Olde Burnside Brewing Company


The Stats

Location: East Hartford, CT

History: Founded in 2000, Olde Burnside prides themselves on "Using only the choicest ingredients coupled with [their] own unique pure water source located on [their] property."

Food Service: No (BYOF)

Website: http://oldeburnsidebrewing.com


The Scenario

Odd spot. Pulling up we really weren't sure what to expect and quite frankly, a little scared. The signs directing traffic to the back of the facility were small at best. The ground's history as an ice company is apparent with old ice trucks and ice chests visible in the parking lot. The space is completely outdoors under a tent which begged the question "what do they do in the winter?" When we approached these "brewtancial gardens" there were only two women seated at the bar (which only could accommodate two people.) The bartender was accompanied by an old jukebox full of oldies music in a makeshift garage which was next to the bathrooms, a sole port-a-pottie. We were promptly told of the only option for consumption - $10 for open samples of any of their 6 beers on tap. The samples are served in clear plastic cups which are intended to be enjoyed at any of the mismatched wooden chairs and tables under the tent. As we sipped on our brews, a few other parties joined us but it never became crowded on the Saturday afternoon we were there.There was no real attempt for the bartender to engage with the guests, just stood behind the bar conversing with those seated there.


The Ratings

Grapefruit Hopt Scot IPA
D: 2/5 - Didn't taste like grapefruit. Not sure why I ordered the IPA. I'll learn someday.
K: 2.5/5 - A fine IPA which I am usually not a fan of anyway, did not taste like grapefruit at all to me.

Penny Weiz Ale
D: Nope.
K:3.5/5 - A decent Witbeir. Had a funky taste at the end, may be the "tea-like flavor" they describe it as having

Ten Penny Scottish Ale
D: Nope.
K: 2/5 - Their flagship ale. Honestly not very impressed. Just okay.

Weiss Beyond Our Years
D: 3/5 - As a fan of sour beers, I liked it! I ended up swapping the IPA for this one that Kyle ordered. Thanks :)
K: 2.5/5 - A decent sour beer. I have definitely had better.


Final Thoughts

D: 2/5 - Would I go back? No, probably not. The beer was just okay and the atmosphere was laid back which I can appreciate but just not much to look at. I think I would've had a better time with a livelier crowd or some music. 

K: 2/5 - Agreeing with Deanna, probably wouldn't go back. Top Shelf is a better option for me within a few miles. Being outdoors was nice on a great day and the $10 open samples are a great option if you enjoy the beers. Unfortunately, since I wasn't crazy about any of them, it proved meaningless. They do offer live music some days, but after my visit, unless it was The Beatles, not very interested.


The "Brewtanical Gardens"



Check them out on social media!


facebook.com/oldeburnsidebrewing

 @oldeburnsidebrewery



@oldburnsidebrew

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