Build it and they will come. That’s what the owners of Willoughby’s new craft brewery were hoping for when they constructed an airy, two-story, 8,000-square-foot building that can seat up to 300. With a food menu focused around classic American dishes with a twist and a 10-barrel brewing system, the 11-month-old spot has been hopping since Day One. Brewer Larry W. Hazen, who previously worked at the now-defunct Crooked River Brewing Co. in Cleveland and Stone Brewing Co. in Escondido, California, loves to experiment with wacky and intriguing flavors such as the Thai’d 2 the Tracks ($5 for 16 ounces), a Belgian-style ale brewed with Thai lemon grass, and Holding a Pear ($5.50 for 16 ounces), a blonde ale with subtle hints of pear and vanilla. With fun options like this, it’s easy to see why so many people make this their go-to weekend spot. Our Pick: Drink in fall with Hazen’s take on pumpkin beers. The Nightmare on Erie Street ($6 for 16 ounces), made with roasted pumpkin, is rich and robust with just a touch of cinnamon.
3941 Erie St., Willoughby, 440-306-8183, brimbrewery.com
