Introduction
Brau Brothers Brewing Company, a name synonymous with exceptional craft beer in the heart of Minnesota, has captivated beer enthusiasts for years. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and the art of brewing has earned them a loyal following. But while their expertly crafted IPAs, lagers, and stouts often take center stage, there’s another equally compelling reason to visit Brau Brothers: their thoughtfully curated food menu. Far from being an afterthought, the Brau Brothers food menu is a culinary companion designed to elevate the beer-drinking experience, offering a diverse and satisfying range of dishes that perfectly complement their liquid creations. Forget the typical brewery snacks; this is a carefully constructed selection that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, making Brau Brothers a destination for both beer aficionados and discerning food lovers alike. The Brau Brothers food menu goes beyond basic pub fare, proving that a brewery can excel in both liquid and solid gastronomy, creating a truly memorable experience for every patron. It demonstrates their dedication to crafting an experience that engages all the senses.
A Gastronomic Gathering: An Overview of the Menu
The Brau Brothers food menu is intelligently organized, designed to guide you through a culinary journey that pairs seamlessly with their beer offerings. Whether you’re looking for a light bite to share with friends, a hearty sandwich to fuel your afternoon, or a satisfying entree to cap off the evening, you’ll find a tempting selection to choose from. The menu is typically divided into sections, starting with tempting appetizers, transitioning into satisfying burgers and hand-held creations, offering crisp and refreshing salads, presenting filling entrees, and culminating with delectable sides and tempting desserts. The overall style leans toward elevated gastropub fare, featuring classic comfort food favorites with a modern twist and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. There’s a distinct emphasis on seasonality, with the menu often adapting to showcase the best produce and flavors of each season. This commitment to freshness ensures that there’s always something new and exciting to discover, even for regular visitors. Because of this seasonality, it is always a good idea to check their online menu or ask your server about featured specials that bring something new to the plate.
Starting Strong: Appealing Appetizers
The appetizer selection at Brau Brothers is designed for sharing and provides the perfect starting point for any meal. One standout item is the locally sourced cheese curds, a true Minnesota classic. These golden-fried nuggets of cheese are incredibly addictive, offering a satisfying crunch and a delightfully gooey interior. They are served with a house-made dipping sauce, providing a flavorful contrast to the rich, savory cheese. Pair this delicious appetizer with a crisp, refreshing Brau Brothers lager to cut through the richness of the cheese and cleanse the palate. Another crowd-pleaser is the Brau Brothers Pretzel Bites. These soft, chewy pretzel bites are served warm with a creamy beer cheese dip, a match made in heaven. The salty pretzel is a perfect counterpoint to the rich, cheesy dip, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. For a truly indulgent experience, try pairing these pretzel bites with a malty amber ale from Brau Brothers. The malty sweetness of the beer complements the savory pretzel and cheese, creating a truly satisfying combination. The beer cheese itself is made with a Brau Brothers beer, meaning the flavors tie directly to the brewery. Brau Brothers has been known to offer seasonal appetizers, such as fried green tomatoes or a dip featuring ingredients from a local harvest, so it’s always worth checking to see what new options are available!
Burgers, Built for Beer: A Meaty Mainstay
Brau Brothers understands the symbiotic relationship between a great burger and a cold beer, and their burger selection reflects this understanding. The signature Brau Brothers Burger is a must-try for any first-time visitor. This juicy, flavorful burger features a perfectly cooked patty, topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, and their signature sauce, all nestled between a toasted bun. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. To truly elevate this burger experience, pair it with a hoppy IPA from Brau Brothers. The bitterness of the IPA cuts through the richness of the burger, while the citrusy aromas complement the savory flavors. For those looking for a customized experience, Brau Brothers often offers a build-your-own burger option, allowing you to create the burger of your dreams. Choose from a variety of cheeses, toppings, and sauces to tailor your burger to your specific preferences. This level of customization ensures that there’s a burger for everyone on the menu. This menu item is a testament to their understanding of pairing the right food with the right brews, creating a truly satisfying meal that embodies the spirit of the brand. It is a culinary adventure that you can tailor to your own preferences, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy.
Handheld Happiness: Sandwiches and Wraps
Beyond burgers, the Brau Brothers food menu boasts a selection of enticing sandwiches and wraps. A standout is the Smoked Brisket Sandwich. Slow-smoked to perfection, the brisket is tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor. It’s served on a toasted bun with tangy barbecue sauce and creamy coleslaw, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. To complement the rich, smoky flavors of the brisket, pair it with a dark, robust porter from Brau Brothers. The roasted malt flavors of the porter will enhance the smoky notes of the brisket, creating a truly decadent experience. Another excellent option is the Chicken Ranch Wrap. This wrap features grilled chicken, crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. It’s a lighter, fresher option that’s perfect for a warm day. Pair this wrap with a light, refreshing pilsner from Brau Brothers to cleanse the palate and complement the fresh flavors. The use of high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations sets the Brau Brothers sandwiches apart, ensuring that each bite is a delicious and satisfying experience. The sandwiches are crafted with the same care and attention to detail as their beers, solidifying their commitment to offering a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Substantial Suppers: Entrees to End the Day Right
For those seeking a more substantial meal, the Brau Brothers food menu offers a selection of satisfying entrees. The Walleye Fish Fry, a Midwestern staple, is a popular choice. Lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, the walleye is tender, flaky, and incredibly flavorful. It’s served with tartar sauce, coleslaw, and a choice of side. Pair this classic entree with a crisp, clean pilsner or a light lager from Brau Brothers to cut through the richness of the fried fish and complement its delicate flavor. Another noteworthy entree is the Braised Short Ribs. Slow-braised until fork-tender, the short ribs are rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. They’re served with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. Pair these decadent short ribs with a robust stout from Brau Brothers. The roasted malt flavors of the stout will complement the richness of the short ribs, creating a truly indulgent experience. Brau Brothers’ entrees are a reflection of their commitment to quality ingredients and culinary expertise, offering a range of dishes that satisfy even the heartiest appetites. The care taken in preparing each entree showcases their dedication to providing a well-rounded dining experience that goes beyond typical pub fare.
Finishing Touches: Sides and Desserts
No meal is complete without sides and desserts, and Brau Brothers doesn’t disappoint. Their selection of sides includes classic favorites like French fries, onion rings, and coleslaw, all prepared with care and attention to detail. But for a truly memorable experience, try the sweet potato fries. These fries are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and seasoned with a hint of cinnamon, creating a sweet and savory flavor combination. For dessert, the Brau Brothers Chocolate Lava Cake is a must-try. This rich, decadent cake features a molten chocolate center that oozes out with every bite. It’s served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a perfect balance of warm and cold, rich and creamy. Pair this decadent dessert with a dessert beer from Brau Brothers, such as a chocolate stout or a raspberry ale, to enhance the sweetness and create a truly unforgettable experience. The sides and desserts at Brau Brothers are the perfect finishing touch to any meal, showcasing their commitment to quality and flavor from start to finish. They ensure that every aspect of the dining experience is carefully considered and executed, leaving a lasting impression on every guest.
From Farm to Table: Locally Sourced Ingredients and Sustainability
Brau Brothers is committed to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, supporting local farmers and reducing their environmental impact. This commitment is reflected in the freshness and quality of their food menu. By partnering with local suppliers, Brau Brothers is able to offer dishes that are not only delicious but also sustainable. This emphasis on sustainability extends beyond ingredients to other aspects of their operations, such as waste reduction and energy conservation. These efforts demonstrate a genuine commitment to environmental responsibility. The use of local ingredients also contributes to the unique character of the Brau Brothers food menu, showcasing the flavors of the region and supporting the local community. This commitment to sustainability and local sourcing is a key differentiator for Brau Brothers, attracting customers who value environmentally conscious practices.
The Complete Package: Food and Beer Harmony
The true magic of the Brau Brothers experience lies in the seamless integration of their food and beer offerings. The food menu is carefully designed to complement the beer selection, with each dish thoughtfully paired with a specific brew. This attention to detail elevates the dining experience to a new level, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. The atmosphere at Brau Brothers is also a key component of the overall experience. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal in the brewpub or gathering with friends in the beer garden, you’ll find a welcoming and comfortable environment that encourages relaxation and conversation. The friendly staff is knowledgeable and passionate about both the food and the beer, always willing to offer recommendations and answer questions. This combination of delicious food, expertly crafted beer, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Brau Brothers a destination for foodies and beer lovers alike. It really is the perfect combination of all the best things in life.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Brewpub
In conclusion, the Brau Brothers food menu is far more than just an afterthought. It’s a carefully curated culinary experience that complements their exceptional craft beer offerings, providing a diverse and satisfying range of dishes for every palate. From their tempting appetizers to their hearty entrees and decadent desserts, every item is prepared with care and attention to detail, showcasing their commitment to quality and flavor. The Brau Brothers food menu truly enhances the overall dining experience, solidifying their reputation as a destination for both beer aficionados and discerning food lovers. The thoughtful pairing of food and beer, the emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, and the welcoming atmosphere all contribute to a truly memorable experience. Don’t just go for the beer; experience the full culinary delight that Brau Brothers has to offer. So, the next time you’re looking for a place to enjoy a great meal and a perfectly paired brew, be sure to visit Brau Brothers and explore their exceptional food menu for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!
