James McKew

Perhaps…just perhaps, Grand Junction is not the beer making capital of Colorado… I’m willing to consider the idea. In 2014 there were 235 breweries in Colorado, third highest per capita in the country. But what makes Grand Junction special isn’t the quantity of beer produced; it’s the quality.

One of the best is the Edgewater Brewery, located near the confluence of the Gunnison River and the Colorado River. The building includes an indoor dining area, an outdoor patio, large grassy open space and direct access to a bike path the runs along the river front. The staff is friendly and professional. The atmosphere is relaxed and unassuming; you can bring your kids, parents and friends, everyone will have a good time. If you’re looking for a chain restaurant, there is plenty near the shopping mall, but this is worth making the extra drive.

Let’s talk about something really important…beer, and not just any beer. Broken Oar IPA, a hearty and refreshing English malt with 5.8% ABV and a nice citrus taste, without being too hoppy. This magic potion has become my go-to beer for Friday nights, I can’t wait for that first glass to hit the table. Let me be clear here; I like drinking beer from the tap, beer in bottles is acceptable on a camping trip or in the backyard with a spatula in my hand. Beer in an aluminum can is what I refer to as an emergency ration; best served during a flash flood, tornado or wildfire. I want my beer to travel from a magic beer tank behind the wall, through a plastic hose and into my glass. Drinking beer straight from the source verses a bottle is something close to beating Ponce de León to the Fountain of Youth, I don’t know what that means exactly but I said it…let’s just try to move on.

So last Friday night Katie and I go to The Edgewater, sit at one of the high tables and have a beer. She drinks the Kannah Creek Amber Ale and I have the Broken Oar, it makes my teeth go numb…does that say anything? It’s a game changer or an attitude adjustment, whichever you prefer, but suffice to say; that by the time our food arrives I’m well aware of my need for something to balance out the alcohol. I always tell myself before leaving the house that I’m going to be good and have a salad, but to be honest; I’m not convinced that salad and beer were ever meant to go together. Beer is supposed to be served with meat and bread…right? Nachos are the exemption. What I’ve discovered is that the Chili Verde Burger with green chilies, black beans and spicy jack cheese satisfies my Friday night cravings.

Ratings:

The Edgewater Brewery

Broken Oar IPA ***

Lands End Amber Ale ***

Island Mesa Blonde Ale ***

Location ***

Food ***

Cost $$ average