The Broad Ripple Brew Pub: Look into Indiana’s Oldest Brewery

Without a doubt, the craft brewing industry is booming throughout Indiana. According to the Indianapolis Star, Indiana’s craft brewing industry saw a 10.4 percent growth in 2016. Hopping from brewery to brewery, enjoying beer and artisanal food certainly has become a favorite weekend pastime. But where did this all begin?

To answer this, one need look no further than the heart of Broad Ripple Village. Nestled amongst various boutiques, and the bustling Monon Trail, lies Indiana’s oldest operating brewery - The Broad Ripple Brewpub. Established in 1990 by Englishman John Hill and his Hoosier wife, Nancy – the Brewpub is the birthplace of Indiana’s craft beer.

Any of the regulars will gladly tell you about the superb quality of both beer and service at the Brewpub. Here, one is made to feel like family. The warm interior, with its detailed and dark woodwork, niche displays of local art, and cozy fire place truly make one feel like they have stumbled into an authentic English pub – true to the owner’s roots. The Brewpub provides a family friendly atmosphere, and often plays host to live music outside on their lovely patio. To quote Dani Nelson – a bartender and longstanding employee of the Brewpub – “We (The Brewpub) focus on keeping things local. We get as much local produce as we can, our sodas we serve are locally made, and we also make an effort to donate gift cards and the like to many local charities.” Last, but certainly not least, the patio is dog friendly.

Now for the beer. The Brewpub offers a wonderful selection of handcrafted beers and ales – ranging from Imperial stouts ($4.00 pints on Mondays) to the ever popular I.P.A. One may choose from twelve beer selections on tap or peruse the O.P.B (other people’s beer) selection – but why would you do that? When asked what makes The Brewpub’s beer so special the brewer – Johnathan Mullens – was happy to say, “We want everything about the beer to be balanced. We make sure that there’s never too much of anything. If we are making a beer, we want to stick to its style. We like to stick to tradition, which is something you don’t find very much anymore.” Lastly, if you are not a beer drinker there is a wonderful selection of wines and cocktails which are sure to tickle your fancy. But do try the beer, it’s good for you.

Now, the Brewpub would not be true to their name if they did not serve food. From pasta to burgers, the Brewpub will not disappoint even the pickiest of pallets. More exciting still is their large selection of vegan, vegetarian, as well as gluten free options!

In order to apricate Indiana’s growing craft beer industry, one should certainly begin at the beginning. Head to the Broad Ripple Brewpub and enjoy the sense of community!

Link to Indy Star Article: https://www.indystar.com/story/money/2017/06/27/indiana-keeps-adding-breweries-craft-beer-growth-nears-fifth-inning/404676001/

Check out this Link to The Broad Ripple Brewpub’s Website: http://www.broadripplebrewpub....