Big Hammock Brewery & Bites – Brewery Review | Condé Nast Traveler
"What were your first impressions when you arrived? The horse capital of Florida, Ocala is a hilly, Florida hinterland north of Orlando with some surprises in store. Case in point: this fab brewery with historic flare. The walls of the brewery are covered with vintage black and white photos of Native Americans and early tourism in the area. Exposed brick walls, a big wooden bar, and high top tables and small four tops make for a cozy pub feel. I actually went for the food, a bit novel in the craft beer world: ramen and bao buns. What’s the crowd like? It's a mix of horse people and young families, a laid-back crowd. Nothing boisterous but not buttoned-up either. What should we be drinking? You're here for the beer (though there is a tasty pineapple cider as well). Pull up a stool at the bar and dig into a steaming bowl of ramen with a pint of popular Florida craft beers from around the state or one of the varieties brewed in house, like the Lemon Point IPA. Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. Bao buns, scallion pancakes, and perfect steaming ramen are the surprise here. It's a casual, affordable menu and the ramen broth is said to simmer for 18 hours; something you can taste in the richness and complexity. They also do a mean Philly cheese steak and pressed pork sandwich if you're looking for more typical American pub food. And how did you find the staff? Nothing out of the ordinary, but they're locals who live here and know the menu and what to recommend. Friendly, fast service. What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? To surprise yourself with worldly tastes and great beers in downtown Ocala." - Terry Ward
