Pure Michigan Pints

Paw Paw Brewing

Paw Paw, Michigan

This is my own subjective review. I’m highly opinionated. It’s out of 20 total (based on Beer Selection, Vibe, Service, and Beer Quality; I grade harshly and my 4 is probably most people’s 5. Also, I don’t count food against breweries in the total because not all breweries need food to be good and some are in a partnership with nearby restaurants.

From the outside, I thought I’d be in for a treat. It’s a big building. I loved the two paws on the front door. (I love dogs.) Unfortunately, that would be the highlight of my visit to Paw Paw Brewing.

Upon entry the room was spacious. No high tops and only tables low to the ground, some side room (not sure if it’s reserved for special parties or open seating). Later I’d discover a game room with a few pin ball machines and other games almost hidden in the back.

I made my way to the bar. The tables and bar were not bused and three dirty plates still rested on the bar. I looked at the beer menu. And I waited … and I waited … and I waited. To one server’s defense, she was filling hella flights.

Finally, I asked, “How many beers come in a flight?”

“Six.”

Then I waited. By this point it’d already been a few minutes, but I took out my phone because I was curious how long it’d take for them to ask me for my order or at least say, “Hi, we’ll be with you in a second.” A new server came in for her shift. And literally stood right in front of me. She talked to the other servers. Finally, the first server said, “Will you get this guy a beer?” This was at 4:36. I understand places are busy, but a simple greeting can really go a long ways.

Selection—4/5

There were plenty of beers to choose from—a few German styles (Hefeweizen and Kolsch), a stout or two, a few IPAS, and a summer beer (the Kolsch mixed with lemonade). The Kick Ass Kolsch (just mentioned) was my favorite. It was on point for the season.

Variety of beer is not something this brewery lacks.

Vibe—1/5

“Boring” is the best word to describe the interior of the place. There’s no theme, nothing holding it together. The tables are boring, the bar is boring. And, no, having a game room doesn’t make up for the lack of vibrance. Nothing pops. I like a change of scenery to begin with, but this expedited the feeling.

Service—1/5

This is a begrudging 1, because honestly, they don’t deserve a 1. If this wasn’t a scale from 1-5, I’d give them a zero or a negative marking. Aside from the initial long wait, the servers showed no warmth. When I finished my flight, I pushed the beer to the side, indicating I’d like a refill. At this point there were 5 servers behind the bar. The diffusion of responsibility at work.

They preferred to chit-chat among themselves. At one point two even had an argument with each other. If this was something like Always Sunny in Philadelphia, at least this would have been entertaining. Unfortunately, none of the servers had a personality or were funny. I just felt uncomfortable.

Beer Quality—2/5

The summer beer hit the mark, the rest of their feable attempts to mimic German styles were at best poor. Sure, I finished the flight and they were drinkable, but I had to debate which one was the best of the bunch because nothing really stood out except the Kolsch with lemonade. And I am not familiar if any of their beers are “flagship” beers, but for the sake of the people in Paw Paw, I sure hope not.

Food—3/5

Food is always hard to judge, especially if I only get one crack at it. I had a Fire Station burger (you know, a typical spicy burger). They mixed if up a bit with the interesting decision to add banana peppers and jalapeños. It also had mustard and chipotle mayo. It was a typical menu to be honest, and if they had better beer and service, I’d consider returning.

Overall

If you’re absolutely required to go here, check it out. Form your own opinion. I cannot recommend this brewery to anybody in good faith. Go to Warner Brew Haus nearby instead!

Total—8/20