Chehalem Valley Brewing Co. — Restaurant in Newberg

We went here with a group of four for dinner on a Saturday evening.

We ate here once before several years ago shortly after they had opened. Back then it seemed like they had a more limited menu, and they were out of several items. Because of that we didn't go back until now.

Now they have a pretty good menu with burgers, sandwiches, fish-and-chips, tacos, etc. First thing my wife asked for was the blueberry (or maybe it was marion berry) cider that was on the menu board. The waitress said they didn't have that anymore, so she ordered the Sun Of A Peach cider ($8), which she didn't much care for (too sweet). I ordered their winter seasonal beer which was on sale for $5, and was good enough.

Next we asked for an appetizer of the Roasted Green Chili Queso dip ($10.50), but they were out of the cheese to make it. One of our guests asked for Pretzel Sticks ($10.50), but they didn't have the cheese for those either, so we just skipped the appetizers.

For entrees, I ordered the Habanero Slaw burger, ($15) and subbed Garlic Parmesan Fries (additional $2). My wife ordered the Reuben ($15) and asked that they toast it rather than grill it. They were happy to oblige. She also subbed her fries with a salad (extra $3). Our guests had the Nashville Fried Chicken Sandwich ($16.50), and the Pulled Pork Sandwich ($15.50).

We all enjoyed our food and were satisfied. Service was great.

I'm a little reluctant to give them 4 stars, because of the seemingly recurring problem of running out of stuff or having things on the board that are discontinued. But I'm going to give them the benefit of the doubt because of current supply issues.

I might give them...

Under new ownership, this brewery is filled with ambition and welcoming atmosphere. They reopened in the midst of the pandemic, but all they do is push forward, making staggering improvements and working with the times.

They're outdoor seating is more than accommodating, keeping us sheltered from the temperamental weather, but also spaced out enough that we feel safe coming to visit.

In the several times we have visited, we enjoyed everything we tried. In particular, you must get the Nashville Chicken sandwich, the thai wings, and the pretzel bites. All were fresh, hot, and filled with decadent flavor. Each were the perfect accompaniment to a crisp pint of beer as well. Notable pints included: Revolver, Oregon blonde, Irish red, and the Hess Creek porter. They're constantly trying new recipes as well and welcome input. It felt like home from the moment we arrived. That was the most special part. Even amidst the craziness of a late night hour, the owner took the time to chat with us, address our opinions, and make sure we enjoyed ourselves (which we easily did). We didn't visit the establishment prior to the ownership change, but we are very impressed with current staff and managers.

You can also opt into becoming a Mug Club member, which I think is an incredible deal. They're doing a joint special with Social Goods (another joint in the area) with discounts, special perks, and more at both places.

With businesses needing support more than ever, I'm being particular about where I spend my money. I want to make sure the places that have served me well equally get served back. Chehalem definitely is receiving...

Average tasting beers of standard variety (Amber, Brown, Porter, Stout, 3 IPAs, 2 Blondes, and a couple other run of the mill brews). Of all their beers, the Amber was the best, yet still pretty mediocre in body/flavor. Maybe I'm just spoiled by the creative innovations coming out of countless microbreweries across Portland, but I found all of their beers tasted exactly that way, average or to be expected without many unique qualities that stood out from the rest.

The food menu was not very appealing, both in price and culinary inventiveness, again, standard pub fare. The cheese curds were deliciously golden fries with a subtly spicy aioli like dipping sauce, unfortunately there were only about 14 curds (literally, I counted) which were consumed in under 3 mins by myself, not worth $7 for the underwhelming appetizer. The $15 burger would have left me slightly less hungry... perhaps.

Our bartender was friendly and did her job very well. No customer service complaints whatsoever, that attribute goes a long way in my mind, retaining that 3rd star in the overall rating. Having driven past this place a dozen times, I'm still glad we stopped by to satisfying the cravings and curiosity in our adventures to find the best beers!

Tasting room is small-medium size, just off the main road behind a couple other buildings, nice patio space and casual interior digs.

I'd imagine this place does great with the locals and individuals who like their beer tasting just like beer did 25 yrs ago... To each unto their own......