Root Down: A Beacon of Brewing Excellence in Phoenixville, PA
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Phoenixville, PA, a town celebrated for its dynamic resurgence, Root Down stands as a testament to the art of brewing. This establishment is not just a brewery; it’s a sanctuary for those who cherish the finer aspects of beer and dining.
At the forefront of Root Down’s acclaim is The Bine, a masterpiece of brewing that has rightfully earned its accolades, including the prestigious Great American Beer Festival (GABF) award. It’s a beer that resonates deeply with enthusiasts, effortlessly securing its place among my top five favorites. The Bine’s success is a clear indicator of Root Down’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the craft beer scene.
However, Root Down’s brilliance isn’t confined to its beer alone. The food menu is a delightful exploration of flavors, with each dish designed to complement their exceptional brews. A standout is the giant Bavarian pretzel, an offering so good it warrants a visit on its own. This isn’t just a snack; it’s an experience, embodying the joy of pub fare done exceptionally well.
The ambiance of Root Down is further enhanced by its expansive back room, a spacious area adorned with picnic benches that invite camaraderie and conversation. This area, equipped with a large screen projector and cornhole, provides the perfect backdrop for watching a game or simply enjoying the company of friends and family in a relaxed, engaging environment.
The soul of Root Down, however, lies in its people. Chris, the mastermind brewer, and Mike, the passionate owner, are often present, greeting guests and sharing their love for the craft. Their warmth and dedication shine through in every aspect of Root Down, making every visit memorable. They’re not just the faces of the brewery; they’re its heart and soul, ensuring that every patron leaves with a smile.
Phoenixville has been on the rise for years, and Root Down is a shining jewel in its crown. As one of the best breweries in town, it encapsulates the spirit of the community—welcoming, innovative, and bursting with character. The beer and service are nothing short of amazing, and the food is fantastic, making Root Down a must-visit for locals and travelers alike.
In summary, Root Down in Phoenixville, PA, is more than just a brewery. It’s a place where the love for beer, food, and community converge, creating unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply in search of a great meal in a friendly atmosphere, Root Down is poised to exceed your expectations. Here’s to many more visits to this exceptional...
Read moreAt number 5 in the Phoenixville brewery scene is Root Down Brewing Company. Having just opened on Tuesday, I had to check them out. Myself and two friends made the visit last night and we were impressed!
This is a basic brick building on the outside, but the inside really has some prominence! When you first walk in off of Main Street you go through a small entryway. As you open the second door you are overtaken by the sheer size of this building! Huge vaulted ceilings with what look to be original wood beams extend from side to side. Exposed ductwork and steel abound. There is a long bar in front of you to the left that extends nearly the entire wall. The main room has bathrooms, which are cleverly separated from the dining area with a wall and beautiful wood features. Going past the main bar area, down some steps, puts you into the kitchen ordering and another seating area. Again, this building is huge! It reminds me of Bell's one Brewpub in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Very neat building and overall fun ambiance here at Root Down, including former church pews as seating.
Noise level was actually average for how many people were there. It is not quiet by any means. But, I was impressed as I could hold a conversation and not have to scream as with most bars or larger breweries.
Now for the main reason one comes to visit: The drinks! The beers we tried were all quite tasty. I had their Belgian Wit ("Soul") as well as their Altbier ("3 Legged Rabbit"). Both were very enjoyable beers. My friends also give thumbs up for their beer experiences.
For food, I had the Bratwurst with beer braised sour kraut. This includes chips and 3 pickle slices. Presentation was a bit lacking, but the food itself was great! I do not go to a brewery and expect plating to be amazing. It's not a french kitchen! That being said, I finished the bratwurst quite rapidly and was delighted with the flavor. I highly recommend it! My friends had some chips and quac of which they also approved. Their menu and menu hours are listed on their website. They have a Lunch menu, Eats menu and Late Night menu. Make sure to check the hours of each if you are craving a specific culinary treat.
Overall, this has quickly become my favorite brewery, even after just one visit. I cannot wait to make the short walk back to visit once again. If you are anywhere near Phoenixville, make sure to check out this spot. You won't be disappointed.
(Note: I wrote this review...
Read moreHaving just opened in downtown Phoenixville, Root Down Brewery shows a lot of promise. It has the advantages of being just off of the highly trafficked Bridge Street (yet conveniently located across from the Main Street parking lot), having the nicest interior renovation work of any Phoenixville brewery, and offering the most interior space (including an indoor beer garden that'll be a huge win in the winter months).
Moreover, their beer selection is second to none. Normally at launch, most breweries have one or two duds. This is not the case with Root Down. Standouts include their Flying Guillotine unfiltered IPA, the Gaia farmhouse ale, and the Cosmic Brownie stout. And the Cosmic Brownie may be the most satisfying stout that I've had in years.
The ambience of Root Down is also worth noting. Around lunchtime, I walked into the sounds of Alice in Chains and was from that point treated to an excellent soundtrack of 90s hard rock. The bartenders and owners were incredibly hospitable and helpful, directing me to some truly excellent beer selections and explaining the thought process behind some of their beer choices.
I left with 2 growlers in hand -- one of the Three-legged Rabbit altbier and one of the Bine American IPA. The only thing that keeps this from being a 5/5 review is the fact that the only two choices for take-home beers are a 64oz growler or the 24oz "crowler" can (still more than most breweries). If Root Down ever goes the 4-pack pounder can route, they'll truly be a force in local microbrew scene.
Having had a full sampling of their beer menu, I can definitively state that there's not a bad brew in the bunch. Based on location, venue size, and beer quality, Root Down is nearly certain for success in its...
Read more