30 years ago, locally-made craft beer was a niche market, and sometimes even a hobby for beer drinkers who wanted something different from the mass-produced domestic and imported beers. Fast-forward to today, when you can’t walk 10 blocks in any modern city without finding a microbrewery that produces delicious seasonal and signature beers. However, that’s not a bad thing for the average beer drinker, especially if you live in Norfolk. With several breweries throughout the town, you’ll have your fill of interesting and thirst-quenching libations. Here are just a few of the best.
1. The Bold Mariner
Located in an unassuming spot just northwest of downtown Norfolk, the Bold Mariner is a locally-owned company that takes microbrewing to another level. Open Wednesday through Sunday, the company offers six distinct flavors that are sure to please your palate, no matter what your beer of choice. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, go with their Red Maiden Irish Red, or if you want something a bit more hoppy, opt for the Dog Zebra IPA or the Liberty Risk IPA. No matter what you choose, you’ll get a refreshing beer that will leave you coming back for more. They don’t serve food here, so make sure you chow down before you head over to their location at 2409 Bowdens Ferry Road.
2. Smartmouth Brewing Company
If you’re as much into sampling beer as you are into the production process, make sure to check out the Smartmouth Brewing Company at 1309 Raleigh Avenue. Here they offer free tours of their facility as well as tasting rooms to sample the latest batches. What sets Smartmouth apart is that their owner, Porter Hardy, isn’t a brewer by trade. In fact, he was in corporate law before the calling to brew took over his life. Since then, the brewery’s production has taken off, and today they brew over 250 barrels per month. With 48 beers produced in that life span and 10 cycled through the tap-room, Smartmouth Brewing Company is a dream for the beer lover. If a pint isn’t enough to quell your thirst, you can get a growler or keg to take home. There’s no food, but ordering in is approved.
3. O’Connor Brewing Company
With a name like O’Connor, you know the beers here have to be good, or at least an homage to the drink of Ireland. The best bet here is to visit the tap room, which offers draft beers, live music, and food trucks right outside. They even sponsor a free local music festival to set the mood for the evening. O’Connor’s offers six beers that are available year-round, as well as five series of beers that come out throughout the year. All in all, you have 29 beers to sample from January to December. You can find this Norfolk institution at 211 West 24th Street.
With these three breweries leading the charge, Norfolk is no slouch when it comes to the craft brewing game. So hit up one of these microbreweries when you get the chance. Just remember to bring a designated driver with you.
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