The Runaway Micropub and Nanobrewery

One of two breweries in Burlington (and they're within walking distance of each other), I prefer The Runaway of the two. It might be the surrounding street which it is on; the street is off the main road and is quieter with traffic. I walked in and found a tasting room which had a rustic feel with a clean interior, an "L" shaped bar in the middle of the action, and spotted around both little and tall tables. I didn't go in back to see the beer garden, I was too busy soaking in the vibe of the room. The beer menu is posted next to the bar as well as printed on little paper menu found at each table and the bar.

Around ten different beers pouring, and with Oktoberfest listed as an event being celebrated by the Runaway with a few beers attempting the fit the theme. Akkordeon Pilnser and Oktoberfest fit the theme, but Red IPA's do not. Overall an intriguing beer menu with a blonde ale, kettle sour, Belgian IPA, Oatmeal Stout, Imperial Saison, IPA, Hazy IPA, and my first full encounter with a Grodziskie (that was refreshing, thanyouverymuch). Akkordeon Pilsner was a let down; almost no CO2 bubbles in it to where it could have received certification as being carbon neutral. I let the team know about this problem and there was an attempt to fix the problem at the tap, now with slightly more bubbles (though still underpowered to my expectations). Most pours are 16 ounces and I saw five different pieces of glassware used for their full pours; I love seeing different vessels to hold each beer.

The best part of the visit was the service and hospitality at the bar. With each new customer who came into the brewery for a drink, it seemed the bartender knew each of their names. In addition to the beer, there's a small cocktail list plus a handful of soft drinks to along with a limited menu of foodstuffs made with provisions from around Burlington, which I found to be quite thoughtful.

The Runaway is a quaint little brewery and an interesting visit. It's a lot closer than it looks on the map if you decide to make a long trip out here.

Located on a narrow street full of shops, The Runaway is a small space under a striped red awning, tin ceilings inside with a small bar for 8-10 in the center. A shaded patio out back and a lot of tables packed in. It was a little too crowded and unmasked for me personally, so we didn’t linger long.

They brew an interesting mix of styles, including a Grätzer and Schwarzbier. About ten drafts, with a wide variety.

The bartender insisted on table service, and had to take the long way around the bar constantly to serve the tables. An access door on the front side would save much time and steps. It was busy, so it took some time to get beers, and they were rushed but still friendly.

Overall it was a good experience, and i’d return to try more of their rotating selections. Burlington makes a nice little weekend getaway, several options in town like Low Daily and Fred's burgers, plus it's not far from Milwaukee/Racine/Kenosha/Chicago.