Bell Tower Brewing Co.

Brewery in an old church, incorporating the architectural features into the design. Medium sized bar, tables, private rooms and loft seating. Full food menu, what I ordered was excellent. Tap list favors Belgian styles, 17 taps offers plenty to choose from. Bustling, lively atmosphere. Good service. Worth a visit

Taking a detour from the bike path parallel to the Cuyahoga just down the road on a beautiful Saturday morning, I pulled up to this literal cathedral and saw ample outdoor seating right by the bike rack, which is just what convinced me to hop off and come on in. Intending to do my worship outside so I could watch my bike--seeing as I did not bring a lock--I told the hostess I would order at the bar.

The interior is thoroughly repurposed, indeed. From top to bottom and side to side, it's a beautiful, damn near high-end remodel they did here. Considering that I've patronized my fair share of brewery-repurposed churches, they did really well managing to make it quieter and less cacophonous than any cathedral I've been in. That, in concert with the overall aesthetic, verges the interior closer to a hip restaurant vibe as opposed to the less formal beer hall I was expecting. The overhaul is quite impressive, but then also a little awkward being by myself on my first visit. It's almost romantic, with soft pastel earth tones, cushioned barstools under a backlit bartop, larger wooden tables, and even private booths--there's a seat for every party type.

While it was a pretty mellow morning on the customer front, it took them a long minute to take my order, pour my beer and close my tab. I was just here for a one and done carb load before jumping back on the trail, but it seemed the waitstaff had little experience with folks like me. I received some funny looks when I took my seat outside, and was even approached a bit discourteously as if unwelcome. I got the feeling that the patio was reserved for hostess seating only, thus I felt pressured to work through my schwarzbier rather hurriedly, even though it was not busy at all. The schwarz was a passable take on the style, but I might have enjoyed it a little more in peace. Next time I'll be sure not to come by myself, perhaps bringing the family for a full meal, as that seems like the sort of customer they'd prefer, which is fine, but surely turns off a lot of easy money.