Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Upland Brewery has established itself as much more than a destination for craft beer aficionados. Its inviting atmosphere, commitment to local sourcing, and inventive culinary team have transformed its menu into a culinary adventure that reflects the vibrant spirit of Bloomington, Indiana, and beyond.
The Upland Brewery menu is not just a collection of dishes and brews; it’s a carefully curated experience where each plate and pint tells a story, resonates with a sense of community, and celebrates the bounty of regional produce.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite, a traveler seeking authentic flavors, or a devoted beer lover on the hunt for the perfect pairing, you’ll find that Upland’s offerings strike a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation.
From hearty starters and imaginative salads to expertly crafted mains and decadent desserts, every aspect of the menu is designed to complement the brewery’s award-winning beers. The culinary team takes pride in building seasonal dishes that not only highlight the freshest ingredients but also underscore the ethos of sustainability and creativity.
Diners can expect a symphony of flavors that range from familiar comfort fare to adventurous bites, each thoughtfully matched with Upland’s diverse brews. The result is a menu that invites exploration, promises satisfaction, and makes every visit feel like a special occasion.
Signature Starters and Appetizers
The appetizer selection at Upland Brewery offers more than a mere prelude to the main event. These dishes are crafted with care, emphasizing bold flavors and shareable fun.
From locally sourced cheeses to inventive takes on pub classics, the starters set the tone for a memorable dining experience.
Guests are greeted with a range of options that cater to a variety of palates. The culinary team’s attention to detail ensures that each plate is both visually appealing and deeply satisfying, making it tempting to order several to share among friends.
Ingredients are thoughtfully chosen, often highlighting regional producers and artisans.
Among the most popular starters are the Soft Pretzel Bites served with beer cheese, the Buffalo Cauliflower, and the chef’s rotating seasonal soup. Each option is designed to pair seamlessly with Upland’s house beers, creating a synergy between kitchen and brewery.
- Soft Pretzel Bites: Warm, chewy, and served with a tangy beer cheese that uses Upland’s own brews.
- Buffalo Cauliflower: Crispy florets tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, perfect for vegetarians and spice lovers alike.
- Beer Cheese Dip: Creamy, savory, and made with a blend of local cheeses and Upland Wheat Ale.
- Charcuterie Board: A rotating selection of meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, and house-made accompaniments.
“Our goal is to create a menu where every bite is as memorable as every sip. Starters should ignite your curiosity and set the stage for what’s to come.” – Upland Brewery Executive Chef
Craft Beer and Beverage Pairings
No visit to Upland Brewery is complete without exploring their extensive selection of craft beers. The brewery is renowned for its range, from classic lagers to experimental sours.
Each beverage is carefully crafted, with many beers available exclusively at the brewpub locations.
The menu offers pairing suggestions, helping diners make informed choices that enhance both the food and the drink. Staff are knowledgeable and eager to recommend combinations that bring out the best in each dish.
For those less familiar with craft beer, flights offer an excellent introduction to Upland’s variety.
Standout beverages include the Dragonfly IPA, Wheat Ale, and the innovative Champagne Velvet. Seasonal releases often highlight unique flavor profiles, such as tart fruit sours or robust barrel-aged stouts, offering something new with every visit.
| Beer | Style | Recommended Pairing |
| Dragonfly IPA | India Pale Ale | Buffalo Cauliflower, Spicy Chicken Sandwich |
| Wheat Ale | American Wheat | Soft Pretzel Bites, Grilled Chicken Salad |
| Champagne Velvet | Pilsener | Charcuterie Board, Fish & Chips |
| Bad Elmer’s Porter | Porter | Bourbon Burger, Chocolate Desserts |
For those seeking alternatives, the beverage menu also features local ciders, kombucha, and non-alcoholic sodas. Each is chosen to provide a refreshing complement to the diverse flavors found throughout the menu.
Expert Pairing Advice
The Upland staff encourages guests to ask questions and experiment with pairings. The right beer can elevate the flavors of a dish, creating a memorable dining experience.
Don’t hesitate to seek recommendations or try something outside your usual comfort zone.
Hearty Main Courses
The main course offerings at Upland Brewery reflect a commitment to both comfort and creativity. The culinary team draws inspiration from classic American fare, global influences, and the bounty of local farms.
Each dish is crafted to satisfy and delight, with portion sizes that ensure even the heartiest appetites are content.
The menu features a balanced mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options. Signature dishes like the Bison Burger and Fish & Chips are perennial favorites, while seasonal specials introduce new flavors and ingredients throughout the year.
Guests appreciate the kitchen’s willingness to accommodate dietary preferences, offering gluten-free buns, plant-based proteins, and customizable toppings. The focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite, making Upland Brewery a standout for both casual meals and special occasions.
- Bison Burger: Locally sourced bison, topped with smoked cheddar, caramelized onions, and house-made aioli.
- Fish & Chips: Beer-battered whitefish served with crispy fries and tangy tartar sauce.
- Vegetarian Grain Bowl: A vibrant medley of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and herbed vinaigrette.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Juicy grilled chicken breast, arugula, tomato, and basil pesto on a toasted bun.
“We believe that every main course should tell a story—about the region, the season, and the people who grow and prepare our food.” – Upland Brewery Kitchen Team
Fresh Salads and Lighter Fare
While Upland Brewery is known for its hearty mains, the menu also shines with a selection of fresh salads and lighter options. These dishes celebrate the region’s best produce and offer vibrant, nutrient-rich choices for diners seeking balance.
Salads are far from an afterthought here. Each is constructed with layers of flavor and texture, combining greens, grains, fruits, and proteins in imaginative ways.
Dressings are made in-house, using ingredients like local honey, fresh herbs, and Upland beer reductions.
Lighter fare options extend beyond salads, with offerings like house-made soups and small plates that make for ideal accompaniments or standalone meals. The result is a menu that accommodates diverse tastes and dietary needs without sacrificing satisfaction.
- Harvest Salad: Mixed greens, roasted root vegetables, goat cheese, and spiced pecans, dressed in a maple vinaigrette.
- Grilled Chicken Caesar: Crisp romaine, grilled chicken, shaved parmesan, and garlic croutons with a classic Caesar dressing.
- Seasonal Soup: Rotating selections such as butternut squash bisque or tomato basil, always made from scratch.
Why Choose Upland’s Lighter Fare?
For those seeking a meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying, Upland’s lighter options deliver. The attention to freshness and flavor ensures that even the simplest salad is elevated to something memorable.
Choosing lighter fare doesn’t mean compromising on taste or creativity. Upland’s culinary team proves that healthy choices can be both exciting and indulgent.
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Upland Brewery stands out for its thoughtful inclusion of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These menu items go beyond simple substitutions, offering creative, satisfying meals that appeal to everyone at the table.
The kitchen’s approach focuses on whole foods, robust flavors, and inventive combinations. Dishes are designed to be enjoyed by all, regardless of dietary preference, making Upland Brewery a welcoming spot for plant-based diners.
Favorites like the Vegan Black Bean Burger and Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos showcase the culinary team’s passion for plant-forward cuisine. Each item is crafted to deliver bold flavors and satisfying textures that stand on their own.
- Vegan Black Bean Burger: House-made patty with avocado, tomato, lettuce, and vegan aioli on a wheat bun.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos: Spicy cauliflower, crunchy slaw, and creamy vegan ranch in warm tortillas.
- Quinoa Power Bowl: Protein-packed quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, kale, and citrus tahini dressing.
| Dish | Vegetarian | Vegan | Gluten-Free Option |
| Vegan Black Bean Burger | Yes | Yes | Available |
| Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos | Yes | Yes | Available |
| Quinoa Power Bowl | Yes | Yes | Yes |
“We wanted to create vegetarian and vegan dishes that are just as exciting and flavorful as anything else on the menu. Everyone deserves a delicious meal.” – Upland Brewery Sous Chef
Decadent Desserts and Sweet Finishes
No meal at Upland Brewery is complete without indulging in one of their house-made desserts. The dessert menu is carefully crafted to provide the perfect ending, with options that range from rich and chocolatey to light and refreshing.
Desserts at Upland are more than an afterthought. The pastry chef works closely with the brewery to incorporate beers and other local ingredients into sweet creations, resulting in unique flavor profiles you won’t find elsewhere.
Favorites like the Chocolate Stout Cake and Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake have developed a loyal following. Seasonal selections rotate throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something new to tempt your sweet tooth.
- Chocolate Stout Cake: Moist layers of chocolate cake infused with Upland stout, topped with chocolate ganache.
- Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Creamy cheesecake with a bright lemon zing and a blueberry compote.
- Apple Crisp: Warm baked apples, cinnamon oat topping, and vanilla ice cream.
Pairing Desserts with Beer
The staff can recommend dessert and beer pairings that elevate both the sweet and savory elements of the meal. For example, the Chocolate Stout Cake is a natural match for Bad Elmer’s Porter, while the Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake shines alongside the Wheat Ale.
Don’t hesitate to ask for pairing suggestions—these combinations can take your dessert experience to the next level.
Family-Friendly and Kids’ Offerings
Upland Brewery prides itself on being a welcoming destination for guests of all ages. The menu includes a variety of family-friendly options and a dedicated kids’ section, ensuring that even the youngest diners feel right at home.
The kids’ menu features approachable classics made with the same commitment to quality as the rest of the menu. Parents can feel confident that their children are eating fresh, wholesome meals prepared with care.
Beyond food, the relaxed atmosphere, attentive service, and family-friendly events make Upland Brewery a popular choice for gatherings and celebrations. The staff is happy to accommodate special requests and dietary needs for children.
- Grilled Cheese: Gooey cheddar on toasted sourdough, served with fries or fruit.
- Chicken Tenders: Hand-breaded and served with ranch or honey mustard.
- Mini Burger: A kid-sized version of Upland’s classic burger, with or without cheese.
- Pasta Bowl: Buttered noodles or marinara, with optional parmesan cheese.
Making Family Memories
Shared experiences are at the heart of Upland Brewery’s philosophy. The kids’ offerings ensure that families can enjoy great food and time together in a welcoming setting.
“We love seeing families come together over a good meal. Our kids’ menu is built to delight young taste buds and give parents peace of mind.” – Upland Brewery General Manager
Seasonal Specials and Local Sourcing
One of the most distinctive features of the Upland Brewery menu is its commitment to seasonal specials and local sourcing. The culinary team works closely with regional farms and artisans to bring the freshest ingredients to the table, resulting in dishes that are both sustainable and deeply flavorful.
Seasonal specials rotate regularly, reflecting the changing bounty of Indiana’s fields, orchards, and markets. This approach ensures that diners enjoy peak flavors and a menu that feels dynamic, exciting, and relevant to the time of year.
Local sourcing isn’t just about quality—it’s about community. By supporting area growers and producers, Upland Brewery strengthens the local food system and fosters meaningful relationships.
These partnerships are celebrated on the menu and in the stories shared by the staff.
- Spring Asparagus Risotto: Creamy Arborio rice, fresh asparagus, and lemon zest.
- Summer Heirloom Tomato Salad: A colorful medley of tomatoes, basil, and local goat cheese.
- Autumn Harvest Pizza: Roasted squash, caramelized onions, and sage on a crispy crust.
- Winter Root Vegetable Stew: Hearty root vegetables simmered with herbs and Upland Wheat Ale.
The Value of Eating Local
Choosing local ingredients means fresher flavors and a smaller environmental footprint. Upland Brewery’s commitment to local sourcing is a core value that shapes every aspect of the menu.
Seasonal specials keep the dining experience exciting and ensure that guests can enjoy something new with every visit. This focus on the local harvest is a celebration of Indiana’s rich agricultural heritage and Upland’s deep community roots.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Dining Experience
Upland Brewery’s menu is a testament to the possibilities that emerge when passionate chefs, dedicated brewers, and a supportive local community come together. The result is an experience that transcends the typical brewpub fare, offering guests a taste of both tradition and innovation.
Every dish, from the smallest starter to the most decadent dessert, tells a story—of regional pride, culinary creativity, and a genuine love for hospitality.
Whether you visit for the acclaimed craft beers, the inventive vegetarian options, or the seasonal specials that showcase Indiana’s finest produce, you’ll find that Upland Brewery delivers excellence at every turn.
The careful attention to detail, commitment to local sourcing, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for families, friends, and food lovers of all kinds. Each meal is an opportunity to discover something new, to savor flavors that linger, and to create lasting memories.
Next time you’re in Bloomington or near one of Upland’s locations, step inside, raise a glass, and let the menu take you on a journey you won’t soon forget.
