Fifth Ward Brewing Company

I think back of my previous life and think about where a one hour drive would get me. I've done one hour drives and longer just to do a day trip of tasting beer in an area away from me, but it feels like the drive to Oshkosh takes longer than it really does. Maybe it's the lack of exciting scenery or traffic between the two points. Maybe I'm too anxious these days. With a first stop at Fifth Ward, anyone would be anxious to arrive.

Fifth Ward has a modest parking lot on their property, but get filled up fast during busy times, however street parking is adequate and nearby. The tasting room features a long stretched bar with small tables up against the wall, a popcorn machine with the food complimentary, large visible screens rotating between the beer menu (also in print at the bar), and a window looking into the brewhouse. Sunday at 1pm, jam packed for a quiz; I had never seen it so busy here before. The brewhouse was open with overflow tables, and those were needed this visit. I'm beginning to think crowded Sundays are the norm. If they can turn down the volume of the quizmaster, I could hear my thoughts of the beer!

Healthy beer selection with quality stuff; two dozen selections from tap and can, hitting the likes of 1869 Blonde Ale, Game Time Premium Ale, Hades' Secret Mint Porter, Buffalo Plaid Scotch Ale, Tangerine Dream , Summer Fruit Stand Sour, Absolutely Aggro Double IPA, and a few strong barrel aged selections. You have a few options for serving size; I like to order 10 ounces because it gives me a change to get to know a beer while being able to try another. Quality on paper is an easy 4 to 4.25, but one of my glasses was covered in scratches; that hadn't happened before in the past here, like finding a needle in a haystack.

Three servers at the bar, service was quick despite the crowd, and my previous times I've had good talks with the staff. It helps add to the experience of Fifth Ward, and is a worthy visit between Green Bay and the west Milwaukee burbs.