Liar's Bench - Portsmouth NH

Yea, my wife, baby and I went opening day after work that Friday. Decent crowd and set up and right around the corner from my neighborhood in Portsmouth. The beer was tasty but compared to some of the big names in this area it was nothing extra special. The IPA tasted good, reminded me a bit of Stoneface.

They need to get some more beers out there and have a bit more face time before I can make a decision. The set up was kinda cool, very open and the big tables were nice. Cool spot to chill out and certainly baby friendly as there were tons of babies and kids there that day including my 6 month old.

One issue that stands out to me is the location. While its close to downtown, outside of locals no one really ventures into that part of town without a reason. There won't be much regular foot traffic. I firmly believe this was part of the reason the craft beer cellar went out of business. If I were them I would work very hard to pump out some beers that can generate some serious hype to drive people to want to see your brewery and get beer. Otherwise people with stick to downtown on trips and will always want to keep further north given the distribution laws in ME/NH. It's very hard to convince someone to head out of town down that road just to go to a small brewery that doesn't jump out at you off the street. I'm also curious how long until the plumbing company starts to complain about traffic in the parking lot.

 

I'll add they are super friendly and a really nice group, I wish them the best!

 

Portsmouth's West End is on the up and up. We've got new traffic patterns, rustic directional signs, a street food restaurant, organic pet stores, and (soon to be) two new breweries. People will come to the West End...it's New Hampshire's Brooklyn after all: http://portsmouthwestend.com/portsmouth-west-end-is-the-brooklyn-hood-of-nh/

JT, a Portsmouth West Ender.

 

That new pattern idea is bending my mind to be honest. I just don't see need for it.

 

I completely agree. White Heron has the most dangerous patio in town, there are signal flags for a cross walk and you can't get over to turn right on red by the bike shop now. This thread is totally going off the rails. I'll stop so we can go back to Liar's Bench. I'm glad to have them in my neighborhood.

 

Agreed, I'd just like for them to be in business for the long haul!

 

I lived just around the corner on Dover Street about 12 years ago and used to rent from the owner of the plumbing company. Will have to check this place out next time I'm in town.

 

Went opening day. Honestly they have a killer lineup. All traditional beers you normally would not see on tap with the current hazy IPA, BA stout, sour craze. One of the best ESB's and Kolsh's I've had in awhile. Their style remind me of Half Acre. Very light, dry, and food friendly beers. Looking forward to more from them.

 

Stopped in last weekend. Decent lineup for their initial opening.

Nothing blew me away. The kolsch was the best beer available. I think the IPA had potential and I'm guessing they'll tweak their abilities based on their comfortability on their new system.

Overall, cool spot (I like the location as it's easy to get to/park) since it's close to my house.