The new Craft Burgers & Brews is already turning heads in Chautauqua County. The name is fairly self-explanatory but anyone who goes there for a burger will quickly find that there is so much more to this exciting new bar/restaurant.
The Brews
They feature fourteen thoughtfully selected beers on tap and although the lineup is frequently rotated, there is something for every beer-lover. The range is from mouth-puckering sour beers like Sloop Brewing’s Sauer Peach to hearty brews such as Southern Tier Brewing Company’s Choklat (an imperial stout that is brewed with rich Chocolate, which packs a wallop at 10% ABV).
I was pleasantly surprised to see a wealth of excellent local brews during my visit including Buffalo’s popular new brewery, 12 Gates. I had a pint of Bleeding Heart Red Rye, one of their flagship beers. The rye ale was refreshingly malt-forward with hops that added depth to the beer’s complex character. The unique flavor of the rye malt was distinguishable without being overpowering. From the flavor of this offering, I can understand why 12 Gates Brewing Company has garnered so much attention.
The Starters
The appetizers seemed inventive and exciting. I have heard that their Tater Tot app, which features a gourmet version of the grade school lunchroom staple along with homemade pulled pork and tangy BBQ sauce and finished with scallions and fresh jalapenos, is already a local favorite. In fact, there are so many mouth-watering apps to choose from that one may be tempted to make a meal out of appetizers. One diner who sampled several including the inventive rendition of nachos and Crab & Avocado Tempura in addition to the Tots reported that it was all “AWESOME!”
The Burgers
Those who head in for the hand-formed certified Angus burgers are in for a real treat. First, the burgers are made from a sirloin brisket blend and cooked to order. So, if you order a burger medium-rare, you will get what you asked for, not a patty that is nearly well-done. I tried the Asian which is served with an expertly grilled pineapple ring and then generously dressed with lettuce, tomato, grilled onion, teriyaki, and a delightfully tangy ginger mayo.
Chef Ryan Thayer reflects with pride on his unique creations, speaking of the burgers in general, he says: “It’s honestly the best burger you’re going to find here or anywhere nearby.”
The Real Deal
Other members of my group enjoyed burgers inspired by cuisine from around the globe: Mexican, Argentinian, Italian, etc. Speaking of Italian, there is also a selection of interesting pastas as well as personal pizzas made with focaccia dough.
So there should be something for everyone in your group, even if burgers are not their thing. If you are looking for casual dining with a sophisticated flair, look no further. As one diner gushed: “This was the perfect place! The food was excellent, reasonably priced, and the service was amazing!”
So as the people in Lakewood are starting to realize, Craft Burgers & Brews is “burger heaven.” But the truth is that for beer lovers and those who just like to go out and have a good time, it is so much more.
This post was sponsored by Craft Burgers and Brews
Loren Mayshark is the award-winning author of Death: An Exploration and Academic Betrayal. For more, you can visit his website lorenmayshark.com and you can keep up with him on Twitter at @LorenMayshark. Sign up for his newsletter and receive regular updates and a free gift.
