Gregory B.
Yelp
How did I choose my first brewery in Asheville? The one closest to the hotel. Duh! :P
For reference, I am focusing on the place, service, and beer, as I did not have any food.
I was impressed with Hillman. A brewery with food, although I did not partake, a great space and good beer.
Atmosphere? Hillman is very chill in nature. This is likely because it is not so south slope in nature (see other reviews of breweries). There is plenty of space, both indoors and outdoors. For outdoors, there is a window, so you don't even have to step foot in the place to get a brew and food. Very clean place, with a nice bar, albeit a bit smaller.
Staff? Had a great time talking with the manager, who I let pick my flight, and a couple of beertenders. Very friendly.
Beer? Also impressive. I won't say the very top of the breweries I tried in Asheville, but a great line up. I had the ESB, the Double Back Assward( double NEIPA), the English Barley Wine, and the Biere de Garde. My two favorites were the double NEIPA and the Biere de Garde. I picked up a Maker's Mark barrel aged porter for an upcoming bottle share. I hope I don't have to explain that pick. :D
As I mentioned, I did not try the food. I see some saying the food is the low point, but I have nothing to add. The guy next to me got a burger and it looked and smelled nice. Brioche bun, pimento cheese, and the normal salad accoutrements (they also have cheddar, swiss and blue cheese for cheese options and make their own veggie patties, if you go vegetarian.
In summary, a nice place to grab a brew, and maybe something to eat. Definitely far more slow paced than the breweries on the south slope. I would definitely go again.