Americans reach for a beer at almost every get-together. Brewers started mass-producing this highly-coveted beverage in 1865. You’ll find it in the cooler at picnics, the lake, and even at the football game, resting on a tailgate. If you’re on the lookout for a true craft beer brewery with fantastic service and great ale, check out some of the best brews around with our list of the top three highly rated breweries in Akron, Ohio.
R.Shea Brewing
Looking for an open taproom with an affordable menu and impeccable service? Then R.Shea Brewing is the place for you. Located at 1662 Merriman Road, R.Shea rated an impressive 4.5 stars on Yelp and had stellar reviews. They’re heavily involved in their community outside the brewery, hosting events that benefit the Arthritis Foundation and others.
Not only is R.Shea’s affordable, with five beers for just $10 and a $5 Sandwich of the Week, everything is tasty and quick to the table. R. Shea’s Chipotle and Mango Beer is said to taste magical with full-bodied flavor and spicy citrus tones. Their Peppermint Beer has a delightful minty aftertaste.
Hoppin’ Frog Brewery
Grab your friends and stop at the Hoppin’ Frog Brewery. From stouts to IPAs to Nitros, everyone can find a beer to love at this great little craft brewery. Don’t be fooled by the industrial exterior – come on inside and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere. Led by brewmaster Fred Karm, some of the best beverages on tap are the Peanut Butter Chocolate Coffee Porter and the BORIS Reserve. The Hoppin’ Frog is highly rated on ratebeer.com and earned an extraordinary four stars on Yelp.
The outdoor patio offers a quiet respite where you can still hear the live band. The tasting room is serving up adventurous, seasonal dishes. One patron mentioned she’d had the best beer cheese ever at the Frog. Visit the brewery every Wednesday and meet the brewers from 5 to 7 p.m. Ask questions and sample some tasty beer. The Hoppin’ Frog lives at 1680 East Waterloo Road.
The Brew Kettle
Ever thought of brewing your own mug of ale? Then the Brew Kettle is the place to be. Bring along a couple of friends, select a recipe, brew your beer, and then come back in a few weeks for bottling – it’s that easy. The brew masters at the Brew Kettle offer a variety of seasonal, specialty, and limited edition beers as well as a hearty pub-style menu. Visit the Brew Kettle at 8377 Pearl Road in Strongsville, OH, about 40 minutes north of Akron.
More than 300 guests rated the Brew Kettle four out of five stars on Yelp for their Five-Beer Sampler. Big Woody is one of the top favorite brews, and so is their award-winning White Rajah on tap.
Local microbreweries are popping up all over the country and Akron is a hot spot for some of the best. Give our top three a chance to show you their best brews. Experiment and make a brew tour your new favorite tradition.
“Hopping Frog BORIS The Crusher, Christer Edvarsten, (CC BY 2.0)
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