Carolina Beer Co is a celebrated brewery and taproom located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina. Known for its innovative craft beers and a diverse selection of brews, the company has quickly become a staple destination for beer lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
The menu at Carolina Beer Co offers much more than just beverages. It features an extensive variety of craft beers, complemented by a curated selection of food items designed to enhance the tasting experience.
Whether you’re visiting for a casual drink or a full meal, the menu caters to all preferences.
Craft Beer Selection
The core of Carolina Beer Co’s menu is its impressive lineup of in-house brewed beers. Their offerings range from traditional styles to bold, experimental brews, showcasing the creativity and expertise of their brewing team.
Below is a detailed overview of some of the flagship beers you can expect to find on their menu:
| Beer Name | Style | ABV (%) | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Blonde | Blonde Ale | 5.2 | Light malt sweetness with subtle citrus hops and a crisp finish. |
| Queen City IPA | American IPA | 6.5 | Aromas of pine and tropical fruits with a balanced bitterness. |
| Tar Heel Stout | Oatmeal Stout | 6.8 | Rich chocolate and coffee notes with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel. |
| Southern Saison | Saison | 5.9 | Fruity esters with a peppery spice finish, light and refreshing. |
| Hopvine Double IPA | Double IPA | 8.2 | Intense hop bitterness balanced by malty sweetness and citrus aromas. |
| Carolina Red Ale | Red Ale | 6.0 | Caramel malts with a smooth roasted finish and mild hop character. |
Seasonal and Limited Releases
Carolina Beer Co prides itself on creativity and often rotates seasonal and limited-edition beers. These special releases allow patrons to experience unique flavors and brewing techniques, often inspired by local ingredients or special collaborations.
“Our seasonal brews are crafted with the freshest local ingredients, reflecting the changing seasons and the spirit of North Carolina.”
Examples of recent seasonal offerings include:
- Peach Wheat Ale: A summer favorite, brewed with fresh peaches for a sweet, fruity aroma.
- Pumpkin Spice Porter: A fall release combining roasted malt flavors with cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
- Winter Warmer: A spiced ale with warming notes of cinnamon and ginger, perfect for chilly evenings.
Food Menu
Complementing their beer lineup, Carolina Beer Co offers a thoughtfully prepared food menu. The dishes are crafted to pair well with their brews, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
From sharable appetizers to hearty entrées, the menu satisfies a variety of palates.
Appetizers and Snacks are popular choices for those who want to nibble while sampling beers. These small plates are perfect for groups and encourage sharing.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Beer-Battered Pretzels | Soft pretzels served with house-made beer cheese dip. | $8 |
| BBQ Chicken Wings | Spicy and tangy wings glazed with Carolina-style BBQ sauce. | $12 |
| Fried Pickles | Crispy dill pickle slices served with ranch dipping sauce. | $7 |
| Charcuterie Board | Selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and house-made pickles. | $18 |
| Hummus Trio | Classic, roasted red pepper, and basil pesto hummus served with pita chips. | $10 |
Entrées and Main Dishes
For guests seeking a more substantial meal, the entrée menu offers a variety of flavorful options. Each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and designed to pair with Carolina Beer Co’s signature beers.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Beer Cheese Burger | Juicy beef patty topped with beer cheese, lettuce, tomato, and house sauce on a brioche bun. | $14 |
| Grilled Salmon | Fresh salmon filet with a citrus glaze, served with roasted vegetables and rice. | $18 |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich | Slow-cooked pork with Carolina BBQ sauce, coleslaw, and pickles on a toasted bun. | $13 |
| Vegetarian Stir Fry | Seasonal vegetables sautéed in a savory sauce, served over jasmine rice. | $12 |
| Mac ‘n’ Cheese | Creamy cheddar and smoked gouda baked to perfection, with optional bacon. | $11 |
Beer Pairing Recommendations
One of the standout features of the Carolina Beer Co menu is the expert pairing recommendations. The staff is well-trained in helping guests select the perfect beer to complement their food choices.
Example Pairings:
| Food Item | Recommended Beer | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Beer Cheese Burger | Queen City IPA | The hoppy bitterness cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef. |
| Grilled Salmon | Southern Saison | Light, fruity, and spicy notes complement the citrus glaze and fish flavors. |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich | Carolina Red Ale | Malty sweetness pairs perfectly with smoky and tangy BBQ sauce. |
| Vegetarian Stir Fry | Charlotte Blonde | Clean, crisp finish balances the savory vegetables. |
| Mac ‘n’ Cheese | Tar Heel Stout | Rich roasted malt notes complement creamy cheese flavors. |
“We believe that the right beer pairing can elevate a meal from good to unforgettable. Our team is always happy to guide you through the best combinations.”
Non-Alcoholic and Specialty Drinks
Carolina Beer Co also caters to guests who prefer non-alcoholic options or specialty beverages. The menu includes several creative choices beyond traditional sodas and waters.
- House-Made Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemons with a hint of mint, perfect for a refreshing break.
- Craft Sodas: Unique flavors like ginger beer, black cherry, and root beer made with natural ingredients.
- Cold Brew Coffee: Smooth and bold, served iced or hot, ideal for coffee lovers.
- Mocktail Specials: Seasonal non-alcoholic cocktails crafted with fresh juices and herbs.
Special Events and Catering
Carolina Beer Co is more than a place to eat and drink—it’s a community hub. The brewery regularly hosts special events such as beer release parties, trivia nights, and live music sessions.
Their menu is often featured during these events with exclusive brews and special dishes.
Catering Services: For private parties or corporate events, Carolina Beer Co offers catering packages that include a selection of beers and food items from the menu. These customized experiences allow guests to enjoy Carolina Beer Co’s quality offerings in any setting.
Customer Experience and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Carolina Beer Co is casual yet sophisticated, perfect for both relaxing evenings and lively gatherings. The interior design balances rustic charm with modern touches, creating an inviting space that reflects the brewery’s dedication to quality and community.
Customer reviews often highlight:
- Attentive and knowledgeable staff
- Clean, spacious taproom with comfortable seating
- Wide variety of beer styles catering to diverse tastes
- Delicious food options that complement the beers
“Visiting Carolina Beer Co is always a treat. The menu offers something for everyone, and the staff makes you feel like part of the family.”
How to Order
Guests can order directly at the taproom or use the online platform for takeout and delivery services. Carolina Beer Co also offers gift cards and merchandise for fans who want to share their love for the brand.
Tips for first-time visitors:
- Start with a flight of four small pours to sample a variety of beers.
- Ask the staff for pairing suggestions tailored to your tastes.
- Try a seasonal or limited-release beer for a unique experience.
- Don’t miss the Beer-Battered Pretzels with beer cheese dip—a customer favorite.
Conclusion
The Carolina Beer Co menu represents the best of North Carolina’s craft brewing scene, paired with thoughtfully created dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are a seasoned beer connoisseur or just beginning your craft beer journey, the menu offers something to delight your palate.
From flagship brews to limited editions, hearty entrées to shareable snacks, Carolina Beer Co delivers a memorable experience that celebrates local flavors and community spirit.
