Recommended pubs/brewpubs near Worcester MA

For me there is only one place out that way, Armsby Abbey (Worcester). Outstanding food and equally impressive draft and bottle list. Enjoy!

 

Armsby Abbey in Worcester is your best option. Honestly it should be the only place on your list. But, if that doesn't appeal to you (maybe you want more causal dining), Rail Trail in Hudson is excellent as well. And if you're in Hudson Medusa brewing is right there. They only serve some bar snacks but you can bring food in.

The Pint in Worcester typically has a solid beer list but the food is minimal, The Fix or Brew City in Worcester also usually have solid beer and burgers.

 

I always enjoy a stop at Wormtown when I'm in Worcester. Right off of 290, solid beers. Maybe stop for a quick pint there before getting grub at Armsby?

 

If you've already had your fill of food, Dive Bar is always a nice option. I believe it's run by the same owners who made Armsby what it is today. Definitely a different (more relaxed, hipster gritty) vibe than Armsby, but the taplist always has some great NEIPA options as well as a general handful of fun beers from quality breweries. It's for sure a dive bar in the sense that the corners of the room are swallowed by darkness and dimmed lighting, but that's kind of what draws me in. No pressure to sit up straight and jot down tasting notes. Just slouch into your seat and drink some good beer. Bartenders are always great there, too.

 

Can't believe I totally glossed over dive bar. But yeah as far as I know they are run by the same people as Armsbey. Also, I'm pretty sure they have a food truck in their beer garden out back.

 

Dive Bar is great as well, but it all comes down to the OP's timing since the Dive Bar doesn't open until 6 pm (M-Sa).

 

If Worcester doesn’t interest you and you are looking for something close off of 495 I would suggest ordering a Railtrail flatbread or a steak and cheese from TC Lando’s and eating it at Medusa in Hudson.

Railtrail’s taplist is pretty solid too if you want to eat there.

 

My vote is for Hudson too. Breaks up your trip nicely and has a few options for drafts. Rail Trail for a meal and beer; Medusa for another beer; and Microcreamery for dessert. You could even visit the Horseshoe again if you are feeling nostalgic.

 

I'll throw my lot in with the Armsby Abbey people. Really good food, and a great tap list. Plus, for us in MA, this place and Dive Bar are the only places we can get Hill Farmstead on tap.

 

So inquiring minds want to know, #1 how'd you like Spencer, and #2, where did you go afterwards?

 

You did it right both times! Prosit!