So the closest bar to my house is a 99, not the worst chain the world, but I was expecting to have to drink something from Sam Adams at best for the Bruins game last night since I don't get NBC Sports network at home. I was a little shocked to find both Clown Shoes Clementine and Slumbrew Flag Raiser on tap. Not enough to make them into a real beer bar, but with decidely low expectations that made me very happy. Nice to see a chain adding to their local tap list.
A good result of craft beer´s growth is that it's more accessible. The Bickfords near me even has a respectable beer selection. I can count on most restos & bars in the Boston area to have at least 1 thing I don't mind drinking nowadays.
Lots of chains have a least a couple of craft options now. It's a nice change if I find myself caught at one, which I do occasionally because my wife if a fan of certain chains.
Don't you just love when you get a pleasant surprise like that? I went to the Four's and they had Long Trail Limo on tap which took me by surprise. Nice to see craft options at these places.
I've never been in a 99 even though there are 2 near me. Plymouth and Pembroke. Might have to give em a try.
Last year or so my wife and I were meeting my in-laws with young children at Red Robin, and it seemed like a good choice because of the kids. I figured I could at least get a Sam Adams seasonal or the like. Imagine my surprise when they had Wormtown Be Hoppy flowing on draft. Very pleasant surprise.
For a chain Buffalo Wild Wings usually has a good draft list. Last time I was at one they also had Be Hoppy, which made me Hoppy.
Specifically it sounds like this is more a reflection of the popularity of the IPA. Most places realize IPAs sell, and not just Harpoon IPA.
