DC Oakes Brewhouse & Eatery

Lively brewpub/ sports bar on the east side of town in small shopping/ dining plaza. Large modern building with a zig-zag bar that seats about 15 on the right side of the entry with many tables and booths filling the room, plus a large upstairs balcony dining area and a small outdoor patio on the left. Place was packed on Saturday afternoon for college football, but they happily accomadated me with one tv for the Yankee game. A dozen beers on tap, half theirs and half guest. I had their IPA and Horse & Dragons' Sad Panda Stout, both were very nice. Fast, friendly bartenders. I had the mushroom avocado burger and it was excellent. Great place to grab a beer and a bite while you watch the game... note bar seats fill fast.

 

i have heard a lot of good things about these guys, but have been unable to make it in until now. its a cool space, new and big, got an almost upscale corporate feel, with some televisions at the huge and irregular bar, and some cool booth seating around the lodge feeling space, lots of pretty girls in service, and a rather big list of beers that included some cool colorado guest drafts as well. i could not see any brewing equipment, but was assured its all made in house here. i really loved their almond coconut porter, tons of real nut character to it in a creamy feeling low alcohol package. the hoppy lager was less impressive, i think i wanted more from the laurel hops, they called it recreational use, but it wasnt weedy to me. a little heavy and strong for the style too, but for the most part the beer and the vibe were quite professional. i didnt have time to eat here, and i didnt get to look at a menu or even see food come out of the kitchen, but it all smelled pretty appetizing and the vibe was good enough to come back to check it out sometime. neat that they had some pretty ambitious beers on, but the guy next to me at the bar was slinging bud light drafts, maybe an attempt to make this place not too nerdy and for everyone, especially in this part of town, but thats never what i expect at a brewery taproom. in my short little session here i enjoyed the beers, the service, and the energy, and i will be back to go a little deeper next time. cool that fort collins can support so many breweries now, wow!