Brass Elk Brewing

Previous visits have been good, see my previous review on Brass Elk. However, my most recent visit 2/21/26 was not good. Went for lunch, and was quite disappointed. On the good side, service was good, servers were friendly, tried to be helpful, food came out quickly. I found their system confusing though, as you didn't have one server, they all stopped at the table at various times. Food was disappointing. Wife had the Reuben sandwich. Reuben should be corned beef, what she had was NOT corned beef, it looked like roast beef, she said it tasted like leftover prime rib from last night. The fries were good though. I had angel hair pasta shrimp scampi. The shrimp was good, properly cooked without being rubbery, good flavor. The angel hair was badly overcooked, clumpy, mushy. Angel hair is easy to overcook, because it's so thin, but if you are going to offer it on the menu, the cooks need to know how to keep an eye on it. The worst part was the noise/music/DJ. It was so horribly loud, we could not talk. The next table were screaming at each other to be heard. We asked the servers, twice, to turn it down. The first said it was some sort of event, the DJ was running it, and they couldn't change it. The second said she would ask the manager, and I saw her walk up the the manager, talk to him, and saw him shake his head. I opened up the decibel meter on my phone, and it recorded an average of 87 decibels, with a peak of 90 decibels. Equivalent to a large lawn mower. Hearing protection recommended for extended exposure. In retrospect, we should have left when they first said no. We did see another couple who did leave. I would have given 1 star, but because we've had good experience in the past, I'll average it as a 2 star.

Good spot for dinner, decent menu, and drinks, of course plenty of beer choices. A bit noisy, but, quieter once folks left for Lerner theater show.

BEB is in a great location with plenty of parking and a large, comfortable outdoor dining area. Service was good, prices were reasonable, and they had a nice selection of beer, but our food was disappointing. The fries were overcooked and my chicken sandwich was tougher than a rodeo cowboy.

The food was fresh and so good. Crab cakes were definitely homemade. Had a flight of beers. Service was great. Sat on the patio with our pup and enjoyed the riverview. They even brought our dog a dish for water.

The service, atmosphere, and food were exceptional. The Reuben sandwich, loaded fries, and crème brûlée coffee cake were all outstanding. I highly recommend this establishment for lunch and plan to return for dinner soon.

We did not have food just a dissert the apple dissert and the 5 beer taster both was so good

I was between a 4 and 5 star. The place is beautiful! Service was great! Most of our food was amazing. Especially the Bavarian pretzels sticks for the appetizer with the dip! Delicious! The desert, I believe was an apple bread pudding, neither my husband or I recommend. It was very bland and the icecream almost wouldn't even melt on a very warm plate because of how hard frozen it was. We couldn't even break it apart! lol! The frys were a little bland but not bad! Other than that I recommend giving this place a try!😊

$32 to reserve a table for the Galentine’s Day Brunch that was a poorly planned event. We had a bad feeling when we walked in to see the staff rushing around to prepare and set tables (why was this not done the night before or earlier in the morning?) Because of that, the waiting area was getting packed since they couldn’t seat anyone at the start. Appetizers came out quick and were good. My table was lucky to get a single round of drinks while others left after waiting for over an hour to get theirs. The patio was chilly because they didn’t have propane for 3 out of 6 heaters. We were finally able to order another round of drinks, but after 35 mins of still waiting we had enough. I had to get up and find our waiter to cancel the drink orders and ask for our checks. They were severely understaffed and overwhelmed—which is odd given management should have had an idea of how many were attending since it’s was a limited event and by reservation only. Sadly, this was my first and last visit to the Brass Elk.

Great service. Chill atmosphere. Pretty good food especially for the price! The beer is not for my taste but check it out. Maybe it is for you! Would definitely come back here.

Food was just ok. Steak was ordered med rare and it was medium well. Carrots could have been cooked another 5 minutes. Too raw. Salad was just leaf lettuce out of the box. Nothing else. A little red onion and a cherry tomato would have been a big improvement. Didn't try any of their beers so maybe this is more of a brewery than a restaurant.

We stopped for drinks & an appetizer on a beautiful Friday afternoon. We sat outside & had an attentive waitress. Hubby ordered a draft & I had the Apple Pie Cider. Tasty! A hint of cinnamon! We had delicious pretzel sticks with beer cheese. They came as a plate of 3. I like even numbers when sharing apps!

Food was delicious. Appreciate that gluten free options are marked clearly. No complaints

This place is not ADA compliant if you have a service dog. Tried to come here with my service dog and was told I had to go around the back, walk up a grassy hill and enter through the back. I have a service dog due to mobility issues and energy limitations. This took a lot out of me. I understand about the kitchen but that is NOT a reason to treat a person with a disability like that. Check ADA law. You can not refuse service or put a person with a service dog in another area for your business convenience. This experience ruined any chance of me eating at this establishment, what if i needed to use the restroom. Would they insist I pee outside? I have no idea how the food is, I could not spend any more time at a business who treated its disabled clients so poorly.

We sat on a beautiful summer day at appetizers my guess had a beer I had water, but it was a beautiful area

Sat in the enclosed outside area! Super cozy! Awesome festive cocktails that were delicious! Served was awesome and Brussels sprouts and Rueben were yummy! Carbonara was the worst I've ever had only reason I'm not doing 5 stars!

It's a cool place with great music, and the service is really great. The food was meh. I will definitely try again in the future.

We had a group of 9, and everyone was pleased, from smash burgers, salmon, and my shrimp scampi ( appetizer, plenty of shrimp, but not served with noodles, which they told me in advance). Service was good. Noisy, as most restaurants are, unfortunately .

Food and atmosphere are good. Have been there several times. The patio in warm weather is great.

First timer, ordered the fried fish and fries. Food - the fish, hush puppies and fries came out not only looking burnt , but pieces of breading was missing from the fish and the fries were all wilted. I still gave it a shot , but it tasted worse. I picked out the semi-rubbery fish but left the rest. Fries tasted stale and like they were reheated. The server and manager did ask if i wanted to try something else, but if the cooks had no problem selling something so poor in quality, why would i want to try anything else???

Horrible service from our server. Food should not have been cold and dry. Beer was fine. Nice outdoor seating.

Awesome view on the river and food was excellent. Wait staff was great and restaurant was very nice and clean.

Great food. Oysters sae some of the best i ever had. Awesome waygu burgers. Drimks are awesome. Chef figgy is a genius never had a special i never loved

Overall, thumbs up. Our server (Chuck) was attentive, helpful and had a great sense of humor. Our hostess lacked personality and didn't seem too pleased to be there, but at least our time with her was brief. The patio section was kept nice and warm with heaters... felt like our own personal fireside dinner. :) The steak salad was... good-ish, but not what I was expecting. It didn't look anything like another guest's picture. Very heavy on the greens, good amount of steak, very little of everything else and the dressing kinda pooled in the bottom and I wasn't even sure at first if I even had any. Definitely would not order again if I go back. The Parm Truffle fries were very good and worth ordering! If I'm in Elkhart again, I'd go back... maybe just take a different route on the menu and give an adult beverage a try.

Customer service needs to improve. Granted we came in to the restaurant 45 minutes before close but during our entire experience we rushed and felt as an inconvenience. We ordered 2 appetizers and 1 entree, to be conscious of the time constant. When the entree was brought to our table it was thrown at my husband, and the food was old.... truly unacceptable. The server was kind and the beer was ok.

Won't be back, we were told an hour wait for outdoor seating and instead of telling us they can't seat they let us wait. After an hour and a half of waiting the manager proceeded to tell us he couldn't seat us. Next time maybe tell us there's no table instead of having us wait.

I'll start that the staff was great. We were seated inside first but asked if we could sit on the patio and Miguel quickly cleaned off a table for us and seated us at a table overlooking the River. New to our group we were hopeful yet a little a little hesitant bc the last restaurant at this location did not have great service and food was inconsistent. Do not compare, Brass Elk had the friendliest service and our food was excellent. The grilled sirloin steak salad was the bomb! Steak was tender and the marinade in it was omg so good!! Our group ordered Rueben's and smash burgers with fries. The fries tasted like they were fresh cut, also great. Beer was okay, the Saison was our fav. Miguel was the best server... sit in his area when you come here.

My husband really liked his Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich. Chicken was tender and the hot honey, sriracha sauce, and caraway slaw made a flavorful topping with just the right amount of heat. I enjoyed the Reuben Sandwich of which the corned beef was plentiful and it had good flavor; however...I found the meat to be a combination of dry and moist. And the fries...DELICIOUS. My husband still found room for dessert, spiced apple bread pudding and happy the waitress brought extra spoons!! No picture since we dove into it. Lol. The service was excellent from the moment we stepped inside the door! And we had a friendly, sweet waitress who made sure we had what we needed throughout our meal. I look forward to returning and think it would be lovely to dine there on a warm summer evening or stop by for an appetizer and libation. The restaurant's decor is fun and the fact that it is wheelchair accessible made all the difference in that we could bring my elderly mom to dine there with us.

Open limited hours Sunday brunch, Monday 5 to 10; Thursday, Friday n Saturday. Located along Elkhart River off Main Street. Sat outside- nice but sweaty (90+) We Had great service with Steve Ordered starters smoked salmon n sun dried tomato salad; the best Ruben sandwich ever with Grey poupon; fries accompanied with a dried up dill pickle. Excellent IPA Good experience last night in Elkhart

Great draft beer selection and tasty apps and dinners. Bartender was super friendly and helpful with drink and food selections. Live music as well!

Wonderful atmosphere! Our server was very attentive. They have a nice sized patio that overlooks the Elkhart River. The traditional smash burger was delicious, but nothing special (prime beef, velveeta, house pickles, LTO, potato bun).

Came to Brass Elk after a lovely night at the Wellfield Lights expecting a nice way to wind down our night. The place is your typical brewery aesthetic with wood accents and nice lighting. It looked nice inside. The service, however, was a different story. First, we were mistakenly called to get seated and the wait staff was flustered and rushed to find us a table. We were seated in the terrace and we had many problems here. The door to the terrace was very heavy and should have been propped open as wait staff and other guests had to strong-man the door open. The door was constantly being open and closed, as there is 7+ tables on the terrace. Another gripe we had was a server was rolling silverware behind us and they were clashing silverware for all to hear. A little consideration here would have been nice since we were right behind this station. Service as a whole took a while, from putting our order in and getting our tab, it was too long. The food wasn't bad but wasn't great either. Our Kaarage had good flavor and were crispy but we wished we had more. I had the Bleu Smash, and it cooked well and had a nice flavor however could have more blue cheese crumbs and more sauce. My Mom had the Indy Pork Sandy and she said it could have need more mayo since the sandwich eats a little dry. My brother had the French dip, no problems here. The fries were pretty tasty but definitely needs katchup on the side, especially since they give you a nice serving. Overall, the service definitely could have used some improvements. We felt the price point for the handheld could have been better for what we got. We won't be back.

Highly recommend this place. Our server was wonderful! Food was fantastic. And love the atmosphere. We will definitely be making this a regular spot. The only thing I would change would be adding to the waffle entrees. My 7 year old daughter ate the whole thing and so did my 11 year old who actually asked for more. For an adult it could use a third waffle. The chicken and waffles could have had two waffles. They're delicious but on the thinner side. More like a pancake in thickness. And we are not big eaters. We never finish our plates.

We went here a few weeks ago for a late lunch/early dinner. We shared an appetizer of caramelized onion & gruyere dip which was good but very rich and just too much for 2 people (if you are going to have other food). We each had a burger and fries which were quite tasty.

A shiney new example of brewing elegance on Elkhart's evolving Riverwalk, this one doesn't disappoint. Love the tip of the hat to Elkhart's rich musical instrument manufacturing heritage evidenced in the decor and libation names. The Brussels Sprouts are the best flavored I have ordered anywhere. I usually order IPAs, but ordered the White Rump Wheat, made in-house, wanting to keep it light. It was impressive for a wheat with a lot of pizazz and flavor for a wheat. One of my table mates ordered the salmon spread and found it divine. Lastly, this place has a warm, bright welcoming industrial-style decor.

Nice place to go good drinks and good food! Make sure and try the Brussels sprouts they are always yummy!!!

Food was fabulous, service was great, & staff were very friendly and accommodating. Great atmosphere and family friendly.

Great place for beer, food and conversation. Outdoor seating along river. Monday's live music. Try the Brussel sprouts appetizer very good.

The service was great and the food was delicious. I had the Brussels which were perfectly charred and drizzled with sriracha mayo. So good! I was a little sad that I couldn't eat them all but it was really big. Then I had the bolognese which was also amazing. I would have stayed and tried a few more beers but they close at 9. Next time I'm in town I'll be back!

The food did not disappoint and loved the atmosphere. The place was packed and runs along the Elkhart River. Menu is fresh and has great choice. The only downside is that it services many locals and they definitely took priority over a first time diner. I was never asked if I wanted another drink or a refill of water. BUT I would still go there again but will be prepared to speak up better!!!

The best meal experience as a Road Warrior in 45 years. I sat outside by the river with imaginative solo guitar / vocal at the correct volume, not too loud for people eating and not attending a concert. The service my Marlin was spot on. I thoughly enjoyed my Rueben on great Marble black bread. Perfect meal, service, music and location. I will certainly be back.

Nice place along the river in Elkhart. Personally, I found the in-house brews to be heavy on the non IPA choices, but there were some decent "guest" selections on tap. The cheese curds and Brussels sprouts appetizers were excellent. The Sticky Thai Chicken sandwich and Rueben were also very tasty. I would definitely go again and try other menu items.

Love this restaurant! The food is consistently amazing. Try the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, Reuben, or the Achiote Chicken Tacos. Delicious!! Our server tonight was Shanna. She was amazing. Very responsive and really understands the menu. Can't wait to come back!

Delicious food and great atmosphere. We tried two flights of beer. Our teenagers also enjoyed the food.

Ordered steak it was the toughest steak I've ever had in my life. Not too sure if it was the cut or if the cook had never made a steak in his life. Took the steak back and the managers response was it's gonna come out the same way and we're not Ruth Chris. Not too sure who hired him but definitely should be reconsidered. Same goes for the dumb hostesses and servers who had no idea what sauce came with our steak when we were missing that as well. And don't expect to get any silverware or napkins with your Togo.

Brass Elk isn't usually open on Wednesdays but tonight was different! The headline "tacos, burgers and beers" was all it took for us! New menu of small plates like tostadas, Asian-style fries, etc., and handhelds--dogs, burgers and tacos. Todd said the chili dog was the best he's ever had!

Great food, prompt and friendly service and they were able to accommodate our very large group of 30

I am so so happy that this place is finally open. I live across the street at the apartments so I can literally walk here whenever I want for some bomb food and drinks. I was the first group to ever be seated here at their original pop up. The serving staff is so kind and helpful. However I do think there could be improvements with the hostesses (just feel they could've been more efficient and timely with seating or informing people that they could go outside with no wait). I've only been to two of their several pop ups with limited menus so I can't review the entire menu options. However, the tacos were delicious and the drinks are strong. A bit on the more expensive side for the area but I have little to no complaints on that. The area is perfect and the drinks are awesome. Will definitely be going back.

This spot is perfect for the downtown location. It's a new brewery in Elkhart. The food is delicious (except the fries, which had no flavor) and the drinks are strong. There is always a drink special, so be sure to ask about it. The staff is friendly, although it took our waitress 8 minutes to come to our table after we'd been seated (hence the four star review). Overall, we love this restaurant and plan to come again.

Was treated like a burden by the hostess when we arrived at 9 p.m. on a Saturday. She rolled her eyes and said the kitchen closed at 9 but they were open until 10, and said we could get drinks at the bar. We walked to the bar and they said "no, sorry, we're closing," and kicked out our group and two other groups an hour before their posted closing time, and right after they told us they were open another hour. Awful treatment from lazy staff. Won't be going back.

We stopped for some drinks and appetizers & we were not disappointed! Miguel, our waiter was prompt, personal and a lot of fun. Beer was good and the smoked salmon dip was amazing. We sat in the patio and the setting is beautiful.

Finally someone nailed this location! Located right on the river downtown across from bandshell in Central Park. I came for Sunday brunch. I had a Breakfast Smash - burger w/ egg and bacon. Of the beers the Selmer Saison, Beardsley Brown, and Wandering Wapiti stood out. If you're from Elkhart you'll like the subtle references to Elkhart history: brass instruments, Elk, and industry. Very comfortable and trendy without the hipster nonsense you find at some brew pubs. Well done!!

First: the absolute best patio in the region, hands down. Outstanding food and service. The beers across the board are some of the best I have had. If you can land when they have the Beardsley Brown on tap, do not miss out.

Have been coming to this restaurant for a couple of years now. Has always had its up and downs but seems to be finally finding its stride. On my latest visit everything from top to bottom was fantastic. We came in on a busy friday night as a table of 6. Were sat within 5 minutes and had drinks in front if us less than 5 minutes later. The bartender Ryder was incredible. Had great knowledge of the menu as well as a cocktails in general. He treated us like his favorite guests and this is the first time ive had him serve me there. Will definitely be coming back soon to try out the new menus. Very excited to have this place as a go to

Food was OK, not great. Service made us feel like we didn't belong there. Strange vibe. Won't be coming back when we are in town. Seems like that's what the staff would prefer anyway.

Delicious steak sammy, great truffle fries, awesome beer, and a good logo. Steve, the waiter, was on point. Can't go wrong here. A+

Great food, brews, service and live music. I come for work trips and will definitely visit again.

Unbelievable food!!! Great service and atmosphere! Fantastic menu! A wonderful addition to downtown Elkhart and the river walk is beautiful!!