Ohio Brewing Impresses

A little late, but finally made it to the new Ohio Brewing location in the Milo-Grogan area. Having been to their taproom in Cuyahoga Falls, I expected more than a hole-in-the-wall taproom for their Columbus location, but I was absolutely blow away by this venue. The first pleasant surprise was their parking lot. When you get in the Short North and Italian Village areas, finding free parking is always a pain. Okay, this is next door in Milo-Grogan, but the spacious parking lot (at least 100 spots) was sweet. (Hoof Hearted is less than ½ mile away and Seventh Son less than ¾ mile.) Approaching the taproom revealed a large wrap-around patio with seating for 100+. Then through the entry into the former 37,000 sf warehouse revealed a massive taproom, easily one of the largest in central-Ohio. Brightly lit with natural light and with the high ceilings, it was almost like entering a cathedral. But the coup de gras is the décor. The walls on all sides are an amazing homage to the State of Ohio. One area recognizes the many pro teams in Ohio, while another honors many of the universities. Of course, each of Ohio’s native-born United States Presidents get a nod. Then there are another 100-150 portraits of other ‘Ohioans” ranging from entertainers, athletes, astronauts to politicians, business and military leaders. Most are Ohio-born, but some made their name here. (There is one questionable inclusion. I’m not certain most will appreciate having Charles Woodson honored here?) Finally, the murals which are a medley of Ohio landmarks and symbols are works of art. And, of course, be certain to look upwards and take note of the scarlet and gray biplane piloted by Brutus Buckeye.

The bar and many of the tables are made with live-edge wood and seating capacity is well over 150. All the house beers are made on-site with their 30-bbl brewing system. A dozen flat-screened TV’s adorn the walls for your favorite sports viewing.

The tap list covers the gamete from Mexican lager, Pilsner, and Wit to IPA, Nitro Stout, and a Fruited Sour. There was also a hard-to-find Altbier on tap. Wines and cocktails are available, as well as a large selection of Bourbon, Scotch, Vodka, Gin, Tequila, and Rum. The food menu is impressive in size and scope with loads of appetizers, a number of salad options, a dozen burger and sandwich options, plus flatbreads, pizzas, and desserts. Brunch is available on Saturday and Sunday.

Ohio Brewing is located at 421 E. 2nd Avenue and opens at 4 Mon-Fri and 10 AM Sat-Sun. Cans and Crowlers are available to go.