Saturday, November 10, 2007

Review: Alcatraz Brewing Company, Indianapolis

Interior Alcatraz Brewing Company, Indianapolis

Note: This also appears with my reviews over on Yelp

Overall Impression:
Somehow Alcatraz Brewing Company manages to be generically over the top. The space is Costco-like vast and on the day we were there it was decked out with Colts blue and white balloons, a la a car dealership during a sizzlin' summer sale. What it lacks in authentic charm, though, it makes up for in convenience. Very close to the dome, which probably means this is a little money minting factory.

I was only here for two beers prior to heading over the the RCA Dome for "Super Bowl XLI 1/2", so my review won't go into the usual depth but rather just hit a couple of key points.

Atmosphere - Definitely a little crazy for pre-game. Crowded with Colts fans. Made for some slightly uncomfortable areas near the bar, but it was early enough that people weren't too drunk or surly about bumping into each other.

woman in blue sequined tank @ the bar- alcatraz brewing company, Indianapolis

Service - Our waitress wasn't thriving on the energy. She seemed overwhelmed. Well-intentioned, but over matched by the crowd. Again, it was still early so I don't think her demeanor was a result of dealing with a string of over served a-holes, but rather just being swamped. Servers in this kind of atmosphere can either embrace it and begin counting the money of they can wilt. Ours wilted a bit.

The Beer - This was the bright spot. Standouts were the October Bock and the Pelican Pale Ale."

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