and I have to base this review on the fact they only had four beers on tap and we only got dessert, but they have many more listed on their website. I get that home brewed beers are made in smaller batches but to me a brewery is going to have multiple brews on tap at all times. Now that said, the root beer flavored beer was good. I'm not a huge beer drinker but I really liked this one. On a side note, the desert was great. We got the brownie and between three people it was more than enough! I will be back again to try more of the menu and update my review. One last note, our server acted like she would have rather been anywhere else but there and was lax in checking on us. At one point we caught her gossiping with another waitress about a table right out in the open. I get it, a table might have been bad tippers, etc. but go in the back - your attitude gets reflected in tips and if I see you have one I might be inclined to tip you less.
(3)
Chris S.
To be honest, you earn at least 3 stars just for opening as a microwbrew, in a vacant market. But Fort Street Brewery strives to really impress. Their interesting concoctions are always fun to try, and their staples pretty solid. Their sarsaparilla beer is one of the most popular, and oddly tastes just like a root beer, but beer. Yeah, odd yet good. They have cask pours pretty regularly, which can be hit or miss. All of their pours are cheap, which is another shining point that Fort Street has in my book. Their hours are a bit strange, as during the week they close fairly early. The crowd is equally as interesting, as some days you can go in and there are only a few people late in the evening, and other days where it is packed. Either way, I love having a decent microbrewery a few miles from my family, making visits much easier.
(4)
Nikki C.
Both times that I've come here, I left saying "I've got to get back here more often!" The first time I came, I had a pretty good visit. Good food, good beer. This time was pretty awesome, too. I suggested going because I had a coupon from their e-newsletter. Wouldn't you know? I forgot the coupon -- I should have just shown it to the waiter on my phone. Anyway... After staring at the menu indecisively, I settled on the burger. How basic and boring of me?? Well, it was delicious anyway... I added the carmelized onions and pepper jack cheese. I keep wanting to try sweet potato fries... I've tried 3 times and each time, I end up saying ... "eh. big whoop." But what did I do? I ordered them here. They were just okay. I guess the whole sweet potato fry thing hasn't won me over. I asked for a little cup of syrup to dip them in. That contrasted with my burger and all of its juicyness. My bad. I ordered the Lincoln Lager and sampled the Sarsaparilla. The Lincoln Lager was... as they called it "for the people who don't know how to drink beer". Okay, I know how to drink beer, but the light, Lincoln Lager was familiar to me. The Sarsaparilla tasted like root beer.... then you get over it. My friend had the fish sandwich, cole slaw and tried an appetizer which was a boiled egg wrapped in sausage and rolled in breadcrumbs. Interesting. We also got the beer sampler. I highly advise this. Each little glass is enough for you to share with another. The food was as delicious as I last remembered. The service was swift and our server was cool. So cool that when he came to take our order, he said "okay, ready to rock?" hee hee. They have your typical bar trivia, Keno, a few TVs (not flat screens). DO sign up for their e-newsletter. You get a weekly newsletter from the beermaster and you get a heads up on the weekly specials, an occasional coupon and more! Friend them on facebook, also, to stay up-to-date. Cool place, not trashy, not all upscale. It's jussst right... I just have to remember to stop in more often.
(4)
Ryan M.
mm i love to come here with my friends. homer simson likes to drink beer and so does ryan. food is pretty good too. I'm afraid to say anything bad in case they read it and will be mean to me next time i come in lol. not that there would be many bad things to say.
(4)
Mickie W.
Fresh brewed beer, Bar food, and lots of TV's. What more could anyone want :)
(5)
Allison F.
Jake and I have visited a few more times to find that most of our favorite servers still work there and the rude ones are gone. The food was right and the drinks were good. Maybe we'll start being regulars again. I sit at the bar for the most consistent experience.
(3)
Hymae W.
Went here for a big group lunch at work. This place is DEAD during lunch. Their menu was pretty good for lunch and was even on the cheap side. I got the black bean burger (this should be a shocking choice if you know me). I am no pro of black bean burgers but i thought it was good. It took awhile for the food to get out but that's expected with group of 15+. I think everyone expected out boss to flip the bill but that didn't happen so we tried ot get it split up and did not succeed (which i hate). So we spent 20 mins figuring the bill out (thank god i had cash). I would like to come back to this place again after work and try there oatmeal wheat stout. I didnt have the balls to order it with my new boss their. Not sure if i am going to add this to my list of "places not to go if you only have an hour." I think i have to try going without a huge group first.
(3)
Julie C.
This place has great food and an excellent rootbeer beer. Our service was good. It was pretty loud but it was perfectly appropriate. I would come back.
(4)
drew k.
I have only been here one other time. It left a really good impression with me. This time a friend and i stopped by to scoop a growler and smash a pint or two. We had a chance to talk to the brewer for a few minutes and he seemed to take great pride in his work. Rightfully so. Doug brews amazing beer. I would go so far as to put them in the ranks with Kuehnen, Dragonmead and Traffic Jam as metro Detroit's best breweries.The bartender was super personable and knowledgeable about the beer and the overall state of local beers. She poured us spots of all the taps and decribed them well. The whole place is geared towards beer heads. They also have a pretty good liqour selection. They had a number of offerings on the board. The 6x6 is an interesting and complex brew. Made with 6 types of hops and 6 types of grain it offers a malty and well rounded hop flavor. The flavor profile changes nicely through the sip and the pint. The chocolate porter was an interesting flavor as well. It didn't have the thick body of most chocolate beers and still hit the bitterness of dark unsweetened chocolate. I remember the IPA being pretty good, but a little too hot for my tastes. She poured us some sort of sarsaparilla brewed beer that was fantastic as well. Everything on the beer menu was far above average and brought a smile to my face. The happy hour menu offerings looked pretty tempting too, but i was still stuffed and had to pass. I hope to come here again. Super friendly environment. tasty pints and cheap happy hour eats. A+.
(4)
Marj J.
Stopped here with my mom the other day for an early dinner. The food was IMO improved from the last time I had been there. It appears that they have streamlined their menu and the offerings are more cohesive and appropriate for the beer-pub atmosphere. I had the black bean burger which was really really good. I think that they made the patty there, it had a homemade flavor and texture. My mom had the sliders which were...well sliders. The fries were really good and served piping hot. The waitress recommended a beer that was to my taste as I prefer a Belgian ale style of beer. Kudo's to the owners for filling a niche Downriver.
(4)
Jacob F.
I'd really like to give Fort St five stars. I really would. The drinks are fairly priced, the beers (of which I've only had a few) are good, the atmosphere is relaxed but fun. The consistency in two areas, though, warrants only four stars... On most nights, service is great. Sitting at the bar is the best. But every so often there's a night where the service is pretty lacking. It's the exception rather than the rule, though. The food, though, is sort of hit or miss. The burgers - if cooked correctly (medium) are great... juicy and flavorful, topped with fresh tomato, lettuce and onion. But they don't always come out medium, unfortunately. I highly suggest the cuban and the monte christo, though. I've had much better luck with these two. Always satisfying. Oh and the fries are always great. They're always hot and cripsy. Overall, great place to hang all night, if you're into the casual eat and brew atmosphere and can weather the 2.5-star experience every seventh or eighth time you visit.
(4)
Bruce I.
Good beer. Decent food. Lots of tv's
(3)
Matteo C.
Bearded bartender ruined my experience. Should a bartender try to build a sliver or rapport with a customer? This guy was a jerk. Here's hoping the owner reads Yelp... I was going to meet a couple friends up there - but after 15 minutes of this clown. I told my friends to meet me elsewhere. A bad, unfriendly bartender that can't even ask: "How's your food/beer?" "Do you need anything?" That WILL cost you business. Probably $50-$75 worth yesterday. Too bad for me, as I like their beer and food, and prices. And until today: the atmosphere. Nice clean place, lots of TVs. I'm still going back - but if I see that #ahole with the beard, I'm walking right out...I suggest you do the same.
(4)
Erin W.
This is a bar where I would actually spend time. Here are some reasons why: neither a sports bar nor a dive bar has a tasteful (read: low) number of tvs it's not too loud but the space is pretty large prompt service decent food and a nice selection of craft brews (I enjoyed a couple stouts) really good happy hour prices Check it out. But don't get too rowdy.
(4)
Great Lakes L.
If you like craft beer and watching sports while eating great burgers and sandwiches, then check out the Fort Street Brewery. There's plenty of room for you and your friends, and the prices are very affordable. My personal favorite off the menu is the crab cake sliders - they're out of this world.
(4)
Megan M.
We came for the sarsaparilla beer and sauerkraut balls, and we stayed for the extremely reasonable pricing and friendly service. Fort Street does very interesting things with beer. The "root beer beer" was well done, with a nose that was very much root beer, but the taste was happily more mellow. I was also delighted to see that they had beer cocktails, but the lagerita was bland and sweet, despite the salt rim. The Snowplow and Scotch ale were both quite good. My love affair with sauerkraut was the tipping factor in making the trip down to Lincoln Park, but the fried sauerkraut balls didn't quite live up to my imagination. They were tasty enough (what fried food isn't, really?), but too bready to consume a whole order of 8, even with four of us at the table. My vegetarian burger was OK; others at the table enthused mightily over the chicken and waffles. The atmosphere was very chill on a Sunday afternoon. There were just enough other patrons for the bar to feel friendly, but plenty of room to spread out and the pool table was open. I would definitely want to stop back by to try more unusual beer concoctions.
(3)
Dan L.
I've been going to Fort Street Brewery since the day it opened almost six or seven years ago and it's still one of my favorites in Michigan! Doug, the Brew master makes some of the best IPA's I've had, actually his was the 1st IPA I ever tried. It's been great to see this place evolve over the years and how Pete and Doug have grown the business, bettered their beers, and even made the food better. I have to admit the food at first was so-so, but Doug and Pete have worked hard to make things better and it definitely shows in their ever growing menu. The Thursday night cask tapping is a thing of beauty. Where else are you going to go where every Thursday you have an opportunity to try a new beer that you 99% more than likely not have any where else, or ever again for that matter? Yea sure, some of the beers are kinda gross due to the nature of experimentation, but some of 'em turn out awesome...I guess that's part of the charm and fun of it. Anytime I meet someone from out-of-town or who's new to craft beer, Fort Street is one of the first places I'll always send 'em.
(5)
Lee S.
The beers are always great, its not in the best part of Lincoln park, but parking is good. Food was tasty but nothing exciting, though they had just changed their menu when I was there last. Dessert was practically non-existant, but they did at least know how to get me a rye without a million questions.
(4)
Kirsten T.
I really think that if you're an IPA-lover, you'll love the beer. I however, HATE bitter beers, and therefore have had only two beers at FSB that didn't make me want to send them back. Doug (the brewmaster) tries to be original and creative, and I give him major props for that. However, I feel that he throws extra hops into every batch he makes, and that's not always appropriate. Every style he puts out has a bite to it, and sometimes a little more malt would be highly appreciated. That being said, I do enjoy the food. They have a great "mini" menu, with munchies that are very tasty. Service is okay-- some of the girls seem a little less than knowledgeable about the menu items, but they are sweet and efficient.
(3)
John N.
I've been here 3 times and each time I left saying to myself "wow, I'll never go there again." The main problem, as I see it, is that they try to do too much and would be better off if they focused on trying to do a few things well rather than a lot of things poorly. The brewery comes out with new beers almost weekly. But the beers have a very thin quality to them and are either tasteless or disgusting (I guess I'd prefer tasteless). The service was consistently poor and the food almost inedible. The owner/ brewer also loves to get on a megaphone and go on prolonged rants about his awful beers.
(1)
Jim D.
Read some of the reviews on-line here and had high hopes, but... The service was good, we went Friday about 8:30 and they seated us right away. The beer was good. Had better and worse in my life. But the food was not very good. Let me stop right there. My food was not very good. Everyone else seemed to enjoy it, my wife even said it was one of the best burgers she's ever had. So either I'm surrounded by a bunch of fools with no taste or I ordered the wrong thing. I had the club with onion rings and it tasted like a club you would buy pre-made from a Kroger deli. The meat was packaged and the onion rings tasted like they were frozen. Guess I'll need to give it a second shot since everyone else seemed to like it. I'll just order something different
(3)
Lisa W.
The brew master at this brewery has it down to a science the beer is is fantastic! I recommend the Ipa's. If you are in the mood for a very good micro beer this is your place. The food is very good as well and matches up to the beer selections very well. They usually have good food specials as well. The best dish I've had there was a special they were running it was beef briskets soaked in beer sandwich with grilled onions and swiss on an onion roll! That was insane, it was very tender and juicy and full of flavor, it went perfect with the beer. The beer cheese soup is good if you get the pretzels for dipping I've also had the bratwurst and kraut and they did a great job on that. The only problem I have is that the service hasn't always been consistent I have had a few wait staff be very good and a few waitstaff that seemed to be to busy on a non busy night and has taken over 10 minutes sometimes when we first sit down to get a server.. Otherwise this restaurant would get 5 stars!
(4)
Margaret H.
Amazing food and beer! Their main menu features all sorts of burgers and sandwiches along with a few other items. My favorite is their rotating menu, there are always really delicious items on it. I have never been disappointed in my meal!
(5)
amy g.
This place is really great - Super staff :-) I love me some Guin & Krystal! Darts, pool, good food, and a very nice clean facility. Really cool, personable bartenders. It's also never been crazy busy, and I like that about this place. Can comfortably play some pool and enjoy a brew. I love the funny descriptions of the beers in their menu. Haha so good! I leave off a star because I'm not totally blown away by the beers but they're still good! I think I've just spoiled myself with too many Michigan beers. I do remember this place had a tapioca one though that I thought was pretty delish! Nice long bars, easily viewed tvs, and good company :)
(4)
Mike W.
Good beer, good grilled chicken sandwich, and overall a very nice place. Every Thursday they've got a new beer or two out , so there's always something new to try. Sheri mentioned lack of service for Brew ha-ha, but I'd encourage her to try it again. I was there shortly after it ended, and heard they just had much higher attendance than they anticipated. I wasn't there, I don't know, I just know I go there fairly regularly, and have never once had a problem with service. Give them another try sometime.
(5)
Craig R.
Hands down my favorite brewpub in Metro Detroit. Great food, cheap prices, liquor promos, and rotating food specials every week. Pint prices are generally $3.00-4.50 which is cheaper than pretty much any other brewpub and the beer is as good or better. They have pitcher specials too, but sadly I live too far to take advantage. They tap a new cask or release a new beer(sometimes both) every Thursday. Usually the cask is a regular beer with something extra added to the cask(orange peel, chocolate syrup, etc.) Edit: Doug brews some of my favorite IPAs. I'd say Piston Pale is on par with Bell's Two Hearted which is saying a lot.
(5)
Taurean V.
Fort Street Brewery is, in concept, what I like to think of when I think of a local brewery. New and different beers seem to pop up like crazy and I have tried some incredibly good ones here. Unfortunately they are fleeting and mixed with many not so good ones. Their normal line up is incredibly disappointing, with nothing I would ever crave to come back for. The food sounds pretty good on paper, especially the random specials, but has typically turned out below average. I can't say if it's preparation or just poor judgment. A lot of the times I've came it was for various "events", like a special beer release or whatever. I get the impression there is a distinct regulars clique and feel a little out of place, like I'm at a strangers birthday party with no invitation. I don't care much for the owner/brewer addressing the crowd randomly on the loudspeaker either. In the end I'll still pop in occasionally to see whats new and support a local brewery.
(3)
Angela H.
This place is pretty good. Great beer, good food (could be better, but good for bar food). Good place to catch a game on the big screen. My only complaint is that they would not fill up my growler from another brewery...which is fine, so I asked to purchase one of their growlers but they were sold out. They still refused to fill up the growler, so I was left with no beer and they were left without my business. Seems odd?
(3)
Topher D.
below average beer, from the boring to the tasteless to the undrinkable (root beer beer, I'm looking at you). pretty weak service as well, our waitress did not seem to want to be there. There's better places to go
(2)
Gigi B.
I DIG IT!!! For one....it's not far from me! 2....its nice looking, clean, safe, TV's, pool table, good & friendly service! 3.....the foods good, a lil better then regular good bar food! That'd be Good Good bar food! Great burgers...great mussels, fish and chips...etc. 4.....I don't do beer, but those big brass barrelly things that have the beer in them are sweeeet! I enjoy a cool neighborhood spot every now and then! This is where I Go!
(4)
Molly S.
I was introduced to Fort Street by a friend that lives in the area. An amazing selection of beer, and there is always something new on tap. A fun casual atmosphere with a fun and friendly staff and an interactive base of regular clientele. It is the kind of place that you want to go back to, even if you have to travel a bit. Their menu is as inventive as their beers and the food is good. I had a ham and apple Stromboli on my first visit, and have ventured the specials menu again and again. Their take on chicken and waffles is amazing... Good prices for quality food and drinks make me want to put Fort Street on my frequently visited list.
(4)
Bo M.
Went for lunch... Slow service... App came out with the entrees... Not my kind of food. Did not come here for the beer, which seems to be the thing. Don't get the BBQ pulled pork. It does not taste like the BBQ puled pork in the South. I will not be back.
(1)
Keith H.
Great to find a good microbrew right down the street from my work! Food is good, service is pleasant. 5-stars
(5)
David K.
I agree with many other yelpers, service is spotty. It often seems to take 15 minutes to cash out. That being said last night the service was spot on. I usually go for a special, shepherds pie, gyro tempted to try the beefarino :) . Went on a limb last night and tried the patty melt. Outside of a couple of newspaper sized chunks of onion it was pretty good, done just as I ordered. Its convenient, and reasonably cheap. I will return.
(4)
Mike O.
All I can say is their menu keeps me wanting more. I have the hardest time ordering here, I have my favorites but I keep wanting to order other things. They have a weekly special menu that changes on a regular basis, and its so good I have a hard time ordering off the regular menu. Fidel Castro had to kill 7 chefs before they came up with the perfect panini, and let me tell you it is perfect!! Wow. Oh and by the way on Thursday they tap a new specialty beer or two, if you are there around 8 the place really picks up.
(5)
Jennifer C.
This place is a downriver gem! And only 1 of 2 microbreweries in the area. Their seasonal beer, Summer Sunsation is an awesome beer!! Creamy like a stout, but light like a heffewiezen and full of flavor. Probably one of my all time favorite microbrews by anyone ever! The interior is extremely clean and nicely decorated. The food menu is both interesting and delicious. And the weekly specials are always unique and fabulous. This place is a definite must try.
(4)
Sandra B.
This place is good for what it is. They make pretty good burgers, and it is good for grabbing a couple of beers and a yummy big burger. It is definately worth a try. If you like burgers, you will like this place a lot.
(3)
Steve B.
Terrible service for a large party of 11. A group of my friends decided to try out FSB for some beers and food last night. When we walked in there were a good number of open tables and no one waiting to be seated. We were prepared to wait if we needed to being we had 11 total. The hostess looked at us like we were crazy when we said we had 11. Then the manager came up to us asking if we had a reservation and that there was a final four basketball game going on. Who makes a reservation for a bar? That is ludicrous. He said the tables up front were for a party of 11 that reserved them. Then he got snippy and started to move them together for us. He then said to us that "We got lucky" by him letting us have the table and him giving us the privilege to dine there. Talk about rude. Then a few moments later we witnessed the manager talking to a few waitresses and pointing to our table while flailing his arms in the air. I can only imagine what he was saying. Then we waited for our menus and to be served for another 10-15 minutes. When we asked if our bills could be separated (as soon as we ordered drinks, not at the end of the meal) the waitress gave a sigh and said that she guessed that they could be separated. The food was decent and the beer was average. So why were we getting the "members only" attitude from this place? I have traveled around the state trying out breweries and places of establishment who serve microbrew beers and have never encountered such poor customer service. So when we finally got to leave 3 hours later the manager came over to our table clearing it off and moving them before we walked away. There never was a standing room crowd there, even when we arrived. So his big hurry to push us out was confusing to everyone. We weren't rowdy or loud. We didn't demand attention either. So when the manager told us that "we got lucky" really in turn meant that everyone else who takes the time to read this review will "get lucky" by saving their money and time and going elsewhere. Avoid FSB at all costs.
(1)
Rich P.
More than just a bar. My wife and and I regularly go to Fort Street for dinner and drinks. Not only do they have excellent craft brewed beers, they have a great menu beyond your normal bar food. The menu is reasonably priced and they have weekly specials that are always awesome. We have a great meal at Fort Street with a couple of beers cheaper than Applebee's or Ruby Tuesday. There are normally 6 of Brew Master Doug's beers on tap with a new cask conditioned ale is tapped every Thursday night with great ceremony. The place is open, bright and clean. Definitely one of the best places to go downriver.
(5)
Linda V.
This Brewery is celebrating their 4th year in business. The Fort Street brewhouse is run by Brewmaster Doug Beedy. Doug is a native of Sault Ste. Marie, MI and a graduate of Michigan State University. He received his brewers training at the prestigious Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago and has worked at more than a dozen breweries in Michigan and Ohio. They tap a different cask of cask conditioned ale every other Thursday at Fort Street Brewery. The food is not to die for but when you are drinking good micro brew it doesn't matter if you have bad food. Their Summer Sensation beer is to die for. If you like what you drink there you can buy a Growler full to enjoy at home. Oh yeah they have Scotch Eggs......not too many other places have them other than the Renaissance Festival.
(4)
Roussos S.
this place is absolutely a great neighborhood joint. the service is great, especially krystal and dawn. the pwner pete is a class act and doug makes some interesting and tasty beer selections. the food is rather good, ive had a couple of problems here and there, but overall, if you want a cool place to hang out with a great vibe and great beer, this is the spot!
(4)
Christal S.
We stopped in here for a break between the Wyandotte Art Fair and the Trenton Street Fair. I started off with the pierogi appetizers which were 4 potato pierogies with grilled kraut and onions and a side of sour cream. Pretty darn tasty!! A friend ordered the pretzel bits with cheese and those were good. The pretzels were a little crunchier than I like but not bad. I tried the beer and cheese soup which was more beer than cheese and a little different. It was kind of watery and I like mine a little thicker. I had the $4 pepperoni pizza which was really tasty - had a great sauce. My husband ordered the chicken - n - waffles so I had to taste it and it was really tasty as well. My husband (a beer snob) also ordered the beer sampler and enjoyed at least 3 of them. Service was on the slow side (we had to ask for the check twice) and it wasn't very busy so not sure why. Consensus: if we are in the area and want a beer we will stop by.
(3)
Sheri H.
Went and tried this place on Saturday for the Brew Ha-Ha. The sign said "Please wait to be seated", so we waited and stood there and were totally ignored. So we went to the bar and asked where the beer tasting was. Went out to the patio and asked what their beer samples were. We were told rude manor that we should have seen the sign inside with beer samples. Got our samples and went inside and got a table. Then, we had a waitress that brought our menu and took the next beer sample order and never came back!!! So we asked another waitress to take our order. That waitress was fine. Ordered our food. I had a burger, which was good. My boyfriend and another friend of our ordered the New York Strip steak which was all fat and grissle and came with instant mashed potatoes. Not very good. We decided that after the service at this place, we would not go back.
(2)
Stephen N.
I think the best part about Fort Street Brewery is the space. I know that's kind of petty but I'm getting tired of being crammed into a table and being a flick away from the neighbors. The place is really spacious with TV's and the sound volume of the patrons and the TV is just right. They probably have 20 foot ceilings and it's far from claustrophobic. I changed my mind. My favorite thing about FSB is the consistency in their food. No doubt their chef is a bit of an experimenter and it's pretty darn cool when it works. Last night, the better half had one of their specials which was vegetarian stuffed peppers. Less than $10, they served a green and red pepper megastuffed with rice and other veg filling and it was really perfect on a summer night. Delightful! The kid got the chicken wrap which was pretty mainstream fixings and I got the chicken fajita pizza, of which I was forced to share half because it was so damned yummy. No. I changed my mind again. The beer is my favorite. I'm not much of a beer snob any more and used to brew my own 50 pounds ago. (Homebrew can be around 4X the calories of your average light beer. Much more rewarding, I'll give you that. But you'll be wearing those rewards in no time.) I try to get a different brew at each visit. OK. I'll admit. It's a bit girly but I got the cider ale. With all of the new ciders on the market, these guys attempted a different twist by mixing 25% cider and the rest ale. Fabulous results. Not as crispy and light as normal 100% ciders but actually more flavorful with the body of your average pale ale. The place is modern brewpub and you get what you pay for. I'm getting thirsty writing this.....
(4)
Ian K.
The beer was good, the food was decent, but the staff was rude as anything - it turns out the person who was completely obnoxious is the brewer and owner. I made a polite request and he bit my head off. Fine, I guess you don't need my money.
(1)
Dale R.
This place is a great place to hang out with your friends or on a date. A very cool vibe with friendly professional staff. The food is good and the beer outstanding. This place is for sure one of the coolest places downriver and I'm proud to have it in Lincoln Park. Check it out!
(5)
Michael S.
I've been here a few times and my opinion, and it's based upon personal taste, has not changed. The establishment itself is nice. Plenty of seating and nicely styled. Staff is always pleasant and efficient. I can't speak to the food, but it does look good. It's the beer that doesn't impress me. It's pretty so-so to my palate. I know tastes are different, but there it is. I do know some who love their beer, though.
(3)
Vionte' S.
One of only two breweries DownRiver, the atmosphere is friendly and so is the staff! The food is really good, and the craft beers are reasonably priced. This place is definitely a gem!
(5)
Melissa M.
The space itself is open and beautiful and the hostess was really nice! I just don't really like their beer. :/
(2)
Lauren Y.
Cute little pub in the down town area. The following of this bar is established and they do drink specials, happy hours and sell their own, brewed locally of course. I purchased an IPA growler as a gift and can't wait to try it out. From the looks of it, it's gonna be tasty.
(4)
Debi R.
My husband & I took his son here for his birthday & sat at the bar 15 min with no acknowledgement of our existence & there was only half a dozen people in there. When a group came in & sat at a table, a waitress went right over to them - we got up & left -will not go back!
(1)
Sip C.
Update, since I've unequivocally become a regular. There is very good service here. There is also very bad. Luckily, the latter often doesn't last, but I can't fault people for not knowing what server they're going to get. As for everything else: still haven't had a beer here I didn't like, their rotating small batches are a rare find even in the beer Mecca that is Michigan and the food specials are usually pretty inspired when they have a head chef. They had lots of turn over on the kitchen front for awhile, but their latest chef has stayed and is great.
(5)
Natalie M.
The service is spotty. Sometimes it's great, sometimes they ignore you the entire time. The beer is pretty good, but the food leaves a lot to be desired. The only thing that I can say that they have better than the rest is their french fries. Those are very good. Last time I went, I got chicken tenders and they were really hard, like a jerky almost. The time before that, I got Fish and Chips and the fish was soggy and undercooked. I also don't like that they close the kitchen at 10. So if you want to get a beer after work, you get off at 9, and want some Apps, you might as well forget it. This place is just "Okay". That's all I can say about it.
(3)
Clete B.
Really nice place to watch the Lions game. Great atmosphere! Tried the appetizer sampler plate and loved the chicken especially on it. Wish I would have ordered the chicken instead of the cod. Cod breading was not great, seemed overcooked. Fries though were good. The cole slaw was a little more vinegary than what I'm accustomed to, but was still good. They brew their own beer. We had an IPA which seemed a little pricey for a pint, but was excellent. Overall great place. Will come back.
(4)
Chris S.
Slow service and average food...why visit??? I've been to Fort Street Brewery a few times now, culminating with my visit at lunchtime on St. Patty's Day, and every time I've been there the service has been insanely slow that lunch time almost turns into dinner time! On this most recent visit, we were worried about it being busy for the March 17th holiday, but surprisingly, they appeared to have their average lunch crowd. Even with the small numbers, they STILL ran out of one of their specials for the day, shepherd's pie, and it was only 12 noon! Put our orders in around 12:10 and it literally took them 45 minutes to get us our food. Plus, the waitress clearly did not think this was a problem; no apologies or even acknowledgement of the long wait. Yes they have a good selection of beer, but their food and their service is subpar and really not worth the trip. Find a different microbrewery to visit.
(2)
Victoria C.
Very nice atmosphere, good selection of beer. Good place to go with a larger group or just a few friends.
(4)
Matthew G.
Clean, good food, good beer, friendly atmosphere, and the service is good too. Good bar.
(4)
Liz W.
I have swung by a few times and I always have had a good time with inexpensive yet quality bar food and a bit of a different take on beer. I'll be honest, you have me with chicken and waffles. Beer battered smelt? Yeah It requires me to bring my dad to feast. Beer can chicken? Oh yeah now I am happy. At least treat yourself to a fabu scotch egg if you aren't that hungry or some pierogi smothered in kraut and onions. It's bar food yes but tasty bar food. Wash it down with beers like Doug's Turbo Sarsaparilla (a great beer for a lightweight like me) or a smooth as silk Corktown Red. Service has been good. It's roomy in here and overall just a comfortable place to be. It has a distinct taste and personality and I for one appreciate that. Kick back and watch a game or just sip a brew (or two).
(4)
Reem F.
Food is NOT good and the owners are totally full of themselves and rude! Never will go back!!!!
(1)
Brian W.
Beer samplings are good. The food is average. Asked for the taco pizza it was dry so I thought maybe some sour cream and salsa could spruce it up. When I got my bill I noticed they charged me extra for what amounted to about two tablespoons of each. This is a condiment not a side dish people.
(3)
Orlando N.
FSB IS AWESOME!!! Good beer, good service, and clean taps. Yay!!! The Lincoln Lagger was tops, Jake was friendly and knowlageable, and the bar looked great. I will be back.
(5)
Matt M.
GREAT BEER! A constantly changing rotation of unique beers. Cask ale and other special releases every Thursday night. Best "fan club" prices of any area brewery. The brewer is nearly always there and is happy to answer questions. They just began offering a Sunday Brunch menu too!
(5)
Christopher D.
The good - Every once in a while they have a gem of a beer, and they are one of only two breweries in Downriver that I know of (the other one, in Wyandotte, isn't anything to write home about). Also every Thursday they release a small batch cask that is usually decent. I also find their food to be decent. Not great but typical pub food. The bad - Most of their beers are mediocre at best, they often only have 3-4 beers, and their 2 most available beers (Lincoln Lager and the root beer beer) are not very good. The ugly - Their service is usually pretty terrible. I'm easy going but when there are only 10 patrons and I have to walk to the other side of the bar to ask for another beer (or a glass of water) because I'm sick of waiting 10+ mins...there is an issue. Simple food orders are often screwed up, and many times I have to track down the waiter because they didn't ask if I needed a condiment or water refill. I've noticed that 2-3 waiters there are abysmal, 1-2 are actually respectable, and the rest are generally adequate but oft inattentive. Would give 2.5 stars but will round up to 3.
(3)
Jennifer C.
This place is a downriver gem! And only 1 of 2 microbreweries in the area. Their seasonal beer, Summer Sunsation is an awesome beer!! Creamy like a stout, but light like a heffewiezen and full of flavor. Probably one of my all time favorite microbrews by anyone ever! The interior is extremely clean and nicely decorated. The food menu is both interesting and delicious. And the weekly specials are always unique and fabulous. This place is a definite must try.
(4)
Sandra B.
This place is good for what it is. They make pretty good burgers, and it is good for grabbing a couple of beers and a yummy big burger. It is definately worth a try. If you like burgers, you will like this place a lot.
(3)
Roussos S.
this place is absolutely a great neighborhood joint. the service is great, especially krystal and dawn. the pwner pete is a class act and doug makes some interesting and tasty beer selections. the food is rather good, ive had a couple of problems here and there, but overall, if you want a cool place to hang out with a great vibe and great beer, this is the spot!
(4)
Christal S.
We stopped in here for a break between the Wyandotte Art Fair and the Trenton Street Fair. I started off with the pierogi appetizers which were 4 potato pierogies with grilled kraut and onions and a side of sour cream. Pretty darn tasty!! A friend ordered the pretzel bits with cheese and those were good. The pretzels were a little crunchier than I like but not bad. I tried the beer and cheese soup which was more beer than cheese and a little different. It was kind of watery and I like mine a little thicker. I had the $4 pepperoni pizza which was really tasty - had a great sauce. My husband ordered the chicken - n - waffles so I had to taste it and it was really tasty as well. My husband (a beer snob) also ordered the beer sampler and enjoyed at least 3 of them. Service was on the slow side (we had to ask for the check twice) and it wasn't very busy so not sure why. Consensus: if we are in the area and want a beer we will stop by.
(3)
Sheri H.
Went and tried this place on Saturday for the Brew Ha-Ha. The sign said "Please wait to be seated", so we waited and stood there and were totally ignored. So we went to the bar and asked where the beer tasting was. Went out to the patio and asked what their beer samples were. We were told rude manor that we should have seen the sign inside with beer samples. Got our samples and went inside and got a table. Then, we had a waitress that brought our menu and took the next beer sample order and never came back!!! So we asked another waitress to take our order. That waitress was fine. Ordered our food. I had a burger, which was good. My boyfriend and another friend of our ordered the New York Strip steak which was all fat and grissle and came with instant mashed potatoes. Not very good. We decided that after the service at this place, we would not go back.
(2)
Nikki C.
Both times that I've come here, I left saying "I've got to get back here more often!" The first time I came, I had a pretty good visit. Good food, good beer. This time was pretty awesome, too. I suggested going because I had a coupon from their e-newsletter. Wouldn't you know? I forgot the coupon -- I should have just shown it to the waiter on my phone. Anyway... After staring at the menu indecisively, I settled on the burger. How basic and boring of me?? Well, it was delicious anyway... I added the carmelized onions and pepper jack cheese. I keep wanting to try sweet potato fries... I've tried 3 times and each time, I end up saying ... "eh. big whoop." But what did I do? I ordered them here. They were just okay. I guess the whole sweet potato fry thing hasn't won me over. I asked for a little cup of syrup to dip them in. That contrasted with my burger and all of its juicyness. My bad. I ordered the Lincoln Lager and sampled the Sarsaparilla. The Lincoln Lager was... as they called it "for the people who don't know how to drink beer". Okay, I know how to drink beer, but the light, Lincoln Lager was familiar to me. The Sarsaparilla tasted like root beer.... then you get over it. My friend had the fish sandwich, cole slaw and tried an appetizer which was a boiled egg wrapped in sausage and rolled in breadcrumbs. Interesting. We also got the beer sampler. I highly advise this. Each little glass is enough for you to share with another. The food was as delicious as I last remembered. The service was swift and our server was cool. So cool that when he came to take our order, he said "okay, ready to rock?" hee hee. They have your typical bar trivia, Keno, a few TVs (not flat screens). DO sign up for their e-newsletter. You get a weekly newsletter from the beermaster and you get a heads up on the weekly specials, an occasional coupon and more! Friend them on facebook, also, to stay up-to-date. Cool place, not trashy, not all upscale. It's jussst right... I just have to remember to stop in more often.
(4)
Ryan M.
mm i love to come here with my friends. homer simson likes to drink beer and so does ryan. food is pretty good too. I'm afraid to say anything bad in case they read it and will be mean to me next time i come in lol. not that there would be many bad things to say.
(4)
Megan M.
We came for the sarsaparilla beer and sauerkraut balls, and we stayed for the extremely reasonable pricing and friendly service. Fort Street does very interesting things with beer. The "root beer beer" was well done, with a nose that was very much root beer, but the taste was happily more mellow. I was also delighted to see that they had beer cocktails, but the lagerita was bland and sweet, despite the salt rim. The Snowplow and Scotch ale were both quite good. My love affair with sauerkraut was the tipping factor in making the trip down to Lincoln Park, but the fried sauerkraut balls didn't quite live up to my imagination. They were tasty enough (what fried food isn't, really?), but too bready to consume a whole order of 8, even with four of us at the table. My vegetarian burger was OK; others at the table enthused mightily over the chicken and waffles. The atmosphere was very chill on a Sunday afternoon. There were just enough other patrons for the bar to feel friendly, but plenty of room to spread out and the pool table was open. I would definitely want to stop back by to try more unusual beer concoctions.
(3)
Dan L.
I've been going to Fort Street Brewery since the day it opened almost six or seven years ago and it's still one of my favorites in Michigan! Doug, the Brew master makes some of the best IPA's I've had, actually his was the 1st IPA I ever tried. It's been great to see this place evolve over the years and how Pete and Doug have grown the business, bettered their beers, and even made the food better. I have to admit the food at first was so-so, but Doug and Pete have worked hard to make things better and it definitely shows in their ever growing menu. The Thursday night cask tapping is a thing of beauty. Where else are you going to go where every Thursday you have an opportunity to try a new beer that you 99% more than likely not have any where else, or ever again for that matter? Yea sure, some of the beers are kinda gross due to the nature of experimentation, but some of 'em turn out awesome...I guess that's part of the charm and fun of it. Anytime I meet someone from out-of-town or who's new to craft beer, Fort Street is one of the first places I'll always send 'em.
(5)
Lee S.
The beers are always great, its not in the best part of Lincoln park, but parking is good. Food was tasty but nothing exciting, though they had just changed their menu when I was there last. Dessert was practically non-existant, but they did at least know how to get me a rye without a million questions.
(4)
Steve B.
Terrible service for a large party of 11. A group of my friends decided to try out FSB for some beers and food last night. When we walked in there were a good number of open tables and no one waiting to be seated. We were prepared to wait if we needed to being we had 11 total. The hostess looked at us like we were crazy when we said we had 11. Then the manager came up to us asking if we had a reservation and that there was a final four basketball game going on. Who makes a reservation for a bar? That is ludicrous. He said the tables up front were for a party of 11 that reserved them. Then he got snippy and started to move them together for us. He then said to us that "We got lucky" by him letting us have the table and him giving us the privilege to dine there. Talk about rude. Then a few moments later we witnessed the manager talking to a few waitresses and pointing to our table while flailing his arms in the air. I can only imagine what he was saying. Then we waited for our menus and to be served for another 10-15 minutes. When we asked if our bills could be separated (as soon as we ordered drinks, not at the end of the meal) the waitress gave a sigh and said that she guessed that they could be separated. The food was decent and the beer was average. So why were we getting the "members only" attitude from this place? I have traveled around the state trying out breweries and places of establishment who serve microbrew beers and have never encountered such poor customer service. So when we finally got to leave 3 hours later the manager came over to our table clearing it off and moving them before we walked away. There never was a standing room crowd there, even when we arrived. So his big hurry to push us out was confusing to everyone. We weren't rowdy or loud. We didn't demand attention either. So when the manager told us that "we got lucky" really in turn meant that everyone else who takes the time to read this review will "get lucky" by saving their money and time and going elsewhere. Avoid FSB at all costs.
(1)
Rich P.
More than just a bar. My wife and and I regularly go to Fort Street for dinner and drinks. Not only do they have excellent craft brewed beers, they have a great menu beyond your normal bar food. The menu is reasonably priced and they have weekly specials that are always awesome. We have a great meal at Fort Street with a couple of beers cheaper than Applebee's or Ruby Tuesday. There are normally 6 of Brew Master Doug's beers on tap with a new cask conditioned ale is tapped every Thursday night with great ceremony. The place is open, bright and clean. Definitely one of the best places to go downriver.
(5)
Linda V.
This Brewery is celebrating their 4th year in business. The Fort Street brewhouse is run by Brewmaster Doug Beedy. Doug is a native of Sault Ste. Marie, MI and a graduate of Michigan State University. He received his brewers training at the prestigious Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago and has worked at more than a dozen breweries in Michigan and Ohio. They tap a different cask of cask conditioned ale every other Thursday at Fort Street Brewery. The food is not to die for but when you are drinking good micro brew it doesn't matter if you have bad food. Their Summer Sensation beer is to die for. If you like what you drink there you can buy a Growler full to enjoy at home. Oh yeah they have Scotch Eggs......not too many other places have them other than the Renaissance Festival.
(4)
Kirsten T.
I really think that if you're an IPA-lover, you'll love the beer. I however, HATE bitter beers, and therefore have had only two beers at FSB that didn't make me want to send them back. Doug (the brewmaster) tries to be original and creative, and I give him major props for that. However, I feel that he throws extra hops into every batch he makes, and that's not always appropriate. Every style he puts out has a bite to it, and sometimes a little more malt would be highly appreciated. That being said, I do enjoy the food. They have a great "mini" menu, with munchies that are very tasty. Service is okay-- some of the girls seem a little less than knowledgeable about the menu items, but they are sweet and efficient.
(3)
Erin W.
This is a bar where I would actually spend time. Here are some reasons why: neither a sports bar nor a dive bar has a tasteful (read: low) number of tvs it's not too loud but the space is pretty large prompt service decent food and a nice selection of craft brews (I enjoyed a couple stouts) really good happy hour prices Check it out. But don't get too rowdy.
(4)
Great Lakes L.
If you like craft beer and watching sports while eating great burgers and sandwiches, then check out the Fort Street Brewery. There's plenty of room for you and your friends, and the prices are very affordable. My personal favorite off the menu is the crab cake sliders - they're out of this world.
(4)
Jim D.
Read some of the reviews on-line here and had high hopes, but... The service was good, we went Friday about 8:30 and they seated us right away. The beer was good. Had better and worse in my life. But the food was not very good. Let me stop right there. My food was not very good. Everyone else seemed to enjoy it, my wife even said it was one of the best burgers she's ever had. So either I'm surrounded by a bunch of fools with no taste or I ordered the wrong thing. I had the club with onion rings and it tasted like a club you would buy pre-made from a Kroger deli. The meat was packaged and the onion rings tasted like they were frozen. Guess I'll need to give it a second shot since everyone else seemed to like it. I'll just order something different
(3)
Lisa W.
The brew master at this brewery has it down to a science the beer is is fantastic! I recommend the Ipa's. If you are in the mood for a very good micro beer this is your place. The food is very good as well and matches up to the beer selections very well. They usually have good food specials as well. The best dish I've had there was a special they were running it was beef briskets soaked in beer sandwich with grilled onions and swiss on an onion roll! That was insane, it was very tender and juicy and full of flavor, it went perfect with the beer. The beer cheese soup is good if you get the pretzels for dipping I've also had the bratwurst and kraut and they did a great job on that. The only problem I have is that the service hasn't always been consistent I have had a few wait staff be very good and a few waitstaff that seemed to be to busy on a non busy night and has taken over 10 minutes sometimes when we first sit down to get a server.. Otherwise this restaurant would get 5 stars!
(4)
Margaret H.
Amazing food and beer! Their main menu features all sorts of burgers and sandwiches along with a few other items. My favorite is their rotating menu, there are always really delicious items on it. I have never been disappointed in my meal!
(5)
amy g.
This place is really great - Super staff :-) I love me some Guin & Krystal! Darts, pool, good food, and a very nice clean facility. Really cool, personable bartenders. It's also never been crazy busy, and I like that about this place. Can comfortably play some pool and enjoy a brew. I love the funny descriptions of the beers in their menu. Haha so good! I leave off a star because I'm not totally blown away by the beers but they're still good! I think I've just spoiled myself with too many Michigan beers. I do remember this place had a tapioca one though that I thought was pretty delish! Nice long bars, easily viewed tvs, and good company :)
(4)
Mike W.
Good beer, good grilled chicken sandwich, and overall a very nice place. Every Thursday they've got a new beer or two out , so there's always something new to try. Sheri mentioned lack of service for Brew ha-ha, but I'd encourage her to try it again. I was there shortly after it ended, and heard they just had much higher attendance than they anticipated. I wasn't there, I don't know, I just know I go there fairly regularly, and have never once had a problem with service. Give them another try sometime.
(5)
Kuekuatsu M.
I haven't been home in a while. I sometimes thought I would never come back, because of my job. But, the time came when, after all this time, I got to come home, I was elated. After the Telegraph Cruise, one of the stops in my whirlwind eat-drink fest was FortStreetBrewery. I walk in, and the place is enormous! I can see the equipment behind glass and wonderful pics on the walls as I 'belly up to the Bar. Deciding not to totally jump into the Cherry Bourbon (or the Bourbon Cherries) just yet, I order a Corktown Red Ale. Oh my...flavored from everywhere!!!! I have to laugh out loud, which made the bartender laugh...I am home. I had the sausages on pretzel buns with pierogi and sauerkraut. Handmade taste, Downriver Excellence! If you are looking for a place that appeals to the higher senses, a place where you can get great food, plenty of space and a great plate...check out one of the places in my hometown...and be amazed.
(5)
Melissa M.
The space itself is open and beautiful and the hostess was really nice! I just don't really like their beer. :/
(2)
Lauren Y.
Cute little pub in the down town area. The following of this bar is established and they do drink specials, happy hours and sell their own, brewed locally of course. I purchased an IPA growler as a gift and can't wait to try it out. From the looks of it, it's gonna be tasty.
(4)
Michael S.
I've been here a few times and my opinion, and it's based upon personal taste, has not changed. The establishment itself is nice. Plenty of seating and nicely styled. Staff is always pleasant and efficient. I can't speak to the food, but it does look good. It's the beer that doesn't impress me. It's pretty so-so to my palate. I know tastes are different, but there it is. I do know some who love their beer, though.
(3)
Vionte' S.
One of only two breweries DownRiver, the atmosphere is friendly and so is the staff! The food is really good, and the craft beers are reasonably priced. This place is definitely a gem!
(5)
Debi R.
My husband & I took his son here for his birthday & sat at the bar 15 min with no acknowledgement of our existence & there was only half a dozen people in there. When a group came in & sat at a table, a waitress went right over to them - we got up & left -will not go back!
(1)
Clete B.
Really nice place to watch the Lions game. Great atmosphere! Tried the appetizer sampler plate and loved the chicken especially on it. Wish I would have ordered the chicken instead of the cod. Cod breading was not great, seemed overcooked. Fries though were good. The cole slaw was a little more vinegary than what I'm accustomed to, but was still good. They brew their own beer. We had an IPA which seemed a little pricey for a pint, but was excellent. Overall great place. Will come back.
(4)
Rodger W.
I really like the beers that Doug makes. They are very creative brews that are not simply copies of Bell's beers, like most breweries brew around here. Recently I had super hoppy IPA from a firkin that had gummy bears in the cask. Also, the imperial stout "Beernormous" is very tasty. They always seem to have a great IPA on the offer. Right now there is a brew "One Bag of Hops" that is a very nice double IPA. Its a great thing that Downriver has a good brewery. My concern is that Downriverites who love their Bud Light and Natty Ice would not support it over the long run. I wish them luck.
(4)
Taurean V.
Fort Street Brewery is, in concept, what I like to think of when I think of a local brewery. New and different beers seem to pop up like crazy and I have tried some incredibly good ones here. Unfortunately they are fleeting and mixed with many not so good ones. Their normal line up is incredibly disappointing, with nothing I would ever crave to come back for. The food sounds pretty good on paper, especially the random specials, but has typically turned out below average. I can't say if it's preparation or just poor judgment. A lot of the times I've came it was for various "events", like a special beer release or whatever. I get the impression there is a distinct regulars clique and feel a little out of place, like I'm at a strangers birthday party with no invitation. I don't care much for the owner/brewer addressing the crowd randomly on the loudspeaker either. In the end I'll still pop in occasionally to see whats new and support a local brewery.
(3)
Angela H.
This place is pretty good. Great beer, good food (could be better, but good for bar food). Good place to catch a game on the big screen. My only complaint is that they would not fill up my growler from another brewery...which is fine, so I asked to purchase one of their growlers but they were sold out. They still refused to fill up the growler, so I was left with no beer and they were left without my business. Seems odd?
(3)
Topher D.
below average beer, from the boring to the tasteless to the undrinkable (root beer beer, I'm looking at you). pretty weak service as well, our waitress did not seem to want to be there. There's better places to go
(2)
Gigi B.
I DIG IT!!! For one....it's not far from me! 2....its nice looking, clean, safe, TV's, pool table, good & friendly service! 3.....the foods good, a lil better then regular good bar food! That'd be Good Good bar food! Great burgers...great mussels, fish and chips...etc. 4.....I don't do beer, but those big brass barrelly things that have the beer in them are sweeeet! I enjoy a cool neighborhood spot every now and then! This is where I Go!
(4)
Molly S.
I was introduced to Fort Street by a friend that lives in the area. An amazing selection of beer, and there is always something new on tap. A fun casual atmosphere with a fun and friendly staff and an interactive base of regular clientele. It is the kind of place that you want to go back to, even if you have to travel a bit. Their menu is as inventive as their beers and the food is good. I had a ham and apple Stromboli on my first visit, and have ventured the specials menu again and again. Their take on chicken and waffles is amazing... Good prices for quality food and drinks make me want to put Fort Street on my frequently visited list.
(4)
Bo M.
Went for lunch... Slow service... App came out with the entrees... Not my kind of food. Did not come here for the beer, which seems to be the thing. Don't get the BBQ pulled pork. It does not taste like the BBQ puled pork in the South. I will not be back.
(1)
Keith H.
Great to find a good microbrew right down the street from my work! Food is good, service is pleasant. 5-stars
(5)
David K.
I agree with many other yelpers, service is spotty. It often seems to take 15 minutes to cash out. That being said last night the service was spot on. I usually go for a special, shepherds pie, gyro tempted to try the beefarino :) . Went on a limb last night and tried the patty melt. Outside of a couple of newspaper sized chunks of onion it was pretty good, done just as I ordered. Its convenient, and reasonably cheap. I will return.
(4)
Mike O.
All I can say is their menu keeps me wanting more. I have the hardest time ordering here, I have my favorites but I keep wanting to order other things. They have a weekly special menu that changes on a regular basis, and its so good I have a hard time ordering off the regular menu. Fidel Castro had to kill 7 chefs before they came up with the perfect panini, and let me tell you it is perfect!! Wow. Oh and by the way on Thursday they tap a new specialty beer or two, if you are there around 8 the place really picks up.
(5)
Matt M.
GREAT BEER! A constantly changing rotation of unique beers. Cask ale and other special releases every Thursday night. Best "fan club" prices of any area brewery. The brewer is nearly always there and is happy to answer questions. They just began offering a Sunday Brunch menu too!
(5)
Hymae W.
Went here for a big group lunch at work. This place is DEAD during lunch. Their menu was pretty good for lunch and was even on the cheap side. I got the black bean burger (this should be a shocking choice if you know me). I am no pro of black bean burgers but i thought it was good. It took awhile for the food to get out but that's expected with group of 15+. I think everyone expected out boss to flip the bill but that didn't happen so we tried ot get it split up and did not succeed (which i hate). So we spent 20 mins figuring the bill out (thank god i had cash). I would like to come back to this place again after work and try there oatmeal wheat stout. I didnt have the balls to order it with my new boss their. Not sure if i am going to add this to my list of "places not to go if you only have an hour." I think i have to try going without a huge group first.
(3)
Julie C.
This place has great food and an excellent rootbeer beer. Our service was good. It was pretty loud but it was perfectly appropriate. I would come back.
(4)
drew k.
I have only been here one other time. It left a really good impression with me. This time a friend and i stopped by to scoop a growler and smash a pint or two. We had a chance to talk to the brewer for a few minutes and he seemed to take great pride in his work. Rightfully so. Doug brews amazing beer. I would go so far as to put them in the ranks with Kuehnen, Dragonmead and Traffic Jam as metro Detroit's best breweries.The bartender was super personable and knowledgeable about the beer and the overall state of local beers. She poured us spots of all the taps and decribed them well. The whole place is geared towards beer heads. They also have a pretty good liqour selection. They had a number of offerings on the board. The 6x6 is an interesting and complex brew. Made with 6 types of hops and 6 types of grain it offers a malty and well rounded hop flavor. The flavor profile changes nicely through the sip and the pint. The chocolate porter was an interesting flavor as well. It didn't have the thick body of most chocolate beers and still hit the bitterness of dark unsweetened chocolate. I remember the IPA being pretty good, but a little too hot for my tastes. She poured us some sort of sarsaparilla brewed beer that was fantastic as well. Everything on the beer menu was far above average and brought a smile to my face. The happy hour menu offerings looked pretty tempting too, but i was still stuffed and had to pass. I hope to come here again. Super friendly environment. tasty pints and cheap happy hour eats. A+.
(4)
Marj J.
Stopped here with my mom the other day for an early dinner. The food was IMO improved from the last time I had been there. It appears that they have streamlined their menu and the offerings are more cohesive and appropriate for the beer-pub atmosphere. I had the black bean burger which was really really good. I think that they made the patty there, it had a homemade flavor and texture. My mom had the sliders which were...well sliders. The fries were really good and served piping hot. The waitress recommended a beer that was to my taste as I prefer a Belgian ale style of beer. Kudo's to the owners for filling a niche Downriver.
(4)
Jacob F.
I'd really like to give Fort St five stars. I really would. The drinks are fairly priced, the beers (of which I've only had a few) are good, the atmosphere is relaxed but fun. The consistency in two areas, though, warrants only four stars... On most nights, service is great. Sitting at the bar is the best. But every so often there's a night where the service is pretty lacking. It's the exception rather than the rule, though. The food, though, is sort of hit or miss. The burgers - if cooked correctly (medium) are great... juicy and flavorful, topped with fresh tomato, lettuce and onion. But they don't always come out medium, unfortunately. I highly suggest the cuban and the monte christo, though. I've had much better luck with these two. Always satisfying. Oh and the fries are always great. They're always hot and cripsy. Overall, great place to hang all night, if you're into the casual eat and brew atmosphere and can weather the 2.5-star experience every seventh or eighth time you visit.
(4)
Bruce I.
Good beer. Decent food. Lots of tv's
(3)
Matteo C.
Bearded bartender ruined my experience. Should a bartender try to build a sliver or rapport with a customer? This guy was a jerk. Here's hoping the owner reads Yelp... I was going to meet a couple friends up there - but after 15 minutes of this clown. I told my friends to meet me elsewhere. A bad, unfriendly bartender that can't even ask: "How's your food/beer?" "Do you need anything?" That WILL cost you business. Probably $50-$75 worth yesterday. Too bad for me, as I like their beer and food, and prices. And until today: the atmosphere. Nice clean place, lots of TVs. I'm still going back - but if I see that #ahole with the beard, I'm walking right out...I suggest you do the same.
(4)
P B.
Fort Street Brewery has disappointed me all three times I have been here. The beer is hit-and-miss, if they even have it. I say this because one time all they had was a light beer and a sarsaparilla (actually not bad, you just have to be in the right mood for it). The last time I was here I tried "The Queen", an Imperial IPA, which had less of the bitter hop flavor and fragrant hop aroma that you might expect, and more of an old sponge aroma and dirty dishrag finish. The food here is ok, in fact last time it was actually good. I'd recommend staying away from the Brewery Dip (French Dip) if you typically enjoy this sandwich. I'm by no means a French Dip connoisseur, but when the sandwich is absent of flavor I know it isn't right. Overall the Fort Street Brewery fails as a brewpub. Apparently enough people feel the same way as I do that you can walk in here at 12:30 PM on a Saturday during football season and pretty much have the place to yourself.
(2)
Kevin P.
we like FORT STREET BREWERY and the people are friendly and the main bartender there, Justin (with the beard), we think is just fantastic and very efficient and always on time with drinks and checking on how our food was....also very good with doing our keno. food is very good and beers are very good also with very good mixed drinks. not sure who that was that wrote the august of 2013 review about the bearded bartender but YOU must have not had a good day PERIOD because he is an EXCELLENT bartender and VERY NICE, so perhaps next time, YOU might not come in, in a bad mood and put him down on your review. we get to go there more often now that husband's shift has changed so we are happy about that.
(4)
W. John R.
I discovered this place through the Michigan Brewer's Guild and have never made such a wonderful discovery. This is my "go-to" place any time friends from out of town come to visit, and my hangout when my friends are willing to spend a few bucks. Fantastic beers, wonderfully rotating selection, excellent gourmet food, and a brewmaster (Doug) who personally greets every table and remembers your face (if not your name). This place is one of the greatest nights out you can have, whether it's a Tuesday or a Saturday.
(4)
Lisa M.
Was here recently with some friends and I have to base this review on the fact they only had four beers on tap and we only got dessert, but they have many more listed on their website. I get that home brewed beers are made in smaller batches but to me a brewery is going to have multiple brews on tap at all times. Now that said, the root beer flavored beer was good. I'm not a huge beer drinker but I really liked this one. On a side note, the desert was great. We got the brownie and between three people it was more than enough! I will be back again to try more of the menu and update my review. One last note, our server acted like she would have rather been anywhere else but there and was lax in checking on us. At one point we caught her gossiping with another waitress about a table right out in the open. I get it, a table might have been bad tippers, etc. but go in the back - your attitude gets reflected in tips and if I see you have one I might be inclined to tip you less.
(3)
Chris S.
To be honest, you earn at least 3 stars just for opening as a microwbrew, in a vacant market. But Fort Street Brewery strives to really impress. Their interesting concoctions are always fun to try, and their staples pretty solid. Their sarsaparilla beer is one of the most popular, and oddly tastes just like a root beer, but beer. Yeah, odd yet good. They have cask pours pretty regularly, which can be hit or miss. All of their pours are cheap, which is another shining point that Fort Street has in my book. Their hours are a bit strange, as during the week they close fairly early. The crowd is equally as interesting, as some days you can go in and there are only a few people late in the evening, and other days where it is packed. Either way, I love having a decent microbrewery a few miles from my family, making visits much easier.
(4)
Craig R.
Hands down my favorite brewpub in Metro Detroit. Great food, cheap prices, liquor promos, and rotating food specials every week. Pint prices are generally $3.00-4.50 which is cheaper than pretty much any other brewpub and the beer is as good or better. They have pitcher specials too, but sadly I live too far to take advantage. They tap a new cask or release a new beer(sometimes both) every Thursday. Usually the cask is a regular beer with something extra added to the cask(orange peel, chocolate syrup, etc.) Edit: Doug brews some of my favorite IPAs. I'd say Piston Pale is on par with Bell's Two Hearted which is saying a lot.
(5)
Mickie W.
Fresh brewed beer, Bar food, and lots of TV's. What more could anyone want :)
(5)
Allison F.
Jake and I have visited a few more times to find that most of our favorite servers still work there and the rude ones are gone. The food was right and the drinks were good. Maybe we'll start being regulars again. I sit at the bar for the most consistent experience.
(3)
John N.
I've been here 3 times and each time I left saying to myself "wow, I'll never go there again." The main problem, as I see it, is that they try to do too much and would be better off if they focused on trying to do a few things well rather than a lot of things poorly. The brewery comes out with new beers almost weekly. But the beers have a very thin quality to them and are either tasteless or disgusting (I guess I'd prefer tasteless). The service was consistently poor and the food almost inedible. The owner/ brewer also loves to get on a megaphone and go on prolonged rants about his awful beers.
(1)
Natalie M.
The service is spotty. Sometimes it's great, sometimes they ignore you the entire time. The beer is pretty good, but the food leaves a lot to be desired. The only thing that I can say that they have better than the rest is their french fries. Those are very good. Last time I went, I got chicken tenders and they were really hard, like a jerky almost. The time before that, I got Fish and Chips and the fish was soggy and undercooked. I also don't like that they close the kitchen at 10. So if you want to get a beer after work, you get off at 9, and want some Apps, you might as well forget it. This place is just "Okay". That's all I can say about it.
(3)
Jerod B.
Tradition! Every year we gather with some friends and eat here on our arrival. We love the beer, the food and the atmosphere. The root beer beer is outstanding, i could drink a pitcher by myself. The food was and is outstanding. Cannot wait until next year. If you are going by, stop in and eat...ohh, try the beer as well!!
(5)
Jerry M.
We went here on a Friday night and they only had 4 beers on tap with more coming out the next day. The waitress mentioned they didn't think they were going to be as busy as they have been and ran out. The service was ok and the beer was pretty tasty. They had very reasonable prices for both spirits and also beer. They also had an interesting section on the menu that I didn't try but wouldn't mind going back to try for beer and liquor combo drinks. The only beer that I wasn't a big fan of was the root-beer flavored beer. It reminded me of drinking a flat root-beer. I could just shake up a can at home for the same effect. On a side note we didn't eat at the fort street brewery except for dessert. Let me tell you the brownie dessert is huge. Our table of 4 picked at it and had lots left over.
(3)
Orlando N.
FSB IS AWESOME!!! Good beer, good service, and clean taps. Yay!!! The Lincoln Lagger was tops, Jake was friendly and knowlageable, and the bar looked great. I will be back.
(5)
Stephen N.
I think the best part about Fort Street Brewery is the space. I know that's kind of petty but I'm getting tired of being crammed into a table and being a flick away from the neighbors. The place is really spacious with TV's and the sound volume of the patrons and the TV is just right. They probably have 20 foot ceilings and it's far from claustrophobic. I changed my mind. My favorite thing about FSB is the consistency in their food. No doubt their chef is a bit of an experimenter and it's pretty darn cool when it works. Last night, the better half had one of their specials which was vegetarian stuffed peppers. Less than $10, they served a green and red pepper megastuffed with rice and other veg filling and it was really perfect on a summer night. Delightful! The kid got the chicken wrap which was pretty mainstream fixings and I got the chicken fajita pizza, of which I was forced to share half because it was so damned yummy. No. I changed my mind again. The beer is my favorite. I'm not much of a beer snob any more and used to brew my own 50 pounds ago. (Homebrew can be around 4X the calories of your average light beer. Much more rewarding, I'll give you that. But you'll be wearing those rewards in no time.) I try to get a different brew at each visit. OK. I'll admit. It's a bit girly but I got the cider ale. With all of the new ciders on the market, these guys attempted a different twist by mixing 25% cider and the rest ale. Fabulous results. Not as crispy and light as normal 100% ciders but actually more flavorful with the body of your average pale ale. The place is modern brewpub and you get what you pay for. I'm getting thirsty writing this.....
(4)
Ian K.
The beer was good, the food was decent, but the staff was rude as anything - it turns out the person who was completely obnoxious is the brewer and owner. I made a polite request and he bit my head off. Fine, I guess you don't need my money.
(1)
Dale R.
This place is a great place to hang out with your friends or on a date. A very cool vibe with friendly professional staff. The food is good and the beer outstanding. This place is for sure one of the coolest places downriver and I'm proud to have it in Lincoln Park. Check it out!
(5)
Sip C.
Update, since I've unequivocally become a regular. There is very good service here. There is also very bad. Luckily, the latter often doesn't last, but I can't fault people for not knowing what server they're going to get. As for everything else: still haven't had a beer here I didn't like, their rotating small batches are a rare find even in the beer Mecca that is Michigan and the food specials are usually pretty inspired when they have a head chef. They had lots of turn over on the kitchen front for awhile, but their latest chef has stayed and is great.
(5)
Chris S.
Slow service and average food...why visit??? I've been to Fort Street Brewery a few times now, culminating with my visit at lunchtime on St. Patty's Day, and every time I've been there the service has been insanely slow that lunch time almost turns into dinner time! On this most recent visit, we were worried about it being busy for the March 17th holiday, but surprisingly, they appeared to have their average lunch crowd. Even with the small numbers, they STILL ran out of one of their specials for the day, shepherd's pie, and it was only 12 noon! Put our orders in around 12:10 and it literally took them 45 minutes to get us our food. Plus, the waitress clearly did not think this was a problem; no apologies or even acknowledgement of the long wait. Yes they have a good selection of beer, but their food and their service is subpar and really not worth the trip. Find a different microbrewery to visit.
(2)
Victoria C.
Very nice atmosphere, good selection of beer. Good place to go with a larger group or just a few friends.
(4)
Matthew G.
Clean, good food, good beer, friendly atmosphere, and the service is good too. Good bar.
(4)
Liz W.
I have swung by a few times and I always have had a good time with inexpensive yet quality bar food and a bit of a different take on beer. I'll be honest, you have me with chicken and waffles. Beer battered smelt? Yeah It requires me to bring my dad to feast. Beer can chicken? Oh yeah now I am happy. At least treat yourself to a fabu scotch egg if you aren't that hungry or some pierogi smothered in kraut and onions. It's bar food yes but tasty bar food. Wash it down with beers like Doug's Turbo Sarsaparilla (a great beer for a lightweight like me) or a smooth as silk Corktown Red. Service has been good. It's roomy in here and overall just a comfortable place to be. It has a distinct taste and personality and I for one appreciate that. Kick back and watch a game or just sip a brew (or two).
(4)
Reem F.
Food is NOT good and the owners are totally full of themselves and rude! Never will go back!!!!
(1)
Brian W.
Beer samplings are good. The food is average. Asked for the taco pizza it was dry so I thought maybe some sour cream and salsa could spruce it up. When I got my bill I noticed they charged me extra for what amounted to about two tablespoons of each. This is a condiment not a side dish people.
(3)
Christopher D.
The good - Every once in a while they have a gem of a beer, and they are one of only two breweries in Downriver that I know of (the other one, in Wyandotte, isn't anything to write home about). Also every Thursday they release a small batch cask that is usually decent. I also find their food to be decent. Not great but typical pub food. The bad - Most of their beers are mediocre at best, they often only have 3-4 beers, and their 2 most available beers (Lincoln Lager and the root beer beer) are not very good. The ugly - Their service is usually pretty terrible. I'm easy going but when there are only 10 patrons and I have to walk to the other side of the bar to ask for another beer (or a glass of water) because I'm sick of waiting 10+ mins...there is an issue. Simple food orders are often screwed up, and many times I have to track down the waiter because they didn't ask if I needed a condiment or water refill. I've noticed that 2-3 waiters there are abysmal, 1-2 are actually respectable, and the rest are generally adequate but oft inattentive. Would give 2.5 stars but will round up to 3.
(3)
Gary P.
Manager was very rude to our group who asked for separate checks. We intentionally had fewer than 8 in our party- no reservation. When a couple other friends joined us, the manager informed us it would be on one bill and he refused to separate it. The waitress was very apologetic and did the best she could to accommodate the 9 credit cards and scratch notes we gave her. The manager did point us to the ATM, noting rules are rules. I have been here many times before with one or two people and did not ever experience such a mean-spirited manager like this. We were a quiet, professional group buying food and drinks like everyone else. The place wasn't even busy. 4pm crowd
(1)
Vickie R.
Excellent place to be at any day of the week, but especially Thursdays. Each Thursday a new, carefully concocted keg gets tapped, and the beer will flow until the keg is empty. If you're lucky, your glass of the newly tapped beer will have a sticker at the bottom of the glass for drawings for different prizes. Doug, the brewmaster, will propose a toast as well. Don't expect any beer there to taste like the cheap and nasty stuff you can buy at the store, every beer (except for one, IMO) is an absolute treat. I won't tell you which one is the exception, you'll have to go and find out. But I guarantee you, you'll know exactly which one it is when you try it. LOL. The food is fabulous. I love the French Dip. The soft pretzel is great, so are the pierogies and sausages. The atmosphere of FSB is relaxed and fun. Everyone is having a great time. The staff is attentive, even Doug will jump in and help out as a host, or even a server, when it gets busy. That makes me enjoy FSB that much more endearing. :-)
(5)
John B.
Beer is good when available. Multiple times they have only had a couple choices. Food is sub par at best. Used to be better but has gone down hill in years past. Now the icing on the cake, THE SERVICE. The service is never good. Cocky young people who just want to serve their friends and chat it up at the bar. Hey people its 2014, social media in full force. Train your waitstaff, teach them to be nice, make them learn the menu, the beers, etc. Enough is a enough we want better service.
(2)
Samir N.
Aw, man! There are so many FANtastic things happening here. The beer is awesome - the Sunsation, Amber Waves of Michigan Wheat, and root beer-flavored sarsaparilla are all delicious. In fact, I am upset at all the people I have ever met from Downriver that did not tell me about this place. It is a gorgeous space and a great place to catch a Tiger's butt whoopin'. There are plenty of TVs and they play the sound. I had the thanksgiving burger (my name, not there's). With turkey, cranberry sauce, and on a pretzel bun it is as Amurrican as Ricky Bobby. It is a worthy compromise between healthy and tasty. I would not hesitate to have it again. On top of that, the prices are awesome! I wish I could watch the whole Tiger's game here without worrying how to drive home!
(5)
Michael R.
Very much enjoyed our first time here. The beer was great and quite unique offering. The hummus was a huge portion and very flavorful. We split the duck sliders which were very good and who has ever had duck sliders?? Cool atmosphere and very attentive staff. Great experience!
(4)
Kelli B.
I want to love this place! I don't! It really bums me out! There are times my friends mention this place and I think, "eh, why the hell not!", each time disappointed. The food isn't anything I ever think about or crave, I couldn't even tell you what's on the menu but that I never would order it again. One beer is good, Sunsational (I think that is what it is called), it is a seasonal beer. I'd consider getting a growler of that. Service isn't bad but I don't think they really enjoy being there, or know the beer, or the food. It's weird going to a business and asking questions and the servers answers are very indifferent. Almost as if they don't care or like anything they sell.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Music : Juke Box Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Jerod B.
Tradition! Every year we gather with some friends and eat here on our arrival. We love the beer, the food and the atmosphere. The root beer beer is outstanding, i could drink a pitcher by myself. The food was and is outstanding. Cannot wait until next year. If you are going by, stop in and eat...ohh, try the beer as well!!
(5)Kuekuatsu M.
I haven't been home in a while. I sometimes thought I would never come back, because of my job. But, the time came when, after all this time, I got to come home, I was elated. After the Telegraph Cruise, one of the stops in my whirlwind eat-drink fest was FortStreetBrewery. I walk in, and the place is enormous! I can see the equipment behind glass and wonderful pics on the walls as I 'belly up to the Bar. Deciding not to totally jump into the Cherry Bourbon (or the Bourbon Cherries) just yet, I order a Corktown Red Ale. Oh my...flavored from everywhere!!!! I have to laugh out loud, which made the bartender laugh...I am home. I had the sausages on pretzel buns with pierogi and sauerkraut. Handmade taste, Downriver Excellence! If you are looking for a place that appeals to the higher senses, a place where you can get great food, plenty of space and a great plate...check out one of the places in my hometown...and be amazed.
(5)Kelli B.
I want to love this place! I don't! It really bums me out! There are times my friends mention this place and I think, "eh, why the hell not!", each time disappointed. The food isn't anything I ever think about or crave, I couldn't even tell you what's on the menu but that I never would order it again. One beer is good, Sunsational (I think that is what it is called), it is a seasonal beer. I'd consider getting a growler of that. Service isn't bad but I don't think they really enjoy being there, or know the beer, or the food. It's weird going to a business and asking questions and the servers answers are very indifferent. Almost as if they don't care or like anything they sell.
(1)Rodger W.
I really like the beers that Doug makes. They are very creative brews that are not simply copies of Bell's beers, like most breweries brew around here. Recently I had super hoppy IPA from a firkin that had gummy bears in the cask. Also, the imperial stout "Beernormous" is very tasty. They always seem to have a great IPA on the offer. Right now there is a brew "One Bag of Hops" that is a very nice double IPA. Its a great thing that Downriver has a good brewery. My concern is that Downriverites who love their Bud Light and Natty Ice would not support it over the long run. I wish them luck.
(4)Gary P.
Manager was very rude to our group who asked for separate checks. We intentionally had fewer than 8 in our party- no reservation. When a couple other friends joined us, the manager informed us it would be on one bill and he refused to separate it. The waitress was very apologetic and did the best she could to accommodate the 9 credit cards and scratch notes we gave her. The manager did point us to the ATM, noting rules are rules. I have been here many times before with one or two people and did not ever experience such a mean-spirited manager like this. We were a quiet, professional group buying food and drinks like everyone else. The place wasn't even busy. 4pm crowd
(1)Vickie R.
Excellent place to be at any day of the week, but especially Thursdays. Each Thursday a new, carefully concocted keg gets tapped, and the beer will flow until the keg is empty. If you're lucky, your glass of the newly tapped beer will have a sticker at the bottom of the glass for drawings for different prizes. Doug, the brewmaster, will propose a toast as well. Don't expect any beer there to taste like the cheap and nasty stuff you can buy at the store, every beer (except for one, IMO) is an absolute treat. I won't tell you which one is the exception, you'll have to go and find out. But I guarantee you, you'll know exactly which one it is when you try it. LOL. The food is fabulous. I love the French Dip. The soft pretzel is great, so are the pierogies and sausages. The atmosphere of FSB is relaxed and fun. Everyone is having a great time. The staff is attentive, even Doug will jump in and help out as a host, or even a server, when it gets busy. That makes me enjoy FSB that much more endearing. :-)
(5)John B.
Beer is good when available. Multiple times they have only had a couple choices. Food is sub par at best. Used to be better but has gone down hill in years past. Now the icing on the cake, THE SERVICE. The service is never good. Cocky young people who just want to serve their friends and chat it up at the bar. Hey people its 2014, social media in full force. Train your waitstaff, teach them to be nice, make them learn the menu, the beers, etc. Enough is a enough we want better service.
(2)Samir N.
Aw, man! There are so many FANtastic things happening here. The beer is awesome - the Sunsation, Amber Waves of Michigan Wheat, and root beer-flavored sarsaparilla are all delicious. In fact, I am upset at all the people I have ever met from Downriver that did not tell me about this place. It is a gorgeous space and a great place to catch a Tiger's butt whoopin'. There are plenty of TVs and they play the sound. I had the thanksgiving burger (my name, not there's). With turkey, cranberry sauce, and on a pretzel bun it is as Amurrican as Ricky Bobby. It is a worthy compromise between healthy and tasty. I would not hesitate to have it again. On top of that, the prices are awesome! I wish I could watch the whole Tiger's game here without worrying how to drive home!
(5)Michael R.
Very much enjoyed our first time here. The beer was great and quite unique offering. The hummus was a huge portion and very flavorful. We split the duck sliders which were very good and who has ever had duck sliders?? Cool atmosphere and very attentive staff. Great experience!
(4)Jerry M.
We went here on a Friday night and they only had 4 beers on tap with more coming out the next day. The waitress mentioned they didn't think they were going to be as busy as they have been and ran out. The service was ok and the beer was pretty tasty. They had very reasonable prices for both spirits and also beer. They also had an interesting section on the menu that I didn't try but wouldn't mind going back to try for beer and liquor combo drinks. The only beer that I wasn't a big fan of was the root-beer flavored beer. It reminded me of drinking a flat root-beer. I could just shake up a can at home for the same effect. On a side note we didn't eat at the fort street brewery except for dessert. Let me tell you the brownie dessert is huge. Our table of 4 picked at it and had lots left over.
(3)P B.
Fort Street Brewery has disappointed me all three times I have been here. The beer is hit-and-miss, if they even have it. I say this because one time all they had was a light beer and a sarsaparilla (actually not bad, you just have to be in the right mood for it). The last time I was here I tried "The Queen", an Imperial IPA, which had less of the bitter hop flavor and fragrant hop aroma that you might expect, and more of an old sponge aroma and dirty dishrag finish. The food here is ok, in fact last time it was actually good. I'd recommend staying away from the Brewery Dip (French Dip) if you typically enjoy this sandwich. I'm by no means a French Dip connoisseur, but when the sandwich is absent of flavor I know it isn't right. Overall the Fort Street Brewery fails as a brewpub. Apparently enough people feel the same way as I do that you can walk in here at 12:30 PM on a Saturday during football season and pretty much have the place to yourself.
(2)Kevin P.
we like FORT STREET BREWERY and the people are friendly and the main bartender there, Justin (with the beard), we think is just fantastic and very efficient and always on time with drinks and checking on how our food was....also very good with doing our keno. food is very good and beers are very good also with very good mixed drinks. not sure who that was that wrote the august of 2013 review about the bearded bartender but YOU must have not had a good day PERIOD because he is an EXCELLENT bartender and VERY NICE, so perhaps next time, YOU might not come in, in a bad mood and put him down on your review. we get to go there more often now that husband's shift has changed so we are happy about that.
(4)W. John R.
I discovered this place through the Michigan Brewer's Guild and have never made such a wonderful discovery. This is my "go-to" place any time friends from out of town come to visit, and my hangout when my friends are willing to spend a few bucks. Fantastic beers, wonderfully rotating selection, excellent gourmet food, and a brewmaster (Doug) who personally greets every table and remembers your face (if not your name). This place is one of the greatest nights out you can have, whether it's a Tuesday or a Saturday.
(4)Lisa M.
Was here recently with some friends and I have to base this review on the fact they only had four beers on tap and we only got dessert, but they have many more listed on their website. I get that home brewed beers are made in smaller batches but to me a brewery is going to have multiple brews on tap at all times. Now that said, the root beer flavored beer was good. I'm not a huge beer drinker but I really liked this one. On a side note, the desert was great. We got the brownie and between three people it was more than enough! I will be back again to try more of the menu and update my review. One last note, our server acted like she would have rather been anywhere else but there and was lax in checking on us. At one point we caught her gossiping with another waitress about a table right out in the open. I get it, a table might have been bad tippers, etc. but go in the back - your attitude gets reflected in tips and if I see you have one I might be inclined to tip you less.
(3)Chris S.
To be honest, you earn at least 3 stars just for opening as a microwbrew, in a vacant market. But Fort Street Brewery strives to really impress. Their interesting concoctions are always fun to try, and their staples pretty solid. Their sarsaparilla beer is one of the most popular, and oddly tastes just like a root beer, but beer. Yeah, odd yet good. They have cask pours pretty regularly, which can be hit or miss. All of their pours are cheap, which is another shining point that Fort Street has in my book. Their hours are a bit strange, as during the week they close fairly early. The crowd is equally as interesting, as some days you can go in and there are only a few people late in the evening, and other days where it is packed. Either way, I love having a decent microbrewery a few miles from my family, making visits much easier.
(4)Nikki C.
Both times that I've come here, I left saying "I've got to get back here more often!" The first time I came, I had a pretty good visit. Good food, good beer. This time was pretty awesome, too. I suggested going because I had a coupon from their e-newsletter. Wouldn't you know? I forgot the coupon -- I should have just shown it to the waiter on my phone. Anyway... After staring at the menu indecisively, I settled on the burger. How basic and boring of me?? Well, it was delicious anyway... I added the carmelized onions and pepper jack cheese. I keep wanting to try sweet potato fries... I've tried 3 times and each time, I end up saying ... "eh. big whoop." But what did I do? I ordered them here. They were just okay. I guess the whole sweet potato fry thing hasn't won me over. I asked for a little cup of syrup to dip them in. That contrasted with my burger and all of its juicyness. My bad. I ordered the Lincoln Lager and sampled the Sarsaparilla. The Lincoln Lager was... as they called it "for the people who don't know how to drink beer". Okay, I know how to drink beer, but the light, Lincoln Lager was familiar to me. The Sarsaparilla tasted like root beer.... then you get over it. My friend had the fish sandwich, cole slaw and tried an appetizer which was a boiled egg wrapped in sausage and rolled in breadcrumbs. Interesting. We also got the beer sampler. I highly advise this. Each little glass is enough for you to share with another. The food was as delicious as I last remembered. The service was swift and our server was cool. So cool that when he came to take our order, he said "okay, ready to rock?" hee hee. They have your typical bar trivia, Keno, a few TVs (not flat screens). DO sign up for their e-newsletter. You get a weekly newsletter from the beermaster and you get a heads up on the weekly specials, an occasional coupon and more! Friend them on facebook, also, to stay up-to-date. Cool place, not trashy, not all upscale. It's jussst right... I just have to remember to stop in more often.
(4)Ryan M.
mm i love to come here with my friends. homer simson likes to drink beer and so does ryan. food is pretty good too. I'm afraid to say anything bad in case they read it and will be mean to me next time i come in lol. not that there would be many bad things to say.
(4)Mickie W.
Fresh brewed beer, Bar food, and lots of TV's. What more could anyone want :)
(5)Allison F.
Jake and I have visited a few more times to find that most of our favorite servers still work there and the rude ones are gone. The food was right and the drinks were good. Maybe we'll start being regulars again. I sit at the bar for the most consistent experience.
(3)Hymae W.
Went here for a big group lunch at work. This place is DEAD during lunch. Their menu was pretty good for lunch and was even on the cheap side. I got the black bean burger (this should be a shocking choice if you know me). I am no pro of black bean burgers but i thought it was good. It took awhile for the food to get out but that's expected with group of 15+. I think everyone expected out boss to flip the bill but that didn't happen so we tried ot get it split up and did not succeed (which i hate). So we spent 20 mins figuring the bill out (thank god i had cash). I would like to come back to this place again after work and try there oatmeal wheat stout. I didnt have the balls to order it with my new boss their. Not sure if i am going to add this to my list of "places not to go if you only have an hour." I think i have to try going without a huge group first.
(3)Julie C.
This place has great food and an excellent rootbeer beer. Our service was good. It was pretty loud but it was perfectly appropriate. I would come back.
(4)drew k.
I have only been here one other time. It left a really good impression with me. This time a friend and i stopped by to scoop a growler and smash a pint or two. We had a chance to talk to the brewer for a few minutes and he seemed to take great pride in his work. Rightfully so. Doug brews amazing beer. I would go so far as to put them in the ranks with Kuehnen, Dragonmead and Traffic Jam as metro Detroit's best breweries.The bartender was super personable and knowledgeable about the beer and the overall state of local beers. She poured us spots of all the taps and decribed them well. The whole place is geared towards beer heads. They also have a pretty good liqour selection. They had a number of offerings on the board. The 6x6 is an interesting and complex brew. Made with 6 types of hops and 6 types of grain it offers a malty and well rounded hop flavor. The flavor profile changes nicely through the sip and the pint. The chocolate porter was an interesting flavor as well. It didn't have the thick body of most chocolate beers and still hit the bitterness of dark unsweetened chocolate. I remember the IPA being pretty good, but a little too hot for my tastes. She poured us some sort of sarsaparilla brewed beer that was fantastic as well. Everything on the beer menu was far above average and brought a smile to my face. The happy hour menu offerings looked pretty tempting too, but i was still stuffed and had to pass. I hope to come here again. Super friendly environment. tasty pints and cheap happy hour eats. A+.
(4)Marj J.
Stopped here with my mom the other day for an early dinner. The food was IMO improved from the last time I had been there. It appears that they have streamlined their menu and the offerings are more cohesive and appropriate for the beer-pub atmosphere. I had the black bean burger which was really really good. I think that they made the patty there, it had a homemade flavor and texture. My mom had the sliders which were...well sliders. The fries were really good and served piping hot. The waitress recommended a beer that was to my taste as I prefer a Belgian ale style of beer. Kudo's to the owners for filling a niche Downriver.
(4)Jacob F.
I'd really like to give Fort St five stars. I really would. The drinks are fairly priced, the beers (of which I've only had a few) are good, the atmosphere is relaxed but fun. The consistency in two areas, though, warrants only four stars... On most nights, service is great. Sitting at the bar is the best. But every so often there's a night where the service is pretty lacking. It's the exception rather than the rule, though. The food, though, is sort of hit or miss. The burgers - if cooked correctly (medium) are great... juicy and flavorful, topped with fresh tomato, lettuce and onion. But they don't always come out medium, unfortunately. I highly suggest the cuban and the monte christo, though. I've had much better luck with these two. Always satisfying. Oh and the fries are always great. They're always hot and cripsy. Overall, great place to hang all night, if you're into the casual eat and brew atmosphere and can weather the 2.5-star experience every seventh or eighth time you visit.
(4)Bruce I.
Good beer. Decent food. Lots of tv's
(3)Matteo C.
Bearded bartender ruined my experience. Should a bartender try to build a sliver or rapport with a customer? This guy was a jerk. Here's hoping the owner reads Yelp... I was going to meet a couple friends up there - but after 15 minutes of this clown. I told my friends to meet me elsewhere. A bad, unfriendly bartender that can't even ask: "How's your food/beer?" "Do you need anything?" That WILL cost you business. Probably $50-$75 worth yesterday. Too bad for me, as I like their beer and food, and prices. And until today: the atmosphere. Nice clean place, lots of TVs. I'm still going back - but if I see that #ahole with the beard, I'm walking right out...I suggest you do the same.
(4)Erin W.
This is a bar where I would actually spend time. Here are some reasons why: neither a sports bar nor a dive bar has a tasteful (read: low) number of tvs it's not too loud but the space is pretty large prompt service decent food and a nice selection of craft brews (I enjoyed a couple stouts) really good happy hour prices Check it out. But don't get too rowdy.
(4)Great Lakes L.
If you like craft beer and watching sports while eating great burgers and sandwiches, then check out the Fort Street Brewery. There's plenty of room for you and your friends, and the prices are very affordable. My personal favorite off the menu is the crab cake sliders - they're out of this world.
(4)Megan M.
We came for the sarsaparilla beer and sauerkraut balls, and we stayed for the extremely reasonable pricing and friendly service. Fort Street does very interesting things with beer. The "root beer beer" was well done, with a nose that was very much root beer, but the taste was happily more mellow. I was also delighted to see that they had beer cocktails, but the lagerita was bland and sweet, despite the salt rim. The Snowplow and Scotch ale were both quite good. My love affair with sauerkraut was the tipping factor in making the trip down to Lincoln Park, but the fried sauerkraut balls didn't quite live up to my imagination. They were tasty enough (what fried food isn't, really?), but too bready to consume a whole order of 8, even with four of us at the table. My vegetarian burger was OK; others at the table enthused mightily over the chicken and waffles. The atmosphere was very chill on a Sunday afternoon. There were just enough other patrons for the bar to feel friendly, but plenty of room to spread out and the pool table was open. I would definitely want to stop back by to try more unusual beer concoctions.
(3)Dan L.
I've been going to Fort Street Brewery since the day it opened almost six or seven years ago and it's still one of my favorites in Michigan! Doug, the Brew master makes some of the best IPA's I've had, actually his was the 1st IPA I ever tried. It's been great to see this place evolve over the years and how Pete and Doug have grown the business, bettered their beers, and even made the food better. I have to admit the food at first was so-so, but Doug and Pete have worked hard to make things better and it definitely shows in their ever growing menu. The Thursday night cask tapping is a thing of beauty. Where else are you going to go where every Thursday you have an opportunity to try a new beer that you 99% more than likely not have any where else, or ever again for that matter? Yea sure, some of the beers are kinda gross due to the nature of experimentation, but some of 'em turn out awesome...I guess that's part of the charm and fun of it. Anytime I meet someone from out-of-town or who's new to craft beer, Fort Street is one of the first places I'll always send 'em.
(5)Lee S.
The beers are always great, its not in the best part of Lincoln park, but parking is good. Food was tasty but nothing exciting, though they had just changed their menu when I was there last. Dessert was practically non-existant, but they did at least know how to get me a rye without a million questions.
(4)Kirsten T.
I really think that if you're an IPA-lover, you'll love the beer. I however, HATE bitter beers, and therefore have had only two beers at FSB that didn't make me want to send them back. Doug (the brewmaster) tries to be original and creative, and I give him major props for that. However, I feel that he throws extra hops into every batch he makes, and that's not always appropriate. Every style he puts out has a bite to it, and sometimes a little more malt would be highly appreciated. That being said, I do enjoy the food. They have a great "mini" menu, with munchies that are very tasty. Service is okay-- some of the girls seem a little less than knowledgeable about the menu items, but they are sweet and efficient.
(3)John N.
I've been here 3 times and each time I left saying to myself "wow, I'll never go there again." The main problem, as I see it, is that they try to do too much and would be better off if they focused on trying to do a few things well rather than a lot of things poorly. The brewery comes out with new beers almost weekly. But the beers have a very thin quality to them and are either tasteless or disgusting (I guess I'd prefer tasteless). The service was consistently poor and the food almost inedible. The owner/ brewer also loves to get on a megaphone and go on prolonged rants about his awful beers.
(1)Jim D.
Read some of the reviews on-line here and had high hopes, but... The service was good, we went Friday about 8:30 and they seated us right away. The beer was good. Had better and worse in my life. But the food was not very good. Let me stop right there. My food was not very good. Everyone else seemed to enjoy it, my wife even said it was one of the best burgers she's ever had. So either I'm surrounded by a bunch of fools with no taste or I ordered the wrong thing. I had the club with onion rings and it tasted like a club you would buy pre-made from a Kroger deli. The meat was packaged and the onion rings tasted like they were frozen. Guess I'll need to give it a second shot since everyone else seemed to like it. I'll just order something different
(3)Lisa W.
The brew master at this brewery has it down to a science the beer is is fantastic! I recommend the Ipa's. If you are in the mood for a very good micro beer this is your place. The food is very good as well and matches up to the beer selections very well. They usually have good food specials as well. The best dish I've had there was a special they were running it was beef briskets soaked in beer sandwich with grilled onions and swiss on an onion roll! That was insane, it was very tender and juicy and full of flavor, it went perfect with the beer. The beer cheese soup is good if you get the pretzels for dipping I've also had the bratwurst and kraut and they did a great job on that. The only problem I have is that the service hasn't always been consistent I have had a few wait staff be very good and a few waitstaff that seemed to be to busy on a non busy night and has taken over 10 minutes sometimes when we first sit down to get a server.. Otherwise this restaurant would get 5 stars!
(4)Margaret H.
Amazing food and beer! Their main menu features all sorts of burgers and sandwiches along with a few other items. My favorite is their rotating menu, there are always really delicious items on it. I have never been disappointed in my meal!
(5)amy g.
This place is really great - Super staff :-) I love me some Guin & Krystal! Darts, pool, good food, and a very nice clean facility. Really cool, personable bartenders. It's also never been crazy busy, and I like that about this place. Can comfortably play some pool and enjoy a brew. I love the funny descriptions of the beers in their menu. Haha so good! I leave off a star because I'm not totally blown away by the beers but they're still good! I think I've just spoiled myself with too many Michigan beers. I do remember this place had a tapioca one though that I thought was pretty delish! Nice long bars, easily viewed tvs, and good company :)
(4)Mike W.
Good beer, good grilled chicken sandwich, and overall a very nice place. Every Thursday they've got a new beer or two out , so there's always something new to try. Sheri mentioned lack of service for Brew ha-ha, but I'd encourage her to try it again. I was there shortly after it ended, and heard they just had much higher attendance than they anticipated. I wasn't there, I don't know, I just know I go there fairly regularly, and have never once had a problem with service. Give them another try sometime.
(5)Craig R.
Hands down my favorite brewpub in Metro Detroit. Great food, cheap prices, liquor promos, and rotating food specials every week. Pint prices are generally $3.00-4.50 which is cheaper than pretty much any other brewpub and the beer is as good or better. They have pitcher specials too, but sadly I live too far to take advantage. They tap a new cask or release a new beer(sometimes both) every Thursday. Usually the cask is a regular beer with something extra added to the cask(orange peel, chocolate syrup, etc.) Edit: Doug brews some of my favorite IPAs. I'd say Piston Pale is on par with Bell's Two Hearted which is saying a lot.
(5)Taurean V.
Fort Street Brewery is, in concept, what I like to think of when I think of a local brewery. New and different beers seem to pop up like crazy and I have tried some incredibly good ones here. Unfortunately they are fleeting and mixed with many not so good ones. Their normal line up is incredibly disappointing, with nothing I would ever crave to come back for. The food sounds pretty good on paper, especially the random specials, but has typically turned out below average. I can't say if it's preparation or just poor judgment. A lot of the times I've came it was for various "events", like a special beer release or whatever. I get the impression there is a distinct regulars clique and feel a little out of place, like I'm at a strangers birthday party with no invitation. I don't care much for the owner/brewer addressing the crowd randomly on the loudspeaker either. In the end I'll still pop in occasionally to see whats new and support a local brewery.
(3)Angela H.
This place is pretty good. Great beer, good food (could be better, but good for bar food). Good place to catch a game on the big screen. My only complaint is that they would not fill up my growler from another brewery...which is fine, so I asked to purchase one of their growlers but they were sold out. They still refused to fill up the growler, so I was left with no beer and they were left without my business. Seems odd?
(3)Topher D.
below average beer, from the boring to the tasteless to the undrinkable (root beer beer, I'm looking at you). pretty weak service as well, our waitress did not seem to want to be there. There's better places to go
(2)Gigi B.
I DIG IT!!! For one....it's not far from me! 2....its nice looking, clean, safe, TV's, pool table, good & friendly service! 3.....the foods good, a lil better then regular good bar food! That'd be Good Good bar food! Great burgers...great mussels, fish and chips...etc. 4.....I don't do beer, but those big brass barrelly things that have the beer in them are sweeeet! I enjoy a cool neighborhood spot every now and then! This is where I Go!
(4)Molly S.
I was introduced to Fort Street by a friend that lives in the area. An amazing selection of beer, and there is always something new on tap. A fun casual atmosphere with a fun and friendly staff and an interactive base of regular clientele. It is the kind of place that you want to go back to, even if you have to travel a bit. Their menu is as inventive as their beers and the food is good. I had a ham and apple Stromboli on my first visit, and have ventured the specials menu again and again. Their take on chicken and waffles is amazing... Good prices for quality food and drinks make me want to put Fort Street on my frequently visited list.
(4)Bo M.
Went for lunch... Slow service... App came out with the entrees... Not my kind of food. Did not come here for the beer, which seems to be the thing. Don't get the BBQ pulled pork. It does not taste like the BBQ puled pork in the South. I will not be back.
(1)Keith H.
Great to find a good microbrew right down the street from my work! Food is good, service is pleasant. 5-stars
(5)David K.
I agree with many other yelpers, service is spotty. It often seems to take 15 minutes to cash out. That being said last night the service was spot on. I usually go for a special, shepherds pie, gyro tempted to try the beefarino :) . Went on a limb last night and tried the patty melt. Outside of a couple of newspaper sized chunks of onion it was pretty good, done just as I ordered. Its convenient, and reasonably cheap. I will return.
(4)Mike O.
All I can say is their menu keeps me wanting more. I have the hardest time ordering here, I have my favorites but I keep wanting to order other things. They have a weekly special menu that changes on a regular basis, and its so good I have a hard time ordering off the regular menu. Fidel Castro had to kill 7 chefs before they came up with the perfect panini, and let me tell you it is perfect!! Wow. Oh and by the way on Thursday they tap a new specialty beer or two, if you are there around 8 the place really picks up.
(5)Jennifer C.
This place is a downriver gem! And only 1 of 2 microbreweries in the area. Their seasonal beer, Summer Sunsation is an awesome beer!! Creamy like a stout, but light like a heffewiezen and full of flavor. Probably one of my all time favorite microbrews by anyone ever! The interior is extremely clean and nicely decorated. The food menu is both interesting and delicious. And the weekly specials are always unique and fabulous. This place is a definite must try.
(4)Sandra B.
This place is good for what it is. They make pretty good burgers, and it is good for grabbing a couple of beers and a yummy big burger. It is definately worth a try. If you like burgers, you will like this place a lot.
(3)Steve B.
Terrible service for a large party of 11. A group of my friends decided to try out FSB for some beers and food last night. When we walked in there were a good number of open tables and no one waiting to be seated. We were prepared to wait if we needed to being we had 11 total. The hostess looked at us like we were crazy when we said we had 11. Then the manager came up to us asking if we had a reservation and that there was a final four basketball game going on. Who makes a reservation for a bar? That is ludicrous. He said the tables up front were for a party of 11 that reserved them. Then he got snippy and started to move them together for us. He then said to us that "We got lucky" by him letting us have the table and him giving us the privilege to dine there. Talk about rude. Then a few moments later we witnessed the manager talking to a few waitresses and pointing to our table while flailing his arms in the air. I can only imagine what he was saying. Then we waited for our menus and to be served for another 10-15 minutes. When we asked if our bills could be separated (as soon as we ordered drinks, not at the end of the meal) the waitress gave a sigh and said that she guessed that they could be separated. The food was decent and the beer was average. So why were we getting the "members only" attitude from this place? I have traveled around the state trying out breweries and places of establishment who serve microbrew beers and have never encountered such poor customer service. So when we finally got to leave 3 hours later the manager came over to our table clearing it off and moving them before we walked away. There never was a standing room crowd there, even when we arrived. So his big hurry to push us out was confusing to everyone. We weren't rowdy or loud. We didn't demand attention either. So when the manager told us that "we got lucky" really in turn meant that everyone else who takes the time to read this review will "get lucky" by saving their money and time and going elsewhere. Avoid FSB at all costs.
(1)Rich P.
More than just a bar. My wife and and I regularly go to Fort Street for dinner and drinks. Not only do they have excellent craft brewed beers, they have a great menu beyond your normal bar food. The menu is reasonably priced and they have weekly specials that are always awesome. We have a great meal at Fort Street with a couple of beers cheaper than Applebee's or Ruby Tuesday. There are normally 6 of Brew Master Doug's beers on tap with a new cask conditioned ale is tapped every Thursday night with great ceremony. The place is open, bright and clean. Definitely one of the best places to go downriver.
(5)Linda V.
This Brewery is celebrating their 4th year in business. The Fort Street brewhouse is run by Brewmaster Doug Beedy. Doug is a native of Sault Ste. Marie, MI and a graduate of Michigan State University. He received his brewers training at the prestigious Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago and has worked at more than a dozen breweries in Michigan and Ohio. They tap a different cask of cask conditioned ale every other Thursday at Fort Street Brewery. The food is not to die for but when you are drinking good micro brew it doesn't matter if you have bad food. Their Summer Sensation beer is to die for. If you like what you drink there you can buy a Growler full to enjoy at home. Oh yeah they have Scotch Eggs......not too many other places have them other than the Renaissance Festival.
(4)Roussos S.
this place is absolutely a great neighborhood joint. the service is great, especially krystal and dawn. the pwner pete is a class act and doug makes some interesting and tasty beer selections. the food is rather good, ive had a couple of problems here and there, but overall, if you want a cool place to hang out with a great vibe and great beer, this is the spot!
(4)Christal S.
We stopped in here for a break between the Wyandotte Art Fair and the Trenton Street Fair. I started off with the pierogi appetizers which were 4 potato pierogies with grilled kraut and onions and a side of sour cream. Pretty darn tasty!! A friend ordered the pretzel bits with cheese and those were good. The pretzels were a little crunchier than I like but not bad. I tried the beer and cheese soup which was more beer than cheese and a little different. It was kind of watery and I like mine a little thicker. I had the $4 pepperoni pizza which was really tasty - had a great sauce. My husband ordered the chicken - n - waffles so I had to taste it and it was really tasty as well. My husband (a beer snob) also ordered the beer sampler and enjoyed at least 3 of them. Service was on the slow side (we had to ask for the check twice) and it wasn't very busy so not sure why. Consensus: if we are in the area and want a beer we will stop by.
(3)Sheri H.
Went and tried this place on Saturday for the Brew Ha-Ha. The sign said "Please wait to be seated", so we waited and stood there and were totally ignored. So we went to the bar and asked where the beer tasting was. Went out to the patio and asked what their beer samples were. We were told rude manor that we should have seen the sign inside with beer samples. Got our samples and went inside and got a table. Then, we had a waitress that brought our menu and took the next beer sample order and never came back!!! So we asked another waitress to take our order. That waitress was fine. Ordered our food. I had a burger, which was good. My boyfriend and another friend of our ordered the New York Strip steak which was all fat and grissle and came with instant mashed potatoes. Not very good. We decided that after the service at this place, we would not go back.
(2)Stephen N.
I think the best part about Fort Street Brewery is the space. I know that's kind of petty but I'm getting tired of being crammed into a table and being a flick away from the neighbors. The place is really spacious with TV's and the sound volume of the patrons and the TV is just right. They probably have 20 foot ceilings and it's far from claustrophobic. I changed my mind. My favorite thing about FSB is the consistency in their food. No doubt their chef is a bit of an experimenter and it's pretty darn cool when it works. Last night, the better half had one of their specials which was vegetarian stuffed peppers. Less than $10, they served a green and red pepper megastuffed with rice and other veg filling and it was really perfect on a summer night. Delightful! The kid got the chicken wrap which was pretty mainstream fixings and I got the chicken fajita pizza, of which I was forced to share half because it was so damned yummy. No. I changed my mind again. The beer is my favorite. I'm not much of a beer snob any more and used to brew my own 50 pounds ago. (Homebrew can be around 4X the calories of your average light beer. Much more rewarding, I'll give you that. But you'll be wearing those rewards in no time.) I try to get a different brew at each visit. OK. I'll admit. It's a bit girly but I got the cider ale. With all of the new ciders on the market, these guys attempted a different twist by mixing 25% cider and the rest ale. Fabulous results. Not as crispy and light as normal 100% ciders but actually more flavorful with the body of your average pale ale. The place is modern brewpub and you get what you pay for. I'm getting thirsty writing this.....
(4)Ian K.
The beer was good, the food was decent, but the staff was rude as anything - it turns out the person who was completely obnoxious is the brewer and owner. I made a polite request and he bit my head off. Fine, I guess you don't need my money.
(1)Dale R.
This place is a great place to hang out with your friends or on a date. A very cool vibe with friendly professional staff. The food is good and the beer outstanding. This place is for sure one of the coolest places downriver and I'm proud to have it in Lincoln Park. Check it out!
(5)Michael S.
I've been here a few times and my opinion, and it's based upon personal taste, has not changed. The establishment itself is nice. Plenty of seating and nicely styled. Staff is always pleasant and efficient. I can't speak to the food, but it does look good. It's the beer that doesn't impress me. It's pretty so-so to my palate. I know tastes are different, but there it is. I do know some who love their beer, though.
(3)Vionte' S.
One of only two breweries DownRiver, the atmosphere is friendly and so is the staff! The food is really good, and the craft beers are reasonably priced. This place is definitely a gem!
(5)Melissa M.
The space itself is open and beautiful and the hostess was really nice! I just don't really like their beer. :/
(2)Lauren Y.
Cute little pub in the down town area. The following of this bar is established and they do drink specials, happy hours and sell their own, brewed locally of course. I purchased an IPA growler as a gift and can't wait to try it out. From the looks of it, it's gonna be tasty.
(4)Debi R.
My husband & I took his son here for his birthday & sat at the bar 15 min with no acknowledgement of our existence & there was only half a dozen people in there. When a group came in & sat at a table, a waitress went right over to them - we got up & left -will not go back!
(1)Sip C.
Update, since I've unequivocally become a regular. There is very good service here. There is also very bad. Luckily, the latter often doesn't last, but I can't fault people for not knowing what server they're going to get. As for everything else: still haven't had a beer here I didn't like, their rotating small batches are a rare find even in the beer Mecca that is Michigan and the food specials are usually pretty inspired when they have a head chef. They had lots of turn over on the kitchen front for awhile, but their latest chef has stayed and is great.
(5)Natalie M.
The service is spotty. Sometimes it's great, sometimes they ignore you the entire time. The beer is pretty good, but the food leaves a lot to be desired. The only thing that I can say that they have better than the rest is their french fries. Those are very good. Last time I went, I got chicken tenders and they were really hard, like a jerky almost. The time before that, I got Fish and Chips and the fish was soggy and undercooked. I also don't like that they close the kitchen at 10. So if you want to get a beer after work, you get off at 9, and want some Apps, you might as well forget it. This place is just "Okay". That's all I can say about it.
(3)Clete B.
Really nice place to watch the Lions game. Great atmosphere! Tried the appetizer sampler plate and loved the chicken especially on it. Wish I would have ordered the chicken instead of the cod. Cod breading was not great, seemed overcooked. Fries though were good. The cole slaw was a little more vinegary than what I'm accustomed to, but was still good. They brew their own beer. We had an IPA which seemed a little pricey for a pint, but was excellent. Overall great place. Will come back.
(4)Chris S.
Slow service and average food...why visit??? I've been to Fort Street Brewery a few times now, culminating with my visit at lunchtime on St. Patty's Day, and every time I've been there the service has been insanely slow that lunch time almost turns into dinner time! On this most recent visit, we were worried about it being busy for the March 17th holiday, but surprisingly, they appeared to have their average lunch crowd. Even with the small numbers, they STILL ran out of one of their specials for the day, shepherd's pie, and it was only 12 noon! Put our orders in around 12:10 and it literally took them 45 minutes to get us our food. Plus, the waitress clearly did not think this was a problem; no apologies or even acknowledgement of the long wait. Yes they have a good selection of beer, but their food and their service is subpar and really not worth the trip. Find a different microbrewery to visit.
(2)Victoria C.
Very nice atmosphere, good selection of beer. Good place to go with a larger group or just a few friends.
(4)Matthew G.
Clean, good food, good beer, friendly atmosphere, and the service is good too. Good bar.
(4)Liz W.
I have swung by a few times and I always have had a good time with inexpensive yet quality bar food and a bit of a different take on beer. I'll be honest, you have me with chicken and waffles. Beer battered smelt? Yeah It requires me to bring my dad to feast. Beer can chicken? Oh yeah now I am happy. At least treat yourself to a fabu scotch egg if you aren't that hungry or some pierogi smothered in kraut and onions. It's bar food yes but tasty bar food. Wash it down with beers like Doug's Turbo Sarsaparilla (a great beer for a lightweight like me) or a smooth as silk Corktown Red. Service has been good. It's roomy in here and overall just a comfortable place to be. It has a distinct taste and personality and I for one appreciate that. Kick back and watch a game or just sip a brew (or two).
(4)Reem F.
Food is NOT good and the owners are totally full of themselves and rude! Never will go back!!!!
(1)Brian W.
Beer samplings are good. The food is average. Asked for the taco pizza it was dry so I thought maybe some sour cream and salsa could spruce it up. When I got my bill I noticed they charged me extra for what amounted to about two tablespoons of each. This is a condiment not a side dish people.
(3)Orlando N.
FSB IS AWESOME!!! Good beer, good service, and clean taps. Yay!!! The Lincoln Lagger was tops, Jake was friendly and knowlageable, and the bar looked great. I will be back.
(5)Matt M.
GREAT BEER! A constantly changing rotation of unique beers. Cask ale and other special releases every Thursday night. Best "fan club" prices of any area brewery. The brewer is nearly always there and is happy to answer questions. They just began offering a Sunday Brunch menu too!
(5)Christopher D.
The good - Every once in a while they have a gem of a beer, and they are one of only two breweries in Downriver that I know of (the other one, in Wyandotte, isn't anything to write home about). Also every Thursday they release a small batch cask that is usually decent. I also find their food to be decent. Not great but typical pub food. The bad - Most of their beers are mediocre at best, they often only have 3-4 beers, and their 2 most available beers (Lincoln Lager and the root beer beer) are not very good. The ugly - Their service is usually pretty terrible. I'm easy going but when there are only 10 patrons and I have to walk to the other side of the bar to ask for another beer (or a glass of water) because I'm sick of waiting 10+ mins...there is an issue. Simple food orders are often screwed up, and many times I have to track down the waiter because they didn't ask if I needed a condiment or water refill. I've noticed that 2-3 waiters there are abysmal, 1-2 are actually respectable, and the rest are generally adequate but oft inattentive. Would give 2.5 stars but will round up to 3.
(3)Jennifer C.
This place is a downriver gem! And only 1 of 2 microbreweries in the area. Their seasonal beer, Summer Sunsation is an awesome beer!! Creamy like a stout, but light like a heffewiezen and full of flavor. Probably one of my all time favorite microbrews by anyone ever! The interior is extremely clean and nicely decorated. The food menu is both interesting and delicious. And the weekly specials are always unique and fabulous. This place is a definite must try.
(4)Sandra B.
This place is good for what it is. They make pretty good burgers, and it is good for grabbing a couple of beers and a yummy big burger. It is definately worth a try. If you like burgers, you will like this place a lot.
(3)Roussos S.
this place is absolutely a great neighborhood joint. the service is great, especially krystal and dawn. the pwner pete is a class act and doug makes some interesting and tasty beer selections. the food is rather good, ive had a couple of problems here and there, but overall, if you want a cool place to hang out with a great vibe and great beer, this is the spot!
(4)Christal S.
We stopped in here for a break between the Wyandotte Art Fair and the Trenton Street Fair. I started off with the pierogi appetizers which were 4 potato pierogies with grilled kraut and onions and a side of sour cream. Pretty darn tasty!! A friend ordered the pretzel bits with cheese and those were good. The pretzels were a little crunchier than I like but not bad. I tried the beer and cheese soup which was more beer than cheese and a little different. It was kind of watery and I like mine a little thicker. I had the $4 pepperoni pizza which was really tasty - had a great sauce. My husband ordered the chicken - n - waffles so I had to taste it and it was really tasty as well. My husband (a beer snob) also ordered the beer sampler and enjoyed at least 3 of them. Service was on the slow side (we had to ask for the check twice) and it wasn't very busy so not sure why. Consensus: if we are in the area and want a beer we will stop by.
(3)Sheri H.
Went and tried this place on Saturday for the Brew Ha-Ha. The sign said "Please wait to be seated", so we waited and stood there and were totally ignored. So we went to the bar and asked where the beer tasting was. Went out to the patio and asked what their beer samples were. We were told rude manor that we should have seen the sign inside with beer samples. Got our samples and went inside and got a table. Then, we had a waitress that brought our menu and took the next beer sample order and never came back!!! So we asked another waitress to take our order. That waitress was fine. Ordered our food. I had a burger, which was good. My boyfriend and another friend of our ordered the New York Strip steak which was all fat and grissle and came with instant mashed potatoes. Not very good. We decided that after the service at this place, we would not go back.
(2)Nikki C.
Both times that I've come here, I left saying "I've got to get back here more often!" The first time I came, I had a pretty good visit. Good food, good beer. This time was pretty awesome, too. I suggested going because I had a coupon from their e-newsletter. Wouldn't you know? I forgot the coupon -- I should have just shown it to the waiter on my phone. Anyway... After staring at the menu indecisively, I settled on the burger. How basic and boring of me?? Well, it was delicious anyway... I added the carmelized onions and pepper jack cheese. I keep wanting to try sweet potato fries... I've tried 3 times and each time, I end up saying ... "eh. big whoop." But what did I do? I ordered them here. They were just okay. I guess the whole sweet potato fry thing hasn't won me over. I asked for a little cup of syrup to dip them in. That contrasted with my burger and all of its juicyness. My bad. I ordered the Lincoln Lager and sampled the Sarsaparilla. The Lincoln Lager was... as they called it "for the people who don't know how to drink beer". Okay, I know how to drink beer, but the light, Lincoln Lager was familiar to me. The Sarsaparilla tasted like root beer.... then you get over it. My friend had the fish sandwich, cole slaw and tried an appetizer which was a boiled egg wrapped in sausage and rolled in breadcrumbs. Interesting. We also got the beer sampler. I highly advise this. Each little glass is enough for you to share with another. The food was as delicious as I last remembered. The service was swift and our server was cool. So cool that when he came to take our order, he said "okay, ready to rock?" hee hee. They have your typical bar trivia, Keno, a few TVs (not flat screens). DO sign up for their e-newsletter. You get a weekly newsletter from the beermaster and you get a heads up on the weekly specials, an occasional coupon and more! Friend them on facebook, also, to stay up-to-date. Cool place, not trashy, not all upscale. It's jussst right... I just have to remember to stop in more often.
(4)Ryan M.
mm i love to come here with my friends. homer simson likes to drink beer and so does ryan. food is pretty good too. I'm afraid to say anything bad in case they read it and will be mean to me next time i come in lol. not that there would be many bad things to say.
(4)Megan M.
We came for the sarsaparilla beer and sauerkraut balls, and we stayed for the extremely reasonable pricing and friendly service. Fort Street does very interesting things with beer. The "root beer beer" was well done, with a nose that was very much root beer, but the taste was happily more mellow. I was also delighted to see that they had beer cocktails, but the lagerita was bland and sweet, despite the salt rim. The Snowplow and Scotch ale were both quite good. My love affair with sauerkraut was the tipping factor in making the trip down to Lincoln Park, but the fried sauerkraut balls didn't quite live up to my imagination. They were tasty enough (what fried food isn't, really?), but too bready to consume a whole order of 8, even with four of us at the table. My vegetarian burger was OK; others at the table enthused mightily over the chicken and waffles. The atmosphere was very chill on a Sunday afternoon. There were just enough other patrons for the bar to feel friendly, but plenty of room to spread out and the pool table was open. I would definitely want to stop back by to try more unusual beer concoctions.
(3)Dan L.
I've been going to Fort Street Brewery since the day it opened almost six or seven years ago and it's still one of my favorites in Michigan! Doug, the Brew master makes some of the best IPA's I've had, actually his was the 1st IPA I ever tried. It's been great to see this place evolve over the years and how Pete and Doug have grown the business, bettered their beers, and even made the food better. I have to admit the food at first was so-so, but Doug and Pete have worked hard to make things better and it definitely shows in their ever growing menu. The Thursday night cask tapping is a thing of beauty. Where else are you going to go where every Thursday you have an opportunity to try a new beer that you 99% more than likely not have any where else, or ever again for that matter? Yea sure, some of the beers are kinda gross due to the nature of experimentation, but some of 'em turn out awesome...I guess that's part of the charm and fun of it. Anytime I meet someone from out-of-town or who's new to craft beer, Fort Street is one of the first places I'll always send 'em.
(5)Lee S.
The beers are always great, its not in the best part of Lincoln park, but parking is good. Food was tasty but nothing exciting, though they had just changed their menu when I was there last. Dessert was practically non-existant, but they did at least know how to get me a rye without a million questions.
(4)Steve B.
Terrible service for a large party of 11. A group of my friends decided to try out FSB for some beers and food last night. When we walked in there were a good number of open tables and no one waiting to be seated. We were prepared to wait if we needed to being we had 11 total. The hostess looked at us like we were crazy when we said we had 11. Then the manager came up to us asking if we had a reservation and that there was a final four basketball game going on. Who makes a reservation for a bar? That is ludicrous. He said the tables up front were for a party of 11 that reserved them. Then he got snippy and started to move them together for us. He then said to us that "We got lucky" by him letting us have the table and him giving us the privilege to dine there. Talk about rude. Then a few moments later we witnessed the manager talking to a few waitresses and pointing to our table while flailing his arms in the air. I can only imagine what he was saying. Then we waited for our menus and to be served for another 10-15 minutes. When we asked if our bills could be separated (as soon as we ordered drinks, not at the end of the meal) the waitress gave a sigh and said that she guessed that they could be separated. The food was decent and the beer was average. So why were we getting the "members only" attitude from this place? I have traveled around the state trying out breweries and places of establishment who serve microbrew beers and have never encountered such poor customer service. So when we finally got to leave 3 hours later the manager came over to our table clearing it off and moving them before we walked away. There never was a standing room crowd there, even when we arrived. So his big hurry to push us out was confusing to everyone. We weren't rowdy or loud. We didn't demand attention either. So when the manager told us that "we got lucky" really in turn meant that everyone else who takes the time to read this review will "get lucky" by saving their money and time and going elsewhere. Avoid FSB at all costs.
(1)Rich P.
More than just a bar. My wife and and I regularly go to Fort Street for dinner and drinks. Not only do they have excellent craft brewed beers, they have a great menu beyond your normal bar food. The menu is reasonably priced and they have weekly specials that are always awesome. We have a great meal at Fort Street with a couple of beers cheaper than Applebee's or Ruby Tuesday. There are normally 6 of Brew Master Doug's beers on tap with a new cask conditioned ale is tapped every Thursday night with great ceremony. The place is open, bright and clean. Definitely one of the best places to go downriver.
(5)Linda V.
This Brewery is celebrating their 4th year in business. The Fort Street brewhouse is run by Brewmaster Doug Beedy. Doug is a native of Sault Ste. Marie, MI and a graduate of Michigan State University. He received his brewers training at the prestigious Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago and has worked at more than a dozen breweries in Michigan and Ohio. They tap a different cask of cask conditioned ale every other Thursday at Fort Street Brewery. The food is not to die for but when you are drinking good micro brew it doesn't matter if you have bad food. Their Summer Sensation beer is to die for. If you like what you drink there you can buy a Growler full to enjoy at home. Oh yeah they have Scotch Eggs......not too many other places have them other than the Renaissance Festival.
(4)Kirsten T.
I really think that if you're an IPA-lover, you'll love the beer. I however, HATE bitter beers, and therefore have had only two beers at FSB that didn't make me want to send them back. Doug (the brewmaster) tries to be original and creative, and I give him major props for that. However, I feel that he throws extra hops into every batch he makes, and that's not always appropriate. Every style he puts out has a bite to it, and sometimes a little more malt would be highly appreciated. That being said, I do enjoy the food. They have a great "mini" menu, with munchies that are very tasty. Service is okay-- some of the girls seem a little less than knowledgeable about the menu items, but they are sweet and efficient.
(3)Erin W.
This is a bar where I would actually spend time. Here are some reasons why: neither a sports bar nor a dive bar has a tasteful (read: low) number of tvs it's not too loud but the space is pretty large prompt service decent food and a nice selection of craft brews (I enjoyed a couple stouts) really good happy hour prices Check it out. But don't get too rowdy.
(4)Great Lakes L.
If you like craft beer and watching sports while eating great burgers and sandwiches, then check out the Fort Street Brewery. There's plenty of room for you and your friends, and the prices are very affordable. My personal favorite off the menu is the crab cake sliders - they're out of this world.
(4)Jim D.
Read some of the reviews on-line here and had high hopes, but... The service was good, we went Friday about 8:30 and they seated us right away. The beer was good. Had better and worse in my life. But the food was not very good. Let me stop right there. My food was not very good. Everyone else seemed to enjoy it, my wife even said it was one of the best burgers she's ever had. So either I'm surrounded by a bunch of fools with no taste or I ordered the wrong thing. I had the club with onion rings and it tasted like a club you would buy pre-made from a Kroger deli. The meat was packaged and the onion rings tasted like they were frozen. Guess I'll need to give it a second shot since everyone else seemed to like it. I'll just order something different
(3)Lisa W.
The brew master at this brewery has it down to a science the beer is is fantastic! I recommend the Ipa's. If you are in the mood for a very good micro beer this is your place. The food is very good as well and matches up to the beer selections very well. They usually have good food specials as well. The best dish I've had there was a special they were running it was beef briskets soaked in beer sandwich with grilled onions and swiss on an onion roll! That was insane, it was very tender and juicy and full of flavor, it went perfect with the beer. The beer cheese soup is good if you get the pretzels for dipping I've also had the bratwurst and kraut and they did a great job on that. The only problem I have is that the service hasn't always been consistent I have had a few wait staff be very good and a few waitstaff that seemed to be to busy on a non busy night and has taken over 10 minutes sometimes when we first sit down to get a server.. Otherwise this restaurant would get 5 stars!
(4)Margaret H.
Amazing food and beer! Their main menu features all sorts of burgers and sandwiches along with a few other items. My favorite is their rotating menu, there are always really delicious items on it. I have never been disappointed in my meal!
(5)amy g.
This place is really great - Super staff :-) I love me some Guin & Krystal! Darts, pool, good food, and a very nice clean facility. Really cool, personable bartenders. It's also never been crazy busy, and I like that about this place. Can comfortably play some pool and enjoy a brew. I love the funny descriptions of the beers in their menu. Haha so good! I leave off a star because I'm not totally blown away by the beers but they're still good! I think I've just spoiled myself with too many Michigan beers. I do remember this place had a tapioca one though that I thought was pretty delish! Nice long bars, easily viewed tvs, and good company :)
(4)Mike W.
Good beer, good grilled chicken sandwich, and overall a very nice place. Every Thursday they've got a new beer or two out , so there's always something new to try. Sheri mentioned lack of service for Brew ha-ha, but I'd encourage her to try it again. I was there shortly after it ended, and heard they just had much higher attendance than they anticipated. I wasn't there, I don't know, I just know I go there fairly regularly, and have never once had a problem with service. Give them another try sometime.
(5)Kuekuatsu M.
I haven't been home in a while. I sometimes thought I would never come back, because of my job. But, the time came when, after all this time, I got to come home, I was elated. After the Telegraph Cruise, one of the stops in my whirlwind eat-drink fest was FortStreetBrewery. I walk in, and the place is enormous! I can see the equipment behind glass and wonderful pics on the walls as I 'belly up to the Bar. Deciding not to totally jump into the Cherry Bourbon (or the Bourbon Cherries) just yet, I order a Corktown Red Ale. Oh my...flavored from everywhere!!!! I have to laugh out loud, which made the bartender laugh...I am home. I had the sausages on pretzel buns with pierogi and sauerkraut. Handmade taste, Downriver Excellence! If you are looking for a place that appeals to the higher senses, a place where you can get great food, plenty of space and a great plate...check out one of the places in my hometown...and be amazed.
(5)Melissa M.
The space itself is open and beautiful and the hostess was really nice! I just don't really like their beer. :/
(2)Lauren Y.
Cute little pub in the down town area. The following of this bar is established and they do drink specials, happy hours and sell their own, brewed locally of course. I purchased an IPA growler as a gift and can't wait to try it out. From the looks of it, it's gonna be tasty.
(4)Michael S.
I've been here a few times and my opinion, and it's based upon personal taste, has not changed. The establishment itself is nice. Plenty of seating and nicely styled. Staff is always pleasant and efficient. I can't speak to the food, but it does look good. It's the beer that doesn't impress me. It's pretty so-so to my palate. I know tastes are different, but there it is. I do know some who love their beer, though.
(3)Vionte' S.
One of only two breweries DownRiver, the atmosphere is friendly and so is the staff! The food is really good, and the craft beers are reasonably priced. This place is definitely a gem!
(5)Debi R.
My husband & I took his son here for his birthday & sat at the bar 15 min with no acknowledgement of our existence & there was only half a dozen people in there. When a group came in & sat at a table, a waitress went right over to them - we got up & left -will not go back!
(1)Clete B.
Really nice place to watch the Lions game. Great atmosphere! Tried the appetizer sampler plate and loved the chicken especially on it. Wish I would have ordered the chicken instead of the cod. Cod breading was not great, seemed overcooked. Fries though were good. The cole slaw was a little more vinegary than what I'm accustomed to, but was still good. They brew their own beer. We had an IPA which seemed a little pricey for a pint, but was excellent. Overall great place. Will come back.
(4)Rodger W.
I really like the beers that Doug makes. They are very creative brews that are not simply copies of Bell's beers, like most breweries brew around here. Recently I had super hoppy IPA from a firkin that had gummy bears in the cask. Also, the imperial stout "Beernormous" is very tasty. They always seem to have a great IPA on the offer. Right now there is a brew "One Bag of Hops" that is a very nice double IPA. Its a great thing that Downriver has a good brewery. My concern is that Downriverites who love their Bud Light and Natty Ice would not support it over the long run. I wish them luck.
(4)Taurean V.
Fort Street Brewery is, in concept, what I like to think of when I think of a local brewery. New and different beers seem to pop up like crazy and I have tried some incredibly good ones here. Unfortunately they are fleeting and mixed with many not so good ones. Their normal line up is incredibly disappointing, with nothing I would ever crave to come back for. The food sounds pretty good on paper, especially the random specials, but has typically turned out below average. I can't say if it's preparation or just poor judgment. A lot of the times I've came it was for various "events", like a special beer release or whatever. I get the impression there is a distinct regulars clique and feel a little out of place, like I'm at a strangers birthday party with no invitation. I don't care much for the owner/brewer addressing the crowd randomly on the loudspeaker either. In the end I'll still pop in occasionally to see whats new and support a local brewery.
(3)Angela H.
This place is pretty good. Great beer, good food (could be better, but good for bar food). Good place to catch a game on the big screen. My only complaint is that they would not fill up my growler from another brewery...which is fine, so I asked to purchase one of their growlers but they were sold out. They still refused to fill up the growler, so I was left with no beer and they were left without my business. Seems odd?
(3)Topher D.
below average beer, from the boring to the tasteless to the undrinkable (root beer beer, I'm looking at you). pretty weak service as well, our waitress did not seem to want to be there. There's better places to go
(2)Gigi B.
I DIG IT!!! For one....it's not far from me! 2....its nice looking, clean, safe, TV's, pool table, good & friendly service! 3.....the foods good, a lil better then regular good bar food! That'd be Good Good bar food! Great burgers...great mussels, fish and chips...etc. 4.....I don't do beer, but those big brass barrelly things that have the beer in them are sweeeet! I enjoy a cool neighborhood spot every now and then! This is where I Go!
(4)Molly S.
I was introduced to Fort Street by a friend that lives in the area. An amazing selection of beer, and there is always something new on tap. A fun casual atmosphere with a fun and friendly staff and an interactive base of regular clientele. It is the kind of place that you want to go back to, even if you have to travel a bit. Their menu is as inventive as their beers and the food is good. I had a ham and apple Stromboli on my first visit, and have ventured the specials menu again and again. Their take on chicken and waffles is amazing... Good prices for quality food and drinks make me want to put Fort Street on my frequently visited list.
(4)Bo M.
Went for lunch... Slow service... App came out with the entrees... Not my kind of food. Did not come here for the beer, which seems to be the thing. Don't get the BBQ pulled pork. It does not taste like the BBQ puled pork in the South. I will not be back.
(1)Keith H.
Great to find a good microbrew right down the street from my work! Food is good, service is pleasant. 5-stars
(5)David K.
I agree with many other yelpers, service is spotty. It often seems to take 15 minutes to cash out. That being said last night the service was spot on. I usually go for a special, shepherds pie, gyro tempted to try the beefarino :) . Went on a limb last night and tried the patty melt. Outside of a couple of newspaper sized chunks of onion it was pretty good, done just as I ordered. Its convenient, and reasonably cheap. I will return.
(4)Mike O.
All I can say is their menu keeps me wanting more. I have the hardest time ordering here, I have my favorites but I keep wanting to order other things. They have a weekly special menu that changes on a regular basis, and its so good I have a hard time ordering off the regular menu. Fidel Castro had to kill 7 chefs before they came up with the perfect panini, and let me tell you it is perfect!! Wow. Oh and by the way on Thursday they tap a new specialty beer or two, if you are there around 8 the place really picks up.
(5)Matt M.
GREAT BEER! A constantly changing rotation of unique beers. Cask ale and other special releases every Thursday night. Best "fan club" prices of any area brewery. The brewer is nearly always there and is happy to answer questions. They just began offering a Sunday Brunch menu too!
(5)Hymae W.
Went here for a big group lunch at work. This place is DEAD during lunch. Their menu was pretty good for lunch and was even on the cheap side. I got the black bean burger (this should be a shocking choice if you know me). I am no pro of black bean burgers but i thought it was good. It took awhile for the food to get out but that's expected with group of 15+. I think everyone expected out boss to flip the bill but that didn't happen so we tried ot get it split up and did not succeed (which i hate). So we spent 20 mins figuring the bill out (thank god i had cash). I would like to come back to this place again after work and try there oatmeal wheat stout. I didnt have the balls to order it with my new boss their. Not sure if i am going to add this to my list of "places not to go if you only have an hour." I think i have to try going without a huge group first.
(3)Julie C.
This place has great food and an excellent rootbeer beer. Our service was good. It was pretty loud but it was perfectly appropriate. I would come back.
(4)drew k.
I have only been here one other time. It left a really good impression with me. This time a friend and i stopped by to scoop a growler and smash a pint or two. We had a chance to talk to the brewer for a few minutes and he seemed to take great pride in his work. Rightfully so. Doug brews amazing beer. I would go so far as to put them in the ranks with Kuehnen, Dragonmead and Traffic Jam as metro Detroit's best breweries.The bartender was super personable and knowledgeable about the beer and the overall state of local beers. She poured us spots of all the taps and decribed them well. The whole place is geared towards beer heads. They also have a pretty good liqour selection. They had a number of offerings on the board. The 6x6 is an interesting and complex brew. Made with 6 types of hops and 6 types of grain it offers a malty and well rounded hop flavor. The flavor profile changes nicely through the sip and the pint. The chocolate porter was an interesting flavor as well. It didn't have the thick body of most chocolate beers and still hit the bitterness of dark unsweetened chocolate. I remember the IPA being pretty good, but a little too hot for my tastes. She poured us some sort of sarsaparilla brewed beer that was fantastic as well. Everything on the beer menu was far above average and brought a smile to my face. The happy hour menu offerings looked pretty tempting too, but i was still stuffed and had to pass. I hope to come here again. Super friendly environment. tasty pints and cheap happy hour eats. A+.
(4)Marj J.
Stopped here with my mom the other day for an early dinner. The food was IMO improved from the last time I had been there. It appears that they have streamlined their menu and the offerings are more cohesive and appropriate for the beer-pub atmosphere. I had the black bean burger which was really really good. I think that they made the patty there, it had a homemade flavor and texture. My mom had the sliders which were...well sliders. The fries were really good and served piping hot. The waitress recommended a beer that was to my taste as I prefer a Belgian ale style of beer. Kudo's to the owners for filling a niche Downriver.
(4)Jacob F.
I'd really like to give Fort St five stars. I really would. The drinks are fairly priced, the beers (of which I've only had a few) are good, the atmosphere is relaxed but fun. The consistency in two areas, though, warrants only four stars... On most nights, service is great. Sitting at the bar is the best. But every so often there's a night where the service is pretty lacking. It's the exception rather than the rule, though. The food, though, is sort of hit or miss. The burgers - if cooked correctly (medium) are great... juicy and flavorful, topped with fresh tomato, lettuce and onion. But they don't always come out medium, unfortunately. I highly suggest the cuban and the monte christo, though. I've had much better luck with these two. Always satisfying. Oh and the fries are always great. They're always hot and cripsy. Overall, great place to hang all night, if you're into the casual eat and brew atmosphere and can weather the 2.5-star experience every seventh or eighth time you visit.
(4)Bruce I.
Good beer. Decent food. Lots of tv's
(3)Matteo C.
Bearded bartender ruined my experience. Should a bartender try to build a sliver or rapport with a customer? This guy was a jerk. Here's hoping the owner reads Yelp... I was going to meet a couple friends up there - but after 15 minutes of this clown. I told my friends to meet me elsewhere. A bad, unfriendly bartender that can't even ask: "How's your food/beer?" "Do you need anything?" That WILL cost you business. Probably $50-$75 worth yesterday. Too bad for me, as I like their beer and food, and prices. And until today: the atmosphere. Nice clean place, lots of TVs. I'm still going back - but if I see that #ahole with the beard, I'm walking right out...I suggest you do the same.
(4)P B.
Fort Street Brewery has disappointed me all three times I have been here. The beer is hit-and-miss, if they even have it. I say this because one time all they had was a light beer and a sarsaparilla (actually not bad, you just have to be in the right mood for it). The last time I was here I tried "The Queen", an Imperial IPA, which had less of the bitter hop flavor and fragrant hop aroma that you might expect, and more of an old sponge aroma and dirty dishrag finish. The food here is ok, in fact last time it was actually good. I'd recommend staying away from the Brewery Dip (French Dip) if you typically enjoy this sandwich. I'm by no means a French Dip connoisseur, but when the sandwich is absent of flavor I know it isn't right. Overall the Fort Street Brewery fails as a brewpub. Apparently enough people feel the same way as I do that you can walk in here at 12:30 PM on a Saturday during football season and pretty much have the place to yourself.
(2)Kevin P.
we like FORT STREET BREWERY and the people are friendly and the main bartender there, Justin (with the beard), we think is just fantastic and very efficient and always on time with drinks and checking on how our food was....also very good with doing our keno. food is very good and beers are very good also with very good mixed drinks. not sure who that was that wrote the august of 2013 review about the bearded bartender but YOU must have not had a good day PERIOD because he is an EXCELLENT bartender and VERY NICE, so perhaps next time, YOU might not come in, in a bad mood and put him down on your review. we get to go there more often now that husband's shift has changed so we are happy about that.
(4)W. John R.
I discovered this place through the Michigan Brewer's Guild and have never made such a wonderful discovery. This is my "go-to" place any time friends from out of town come to visit, and my hangout when my friends are willing to spend a few bucks. Fantastic beers, wonderfully rotating selection, excellent gourmet food, and a brewmaster (Doug) who personally greets every table and remembers your face (if not your name). This place is one of the greatest nights out you can have, whether it's a Tuesday or a Saturday.
(4)Lisa M.
Was here recently with some friends and I have to base this review on the fact they only had four beers on tap and we only got dessert, but they have many more listed on their website. I get that home brewed beers are made in smaller batches but to me a brewery is going to have multiple brews on tap at all times. Now that said, the root beer flavored beer was good. I'm not a huge beer drinker but I really liked this one. On a side note, the desert was great. We got the brownie and between three people it was more than enough! I will be back again to try more of the menu and update my review. One last note, our server acted like she would have rather been anywhere else but there and was lax in checking on us. At one point we caught her gossiping with another waitress about a table right out in the open. I get it, a table might have been bad tippers, etc. but go in the back - your attitude gets reflected in tips and if I see you have one I might be inclined to tip you less.
(3)Chris S.
To be honest, you earn at least 3 stars just for opening as a microwbrew, in a vacant market. But Fort Street Brewery strives to really impress. Their interesting concoctions are always fun to try, and their staples pretty solid. Their sarsaparilla beer is one of the most popular, and oddly tastes just like a root beer, but beer. Yeah, odd yet good. They have cask pours pretty regularly, which can be hit or miss. All of their pours are cheap, which is another shining point that Fort Street has in my book. Their hours are a bit strange, as during the week they close fairly early. The crowd is equally as interesting, as some days you can go in and there are only a few people late in the evening, and other days where it is packed. Either way, I love having a decent microbrewery a few miles from my family, making visits much easier.
(4)Craig R.
Hands down my favorite brewpub in Metro Detroit. Great food, cheap prices, liquor promos, and rotating food specials every week. Pint prices are generally $3.00-4.50 which is cheaper than pretty much any other brewpub and the beer is as good or better. They have pitcher specials too, but sadly I live too far to take advantage. They tap a new cask or release a new beer(sometimes both) every Thursday. Usually the cask is a regular beer with something extra added to the cask(orange peel, chocolate syrup, etc.) Edit: Doug brews some of my favorite IPAs. I'd say Piston Pale is on par with Bell's Two Hearted which is saying a lot.
(5)Mickie W.
Fresh brewed beer, Bar food, and lots of TV's. What more could anyone want :)
(5)Allison F.
Jake and I have visited a few more times to find that most of our favorite servers still work there and the rude ones are gone. The food was right and the drinks were good. Maybe we'll start being regulars again. I sit at the bar for the most consistent experience.
(3)John N.
I've been here 3 times and each time I left saying to myself "wow, I'll never go there again." The main problem, as I see it, is that they try to do too much and would be better off if they focused on trying to do a few things well rather than a lot of things poorly. The brewery comes out with new beers almost weekly. But the beers have a very thin quality to them and are either tasteless or disgusting (I guess I'd prefer tasteless). The service was consistently poor and the food almost inedible. The owner/ brewer also loves to get on a megaphone and go on prolonged rants about his awful beers.
(1)Natalie M.
The service is spotty. Sometimes it's great, sometimes they ignore you the entire time. The beer is pretty good, but the food leaves a lot to be desired. The only thing that I can say that they have better than the rest is their french fries. Those are very good. Last time I went, I got chicken tenders and they were really hard, like a jerky almost. The time before that, I got Fish and Chips and the fish was soggy and undercooked. I also don't like that they close the kitchen at 10. So if you want to get a beer after work, you get off at 9, and want some Apps, you might as well forget it. This place is just "Okay". That's all I can say about it.
(3)Jerod B.
Tradition! Every year we gather with some friends and eat here on our arrival. We love the beer, the food and the atmosphere. The root beer beer is outstanding, i could drink a pitcher by myself. The food was and is outstanding. Cannot wait until next year. If you are going by, stop in and eat...ohh, try the beer as well!!
(5)Jerry M.
We went here on a Friday night and they only had 4 beers on tap with more coming out the next day. The waitress mentioned they didn't think they were going to be as busy as they have been and ran out. The service was ok and the beer was pretty tasty. They had very reasonable prices for both spirits and also beer. They also had an interesting section on the menu that I didn't try but wouldn't mind going back to try for beer and liquor combo drinks. The only beer that I wasn't a big fan of was the root-beer flavored beer. It reminded me of drinking a flat root-beer. I could just shake up a can at home for the same effect. On a side note we didn't eat at the fort street brewery except for dessert. Let me tell you the brownie dessert is huge. Our table of 4 picked at it and had lots left over.
(3)Orlando N.
FSB IS AWESOME!!! Good beer, good service, and clean taps. Yay!!! The Lincoln Lagger was tops, Jake was friendly and knowlageable, and the bar looked great. I will be back.
(5)Stephen N.
I think the best part about Fort Street Brewery is the space. I know that's kind of petty but I'm getting tired of being crammed into a table and being a flick away from the neighbors. The place is really spacious with TV's and the sound volume of the patrons and the TV is just right. They probably have 20 foot ceilings and it's far from claustrophobic. I changed my mind. My favorite thing about FSB is the consistency in their food. No doubt their chef is a bit of an experimenter and it's pretty darn cool when it works. Last night, the better half had one of their specials which was vegetarian stuffed peppers. Less than $10, they served a green and red pepper megastuffed with rice and other veg filling and it was really perfect on a summer night. Delightful! The kid got the chicken wrap which was pretty mainstream fixings and I got the chicken fajita pizza, of which I was forced to share half because it was so damned yummy. No. I changed my mind again. The beer is my favorite. I'm not much of a beer snob any more and used to brew my own 50 pounds ago. (Homebrew can be around 4X the calories of your average light beer. Much more rewarding, I'll give you that. But you'll be wearing those rewards in no time.) I try to get a different brew at each visit. OK. I'll admit. It's a bit girly but I got the cider ale. With all of the new ciders on the market, these guys attempted a different twist by mixing 25% cider and the rest ale. Fabulous results. Not as crispy and light as normal 100% ciders but actually more flavorful with the body of your average pale ale. The place is modern brewpub and you get what you pay for. I'm getting thirsty writing this.....
(4)Ian K.
The beer was good, the food was decent, but the staff was rude as anything - it turns out the person who was completely obnoxious is the brewer and owner. I made a polite request and he bit my head off. Fine, I guess you don't need my money.
(1)Dale R.
This place is a great place to hang out with your friends or on a date. A very cool vibe with friendly professional staff. The food is good and the beer outstanding. This place is for sure one of the coolest places downriver and I'm proud to have it in Lincoln Park. Check it out!
(5)Sip C.
Update, since I've unequivocally become a regular. There is very good service here. There is also very bad. Luckily, the latter often doesn't last, but I can't fault people for not knowing what server they're going to get. As for everything else: still haven't had a beer here I didn't like, their rotating small batches are a rare find even in the beer Mecca that is Michigan and the food specials are usually pretty inspired when they have a head chef. They had lots of turn over on the kitchen front for awhile, but their latest chef has stayed and is great.
(5)Chris S.
Slow service and average food...why visit??? I've been to Fort Street Brewery a few times now, culminating with my visit at lunchtime on St. Patty's Day, and every time I've been there the service has been insanely slow that lunch time almost turns into dinner time! On this most recent visit, we were worried about it being busy for the March 17th holiday, but surprisingly, they appeared to have their average lunch crowd. Even with the small numbers, they STILL ran out of one of their specials for the day, shepherd's pie, and it was only 12 noon! Put our orders in around 12:10 and it literally took them 45 minutes to get us our food. Plus, the waitress clearly did not think this was a problem; no apologies or even acknowledgement of the long wait. Yes they have a good selection of beer, but their food and their service is subpar and really not worth the trip. Find a different microbrewery to visit.
(2)Victoria C.
Very nice atmosphere, good selection of beer. Good place to go with a larger group or just a few friends.
(4)Matthew G.
Clean, good food, good beer, friendly atmosphere, and the service is good too. Good bar.
(4)Liz W.
I have swung by a few times and I always have had a good time with inexpensive yet quality bar food and a bit of a different take on beer. I'll be honest, you have me with chicken and waffles. Beer battered smelt? Yeah It requires me to bring my dad to feast. Beer can chicken? Oh yeah now I am happy. At least treat yourself to a fabu scotch egg if you aren't that hungry or some pierogi smothered in kraut and onions. It's bar food yes but tasty bar food. Wash it down with beers like Doug's Turbo Sarsaparilla (a great beer for a lightweight like me) or a smooth as silk Corktown Red. Service has been good. It's roomy in here and overall just a comfortable place to be. It has a distinct taste and personality and I for one appreciate that. Kick back and watch a game or just sip a brew (or two).
(4)Reem F.
Food is NOT good and the owners are totally full of themselves and rude! Never will go back!!!!
(1)Brian W.
Beer samplings are good. The food is average. Asked for the taco pizza it was dry so I thought maybe some sour cream and salsa could spruce it up. When I got my bill I noticed they charged me extra for what amounted to about two tablespoons of each. This is a condiment not a side dish people.
(3)Christopher D.
The good - Every once in a while they have a gem of a beer, and they are one of only two breweries in Downriver that I know of (the other one, in Wyandotte, isn't anything to write home about). Also every Thursday they release a small batch cask that is usually decent. I also find their food to be decent. Not great but typical pub food. The bad - Most of their beers are mediocre at best, they often only have 3-4 beers, and their 2 most available beers (Lincoln Lager and the root beer beer) are not very good. The ugly - Their service is usually pretty terrible. I'm easy going but when there are only 10 patrons and I have to walk to the other side of the bar to ask for another beer (or a glass of water) because I'm sick of waiting 10+ mins...there is an issue. Simple food orders are often screwed up, and many times I have to track down the waiter because they didn't ask if I needed a condiment or water refill. I've noticed that 2-3 waiters there are abysmal, 1-2 are actually respectable, and the rest are generally adequate but oft inattentive. Would give 2.5 stars but will round up to 3.
(3)Gary P.
Manager was very rude to our group who asked for separate checks. We intentionally had fewer than 8 in our party- no reservation. When a couple other friends joined us, the manager informed us it would be on one bill and he refused to separate it. The waitress was very apologetic and did the best she could to accommodate the 9 credit cards and scratch notes we gave her. The manager did point us to the ATM, noting rules are rules. I have been here many times before with one or two people and did not ever experience such a mean-spirited manager like this. We were a quiet, professional group buying food and drinks like everyone else. The place wasn't even busy. 4pm crowd
(1)Vickie R.
Excellent place to be at any day of the week, but especially Thursdays. Each Thursday a new, carefully concocted keg gets tapped, and the beer will flow until the keg is empty. If you're lucky, your glass of the newly tapped beer will have a sticker at the bottom of the glass for drawings for different prizes. Doug, the brewmaster, will propose a toast as well. Don't expect any beer there to taste like the cheap and nasty stuff you can buy at the store, every beer (except for one, IMO) is an absolute treat. I won't tell you which one is the exception, you'll have to go and find out. But I guarantee you, you'll know exactly which one it is when you try it. LOL. The food is fabulous. I love the French Dip. The soft pretzel is great, so are the pierogies and sausages. The atmosphere of FSB is relaxed and fun. Everyone is having a great time. The staff is attentive, even Doug will jump in and help out as a host, or even a server, when it gets busy. That makes me enjoy FSB that much more endearing. :-)
(5)John B.
Beer is good when available. Multiple times they have only had a couple choices. Food is sub par at best. Used to be better but has gone down hill in years past. Now the icing on the cake, THE SERVICE. The service is never good. Cocky young people who just want to serve their friends and chat it up at the bar. Hey people its 2014, social media in full force. Train your waitstaff, teach them to be nice, make them learn the menu, the beers, etc. Enough is a enough we want better service.
(2)Samir N.
Aw, man! There are so many FANtastic things happening here. The beer is awesome - the Sunsation, Amber Waves of Michigan Wheat, and root beer-flavored sarsaparilla are all delicious. In fact, I am upset at all the people I have ever met from Downriver that did not tell me about this place. It is a gorgeous space and a great place to catch a Tiger's butt whoopin'. There are plenty of TVs and they play the sound. I had the thanksgiving burger (my name, not there's). With turkey, cranberry sauce, and on a pretzel bun it is as Amurrican as Ricky Bobby. It is a worthy compromise between healthy and tasty. I would not hesitate to have it again. On top of that, the prices are awesome! I wish I could watch the whole Tiger's game here without worrying how to drive home!
(5)Michael R.
Very much enjoyed our first time here. The beer was great and quite unique offering. The hummus was a huge portion and very flavorful. We split the duck sliders which were very good and who has ever had duck sliders?? Cool atmosphere and very attentive staff. Great experience!
(4)Kelli B.
I want to love this place! I don't! It really bums me out! There are times my friends mention this place and I think, "eh, why the hell not!", each time disappointed. The food isn't anything I ever think about or crave, I couldn't even tell you what's on the menu but that I never would order it again. One beer is good, Sunsational (I think that is what it is called), it is a seasonal beer. I'd consider getting a growler of that. Service isn't bad but I don't think they really enjoy being there, or know the beer, or the food. It's weird going to a business and asking questions and the servers answers are very indifferent. Almost as if they don't care or like anything they sell.
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