Brouwer's Cafe

"Brouwer’s looks like it could host a medieval jousting tournament, which automatically makes it a good place to do a lot of drinking. But we wouldn’t tell you to come here just because of the random gargoyle above the bar - the menu has everything from Belgian beer to Austrian beer to English beer to German beer to American beer. Also, the french fries are really f*cking good." - aimee rizzo

"Brouwer’s is where you go to eat too many Belgian fries and drink steins and steins of beer. The stone walls and gargoyles on the balcony make the place feel like a castle dungeon you actually want to be in. Come for a first date or with the crew, and put the bourbon dragon sauce on everything you order." - aimee rizzo

"After a staggering 19 years in business, Fremont’s Brouwer’s Cafe announced its imminent closure on May 24." - Meg van Huygen

"Entering Brouwer’s in Fremont is like stepping into Medieval Times, but the bar is way better and you don’t have to eat a half-chicken with your hands, watch a jousting tournament, or spend even one minute in New Jersey. Also, everyone inside is aware that it’s the 21st century, so nobody will say things to you like “ye olde” and “What is Instagram?” But Brouwer’s does feel like a tavern, with stone walls and hanging lamps, and nobody cares how loud you’re shouting across the table. There’s never usually a wait, the scotch selection is great, and their excellent pomme frites are a non-negotiable, especially with different sauces for dunking. Kick it here with friends for a birthday, stay until last call, or pay the check early and keep drinking at The Barrel Thief down the block." - Aimee Rizzo

"A rainy day in Seattle can make you feel like you’re trapped in a castle dungeon. If you want to make this vision a little more of a reality, have some drinks at Brouwer’s Cafe, which has darkness and gargoyles, but also the Feel Good Factor™. There are many beers and ciders on tap, there’s a massive collection of scotch, and you can order some of the best charcuterie boards, soft pretzels, and fries in the city. Fail to get the bourbon dragon sauce for dipping, and we’ll find a real castle dungeon to toss you in." - aimee rizzo