In This Article
Introduction to Taprooms and Brewpubs
There are plenty of technical terms thrown around craft beer that make it difficult to know what to expect. Two of the most notoriously vague are “taproom” and brewpub,” which are go-to destinations for drinking craft beer with similarities and some critical distinctions. It’s pretty hard to go wrong with either a taproom or brewpub, but knowing which one you’re hitting up before you plan a night out is worth knowing.
Here are the differences between taprooms and brewpubs:
What is a Brewpub?
Each state has different laws and designations for what constitutes a “brewpub” in the legal sense. Still, nearly every example of a brewpub is a smaller brewery with a full kitchen and restaurant attached to the premises. If the company is a full-on dedicated brewpub, this will encompass most of the brand’s business. These breweries don’t send their kegs out to bars or rely on packaged beer because most of their output stays on premise.
Features of a Brewpub
Full kitchen and restaurant service:
The consumer experience will be almost identical to that of a restaurant, and there will just be insanely delicious beer on offer and (usually) brewing equipment in the background.
Brewed on-site and served with a meal:
Legally, a brewpub must meet certain conditions to obtain a license. Some states will have caps on production. For example, Minnesota brewpubs can only produce 3,500 barrels per year or sell at least 25% of their beer on-site with kitchen service.
Some brewpubs have become bigger Brands:
National brands like Rock Bottom Brewing and The Ram are two examples of businesses starting in the 90s, brewing amber ale and serving wood-fired pizzas or burgers. Eventually, these grew to become chains with locations in multiple cities, but each brewpub brewed its own beer! The most famous example has to be Dogfish Head, which still operates its brewpub in Delaware despite having its bottles on shelves in every state!
Licenses:
Brewpubs sometimes carry liquor and wine to appeal to a broader range of customers. The brewpub doesn’t produce these and is only allowed with specific liquor licenses.
What is a Taproom?
A taproom is generally a bar set up at a street-facing corner of a brewery or a separate site. These are strictly bars meant for pouring the brewery’s products. These can come in all shapes and sizes, and there has been an increasing number of inventive and stylish concepts developed by breweries that transcend the “picnic tables surrounded by used barrels” layout that was so ubiquitous for decades.
Features of a Taproom
Typically, no full kitchen:
There’s one specific distinction that trumps the rest, and that’s food. Taprooms will not (and are typically not licensed to) serve food. But fret not! Many allow customers to order food for delivery or even bring their own. It’s best to check ahead to know what’s allowed.
Beer is the focus:
These spaces were set up to showcase a brewery’s offerings and create an extension of their brand. Many fans flock to these spaces hoping to drink one-off releases, especially barrel-aged offerings.
Only beer is served:
Typically, the brewery taproom will only have beer produced onsite available. This isn’t always the case, as many breweries will offer cider or non-alcoholic options, but it’s still common for taprooms to strictly serve their beer.
Taprooms usually offer beer to go:
If you’ve tried a few flights and have picked out your favorite, the taproom almost always has cans, bottles, or growlers so you can take some beer home!
Taproom-only breweries:
These operations are generally relatively small, but a few breweries in each city specialize in a taproom and don’t focus on packaged beer. This business model tends to coincide with the brewery focusing on a niche beer style.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Taproom vs Brewpub
| Category | Taproom | Brewpub |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere & Layout | Hipster-centric vibe with open layouts, picnic tables, and bar seating. | Family-oriented with comfy seating and classic decor. |
| Food Options | Usually, no food is served – check if you can bring your own or get delivery. | Offers food; typically bar food, but often includes beer-paired dishes like Belgian mussels or German cuisine. |
| Brewing Equipment on Display | Not always brewing onsite – may be a satellite location. | Brewing is almost always done onsite; tours may be available. |
| Legal & Licensing Differences | Varies by state; license typically differs from that of a brewpub. | Also varies by state; usually licensed as a restaurant that brews beer. |
| Typical Customer Experience | More of a bar experience focused on beer tasting. | More of a restaurant experience with both food and beer. |
How to Choose Between a Taproom and a Brewpub
Going out for drinks? Try a taproom:
A taproom is ideal for a more social outing because you’ll usually find an open format that can accommodate larger groups. You won’t be weighed down with a reservation or needing to split large bills because taprooms generally have bar service, so your experience will be quick and convenient.
Want a meal with your beer? Choose a brewpub:
You want to try a few beers, but you’re with the family and will need to eat. That’s where a brewpub becomes the best of both worlds. Not all brewpubs are created equally, and a few businesses rely on outdated models to present a formulaic “IPA with burger” approach. However, interesting concepts that pair inventive cuisine with impeccable beer are starting to pop up. It always helps to do your research!
Consider the vibe, the crowd, and the beer menu:
If you’re interested in inventive beers that push the boundaries, you’re less likely to find that in a brewpub. Instead, check out brewery taprooms in your area to find niche offerings like barrel-aged stouts or wild ales. If you just want an approachable IPA or amber ale alongside a pizza, then a brewpub is in your future.
Why This Distinction Matters
- For craft beer fans: It’s all about knowing where to go when exploring a craft beer scene. If you want specialty craft beers in hip settings, taprooms are ideal. A brewpub is perfect if you’re with the family or a group and want a more approachable atmosphere that serves food.
- For entrepreneurs: Choosing the right business model from the start couldn’t be more critical for aspiring brewers. You’ll need to take your market’s demographics, locations, legal hurdles, and the beer landscape to choose what’s right for you.
- For local communities: Depending on what a neighborhood is like, a taproom or brewpub opening up shop can mean different things. Brewpubs tend to thrive in the suburbs or family-oriented areas, as larger groups can enjoy a meal. A taproom is always a welcome addition for trendy neighborhoods filled with twenty-somethings!
Conclusion
While there are important differences between the two business models, the throughpoint is delicious craft beer. Every city will have these establishments, and there’s a time and a place for both. Like everything with craft beer, just do your research and keep an open mind!
