Abbey Bar — Restaurant in DeLand

Great selection of craft beer and meads, unfortunately the bearded bald guy is a real piece of work. Not sure if he's the owner, manager, or just works there.

Anyhow, I've gone the past 2 weekends AND brought guests with me each time. The bearded bald guy spoke with me and my party of 3 for about 10 minutes regarding beer last night. In fact, we closed the place down.

So this morning my family and I were headed to Hunter's for breakfast. The street was blocked for the festival; therefore, I tried to cut through the parking lot behind the Abbey Bar. There was a barricade in the middle of the parking lot, but not definitively blocking anything, since one could easily pass on either side. As I make my way around it, I recognized the bearded bald guy from last night, parking his van diagonally, to block people from passing through. (He must've also realized that the barricade wasn't really serving a purpose).

I rolled down my window to respectfully ask him if the way I was heading was closed or something, thinking that perhaps he'd recognize me from just the night before, or just be a decent human being and politely answer my question. Well, apparently he didn't remember that I'd spent my money there less than 12 hours earlier, because he was a real jerk for no reason.

He sarcastically stated, "the parking lot is closed, that's why there's a barricade there." I told him I wasn't trying to park, but simply wanted to pass through to get around the street closure. He then stated, even more rudely, "you're trying to cut through a parking lot that's closed, what don't you understand?"

By the way, the parking lot was full of cars too, so it's not like it was clearly obvious that the lot was supposed to be closed. One would think, if the lot is closed then there should be a barricade at the entrance, not in the middle of the lot. But even if it were obvious, there was no need for him to be a douchebag about it. Besides, what authority does he have to enforce traffic in a free public parking lot? Furthermore, what difference did it make to him if I cut through the parking lot? I'm wasn't hurting anything.

We exchanged a few unpleasant words and as I turned around to leave, I let him know that he'd just lost a customer. That's when this idiot stated, "yeah, like you would ever come here anyway." Not sure what that was supposed to mean, but hellooo? I was just there with my friends, talking to you last night dummy!

Not only have I come before, but I've been 3 times in the last month AND recommended this place to others! Now, I won't be doing either after this totally unnecessary encounter. What a shame, because I was really starting to like this place. Good thing they aren't the only place to get craft...

Abbey Bar is one of the best spots for craft beer in Central Florida. It’s earned national recognition, named one of the “Top 100 Beer Bars in America” by Imbibe Magazine and even listed on “100 Bars to Visit Before You Die.” The reputation is well deserved.

We went on a Sunday, when they’re usually closed, but they had opened for Delandtoberfest and the DeLand Craft Show. It was the perfect way to wrap up the afternoon. The vibe was laid-back and welcoming, with staff and patrons alike being friendly and easy to talk to. Behind the bar was Sammy who is always smiling, personable, and attentive.

The Abbey is known for its adventurous lineup, and the selection of meads and sour beers stood out, offering options you won’t find just anywhere. We have ordered meads and sours on other occasions. This time, my wife and I both ordered Central 28’s Hullabaloo Festbier, a Bavarian-style Marzen in honor of Oktoberfest. It was excellent, smooth and malty with caramel notes, balanced by spicy German hops, finishing crisp and clean. We enjoyed a couple of rounds while playing cribbage.

We didn’t try the food this time (they offer a small menu of appetizers, quesadillas, and paninis), but when it comes to drinks, Abbey has never let us down. With knowledgeable staff, a great selection of beer, wine, and mead, and a cozy community vibe, it’s easy to see why Abbey is considered one of the premier craft bars in Florida. We’ve never had a bad experience here and always look forward to...

Abby in Deland is a great local hangout. A wonderful selection of beers, ales, and meads to suit anybody’s tastes. Boasting quite an impressive tap wall. Ivy and Sage always know what we like and have a sample or tell us about something new as soon as we walk in. They also have a menu of delicious quesadillas, charcuteries, and more. They host some of my favorite local events such as All The Queens Men drag shows, and drag bingo. You can grab a table, sit at the bar, or enjoy a stogie at the sidewalk seating and people watch in Downtown Deland. A very inviting, friendly, and inclusive...