River Rat Brewery is a celebrated craft brewery known for its exceptional beers and thoughtfully curated menu that perfectly complements its brews. Nestled along the riverbank, the brewery combines rustic charm with modern culinary flair to offer a unique dining and drinking experience.
The menu at River Rat Brewery is designed to satisfy a wide range of tastes, blending classic pub fare with innovative twists. Whether you’re visiting for a casual drink or a full meal, the menu showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients paired with the brewery’s signature beers.
Overview of the Menu
The River Rat Brewery menu is divided into several key sections: Appetizers, Main Courses, Sandwiches & Burgers, Sides, and Desserts. Each section highlights dishes that pair harmoniously with the brewery’s diverse beer selections.
The brewery also offers seasonal specials and tasting flights to enhance your experience. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are thoughtfully included to accommodate various dietary needs.
“At River Rat Brewery, every dish tells a story — combining local flavors with craft beer passion to create unforgettable moments.”
Appetizers
Start your meal with a variety of shareable appetizers that offer bold flavors and perfect textures. The appetizers are crafted to complement the brewery’s flagship ales and lagers.
| Dish | Description | Price | Recommended Beer Pairing |
|---|---|---|---|
| River Rat Pretzel Bites | Soft pretzel bites served with beer cheese dip and whole-grain mustard. | $8.95 | Honey Wheat Ale |
| Smoked Trout Dip | Locally smoked trout blended with cream cheese, served with toasted baguette slices. | $10.50 | Light Pilsner |
| Spicy Jalapeño Poppers | Jalapeños stuffed with cheddar and cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and fried. | $9.75 | IPA (India Pale Ale) |
| River Rat Nachos | Tortilla chips topped with cheddar, jalapeños, black beans, pico de gallo, and sour cream. | $11.25 | Amber Ale |
| Garlic-Parmesan Wings | Chicken wings tossed in garlic butter and parmesan cheese, served with ranch dip. | $12.50 | Porter |
Appetizer Highlights
River Rat Pretzel Bites are a crowd favorite, perfectly salty and soft, ideal for sharing over a pint. The Smoked Trout Dip showcases the brewery’s commitment to local sourcing, bringing fresh river flavors to your plate.
The Spicy Jalapeño Poppers add a kick of heat balanced by the smoothness of the cream cheese and the smoky bacon. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, the River Rat Nachos deliver bold flavors without compromising on satisfaction.
Main Courses
The main courses at River Rat Brewery emphasize hearty, satisfying meals that pair seamlessly with the brewery’s beer lineup. From classic comfort foods to elevated dishes, each entree is crafted with care.
| Dish | Description | Price | Recommended Beer Pairing |
|---|---|---|---|
| River Rat Fish & Chips | Hand-battered cod fried golden, served with fries and house-made tartar sauce. | $16.95 | Light Lager |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Plate | Slow-cooked pulled pork in smoky BBQ sauce, served with coleslaw and cornbread. | $18.50 | Brown Ale |
| Grilled Portobello Stack | Marinated portobello mushrooms layered with roasted red peppers and goat cheese. | $15.75 | Amber Ale |
| River Rat Ribeye | 12 oz. ribeye steak grilled to order, served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. | $28.00 | Stout |
| Beer-Battered Shrimp Tacos | Three tacos with beer-battered shrimp, avocado crema, and spicy slaw. | $17.95 | IPA |
Main Course Insights
The River Rat Fish & Chips is a staple that honors traditional pub cuisine but with a fresh, local twist. The fish is sustainably sourced and battered in the brewery’s own beer, creating a perfect marriage of flavors.
BBQ Pulled Pork Plate is a smoky, savory delight that captures the essence of slow-cooked southern barbecue, balanced by the crispness of coleslaw and sweetness of cornbread.
Vegetarian diners will appreciate the Grilled Portobello Stack, a dish that combines earthy mushrooms with tangy goat cheese and sweet roasted peppers for a satisfying meal.
Sandwiches & Burgers
No brewery menu would be complete without a selection of sandwiches and burgers. River Rat Brewery delivers with a range of options made from fresh-baked buns, premium meats, and creative toppings.
| Dish | Description | Price | Recommended Beer Pairing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic River Rat Burger | 8 oz. Angus beef patty with lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheddar on a brioche bun. | $14.50 | Amber Ale |
| BBQ Bacon Burger | Beef patty topped with smoked bacon, BBQ sauce, cheddar, and crispy onions. | $16.95 | Brown Ale |
| Turkey Avocado Wrap | Sliced turkey breast, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and chipotle mayo in a flour tortilla. | $13.50 | Honey Wheat Ale |
| Veggie Black Bean Burger | Black bean patty with pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, and chipotle aioli. | $14.00 | IPA |
| Beer-Braised Brisket Sandwich | Slow-braised brisket in stout gravy on a toasted hoagie roll with pickled onions. | $17.25 | Stout |
Classic River Rat Burger is a hearty, juicy burger that serves as a perfect base for any toppings or sides. The BBQ Bacon Burger amps up the flavor with smoky bacon and crispy onions, offering a sweet and savory experience.
For those seeking a lighter option, the Turkey Avocado Wrap provides fresh, creamy avocado with lean turkey breast, ideal for a satisfying yet healthy meal. The Veggie Black Bean Burger delivers bold southwestern flavors and a spicy kick, making it a favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Sides
Sides at River Rat Brewery are designed to complement the main dishes and are perfect for sharing or making your meal more filling. Many sides also incorporate house-made sauces or fresh herbs to elevate familiar favorites.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hand-Cut Fries | Crispy fries seasoned with sea salt and fresh herbs. | $4.50 |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Served with a side of chipotle aioli. | $5.25 |
| Coleslaw | Creamy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. | $3.95 |
| Seasonal Vegetables | Steamed fresh vegetables tossed with lemon butter. | $5.50 |
| Onion Rings | Beer-battered onion rings served with ranch dipping sauce. | $6.00 |
House-made fries and onion rings offer the perfect crispy indulgence, while the seasonal vegetables provide a fresh and light counterpart for heavier mains. The Sweet Potato Fries with chipotle aioli are especially popular for their balance of sweetness and smoky heat.
Desserts
Finish your meal with one of River Rat Brewery’s decadent desserts, crafted to deliver sweet satisfaction without overpowering your palate. Many desserts incorporate hints of the brewery’s famous beers, adding unique flavor profiles.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Stout Cake | Rich chocolate cake infused with stout, layered with cream cheese frosting. | $7.50 |
| Apple Crisp | Warm cinnamon apples topped with oat crumble and vanilla ice cream. | $6.95 |
| River Rat Cheesecake | Classic New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust. | $7.00 |
| Seasonal Sorbet | Refreshing fruit sorbet made in-house, changes with the seasons. | $5.50 |
Chocolate Stout Cake is a must-try for chocolate and beer lovers alike, perfectly marrying the bitterness of stout with sweet, velvety frosting. The Apple Crisp offers comforting autumnal flavors year-round, and the Seasonal Sorbet provides a light, refreshing finish to any meal.
Beer Pairings and Tasting Flights
River Rat Brewery is renowned for its handcrafted beers, and the menu is designed to enhance the drinking experience with carefully recommended pairings. Each dish suggests a beer style that complements or contrasts flavors to elevate both food and beverage.
Example of Beer Pairing Philosophy: The bitterness and hoppy notes of an IPA cut through rich, fatty dishes like BBQ Pulled Pork, while lighter ales enhance delicate flavors such as smoked trout or fish and chips.
In addition to individual pairings, River Rat Brewery offers tasting flights that allow guests to sample multiple beers in smaller servings. Tasting flights typically include four to six beers, ranging from light lagers to robust stouts.
| Tasting Flight | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Flight | A selection of the brewery’s flagship beers, perfect for first-time visitors. | $12.00 |
| Seasonal Flight | Rotating lineup of seasonal and limited-release brews. | $15.00 |
| IPA Lover’s Flight | Four distinct IPAs showcasing different hop varieties and brewing techniques. | $14.00 |
Dietary Options and Customizations
River Rat Brewery takes pride in accommodating diverse dietary needs. The menu clearly marks vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, and the kitchen staff is happy to make reasonable adjustments upon request.
Gluten-free buns, dairy-free sauces, and vegetarian substitutes are available for many sandwiches and main dishes. This commitment ensures all guests can indulge without compromise.
“We believe great food and great beer should be accessible to everyone, no matter your dietary preferences.”
Conclusion
The River Rat Brewery Menu is a celebration of local ingredients, creative flavor combinations, and expertly crafted beers. Its diverse offerings cater to casual drinkers, food enthusiasts, and families alike.
From appetizers that spark your appetite to desserts that satisfy your sweet tooth, each dish is thoughtfully paired with the brewery’s beers to deliver a harmonious dining experience. Whether you’re visiting for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, River Rat Brewery’s menu promises quality, flavor, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Next time you find yourself by the river, be sure to explore River Rat Brewery’s menu — a true testament to craft beer culture and culinary excellence.
