Mills River Brewery

Large sheet steel warehouse building on the south side of town. Spacious open taproom with narrow U-shaped bar that seats about 30, with table about the room and on the back patio. 10 beers on tap. Friendly service. I did not try the food.

 

Visited here with Da Boss for lunch and some music after on 6-5-22.

Vibe of the place was outstanding with a big spacious indoor seating area, i would guess fit around 100 or so. Bar area was set up to take both beer and food orders for their partner food truck kitchen Juju's which is a permanent resident. No seating at the bar from what i recall. The best part is the outdoor area, which has ample picnic table seating, perhaps 25-50 tables. Plenty of room for kids to run around and dogs to hang out. Looking from the indoor area to the music stage, which is situated about 25 feet above up a slope that is tree covered - pretty much captures the essence of western NC! There is music live several times over the weekend (not sure about weekdays) with quality touring and regional mainstays. Unfortunately, Da Boss was not feeling well so we had to leave before the music started at 2:00.

Quality of the beer was good to very good. I was surprised how good the Czech Pils was, very authentic with a spot-on peppery hop bite. Also had the Mosaic IPA which was true to the style with a tropical citrus flavor and piney hop bite.

Service i am struggling with as there were only two servers for a three-front area, so it was very slow. And then you essentially there is a 20 percent gratuity added for the pleasure of standing in line for 20 minutes for a second beer. Granted they were nice and knowledgeable but still i find it gulling when faced with these scenarios (self-serve and big tip expected). But this is the stinking Covid reality where folks do not want to do this type of work like yesteryear!

Selection of beer was solid as there were 10 house beers, 7 cocktails, cider and seltzers, and 7 wines offered. So you can imagine how long a fancy cocktail takes to construct!

Food from Juju's was very good. I had the balsamic bacon bleu cheese burger which was excellent. Da Boss had the Asian Chicken salad which was pretty good, but plenty of chicken.

Overall a very good experience. Neighbors always praise this place and take their visitors there as part of "the tour" they give friends and family. Look forward to going back, especially if more service is available!

4/27/22 We were able to hit this brewery after hiking the falls in Dupont.

A hulking metal building in the middle of nowhere. Upon entering you're just wowed by the size and beauty of the place. Incredible atmosphere inside and out! Tons of seating, friendly staff, and great offerings! Enjoyed several beers and Leah had the cucumber sage margarita -The best she's ever had! Inviting outside seating with great lighting, and dog friendly as well with large wooded area sprinkled with picnic tables, dog water bowls and LOTS of running room for kids.

Highly recommend this place!