Three Floyds

Truth be told I much prefer wine to beer. But I will admit I did enjoy the beer I drank while in Warsaw, Budapest, and Prague this summer. They were so complex, yet smooth and flavorful. When I asked my travel agent what she enjoyed most about those cities her response, somewhat surprisingly, was the beer. 

Thankfully many micro/artisan breweries have sprung up all over the United States. Some in unexpected places like Three Floyds Brewing Company in Munster, Indiana. Each summer I have the privilege of spending a fun-filled weekend with dear friends from college. We begin in Northwestern Indiana at Karen’s home. She is a hostess extraordinaire. 

We kick off the weekend with lunch at a local eatery. Last year Karen recommended Three Floyds Brew Pub for its delicious food, as well as, tasty beer. So impressed by our experience I asked to return this summer. Not being a beer aficionado I did not realize the cult following Three Floyds Brewing Company enjoys with people flocking to it from around the globe to snatch up their imaginative brews. 

Part biker-bar, part eatery, Three Floyds Brewing Company is a study in contrasts and a great place to people-watch. Located in a nondescript industrial park, you would not know there was anything special about the place if not for the packed parking lot over-flowing with cars whose license plates hail from all corners of the United States. Or the fact that regardless of the time of day there is always a wait for a table. Men in business suits, bikers, and ladies out to lunch all wait patiently for their turn to dine. 

Each of their beers has its own personality, which you can read about while nibbling on their addictive popcorn from the 'snacks' part of the menu. But equally impressive is the creative food that compliments their different beers. You wouldn't necessarily expect a place so devoted to making great beer to care that much about the food they serve, but the skilled kitchen staff certainly does. Crafting outstanding beer and food is a religion at Three Floyds.

One of the benefits of dining with my college friends is we enjoy sharing, so we can sample a variety of tastes. The food is hearty, yet well-thought out to hold up to the robust brews. An added bonus is the kitchen is supported by their own organic herb and vegetable garden.

If you find yourself in Midwestern American between Indianapolis and Chicago do take the time to visit Three Floyds Brewing Company. You may have to wait a bit, but it will be worth it. You will be glad you made the detour.