What's the best microbrewery in Vegas?
For those who like the ordinary commercial beers, this is a no brainier. All casinos serve beer of course. And if you are playing in their casinos, they will comp you beer after beer until your bankroll or consciousness runs out, whichever happens first.
But suppose your taste is a little more refined? Say you prefer what are commonly called microbrews (though many so-called "microbrews" actual come from large breweries). Well, unless you're in one of the smaller casinos you're likely to get a Samuel Adams, or at least a Heineken.
But those of you who prefer a true microbrew experience - beer brewed fresh at the site where you are enjoying it, you have at least four choices. If you are lucky they will serve you fresh beer comped as you play their machines or table games.
This chain of brewery restaurants, based in Palo Alto, CA, has what is described as its flagship location in Las Vegas. Located on Paradise Road not far from the airport, Gordon Biersch Las Vegas boasts of an airy, bright building reminiscent of a converted San Francisco warehouse. Two private dining rooms are available for entertaining locals and conventioneers. Gordon Biersch Las Vegas is open for lunch and dinner. There is no casino.
This resort may not have the outlandishness of its neighbors, MGM Grand, New York New York, Excalibur, Luxor and the Strip, but the Monte Carlo Pub & Brewery does offer six specialty ales in a restaurant with 35 big screen TVs and a state-of-the-art sound system.
The following are from the Monte Carlo beer menu.
- High Roller Red: A smooth, full bodied amber ale with carmel and toffee notes complex malt character is balanced by fruity tones.
- Las Vegas Lites: Monte Carlo's lightest offereing is a pale ale that offers a smooth flavor with a crisp, clean and dry finish.
- Silver State Stout: A dry, smooth version of the traditional Irish stout is created from a complex blend of six types of barley and oatmeal.
- Winners Wheat: This unfiltered american-style wheat ale with a refreshng flavor that makes you ask yourself, "Do I feel lucky?"
- Jackpot Ale: A hearty golden copper colored ale with a hoppy aroma and flavor.
- Brewmasters Special: A changing assortment of seasonal favorites and creative expressions of the Monte Carlo brew crew.
Located downtown, the Triple 7 Brewpub at Main Street Station offers five varieties. You can enjoy the beer not only in the pub, but also at the Pullman Grill, one of the most highly regarded restaurants in downtown Vegas. They will also comp you any of their microbrews as you play your favorite casino games.
- High Roller Gold: The Flagship beer at Main Street Station and the most popular.
- Royal Red Lager: An easy-drinking lager with a character balanced by "noble" hops.
- Marker Pale Ale: My personal favorite, whether its in between hands of video poker while listen to live Motown music in the Triple 7 Brewpub, or between hands of blackjack in the casino. But don't enjoy it to much at the tables - it has the highest alcohol content of Main Street's lineup.
- Blackchip Porter: A blend of five malts gives it a complex flavor with chocolate and toffee undertones.
- Triple 7 Brewmaster Special: A monthly rotation including Raspberry Wheat, Triple 7 Hefe Weizen, IPA and Black Cherry Stout.
