Reds Alehouse

One Ale of a Time

The way I see it, there are three kinds of people. 1) People who don’t like beer. 2) People who think they only like nationally known light beers. 3) People who love beer and are always interested in trying something new. No matter which of these categories you fall into, Reds Alehouse has the knowledge and variety to find a brew for you.

General Managers Matthew Swift and Cory Kent train the staff on the different styles and brands of beer. If you’re looking to try something you’ve never had, start by telling your waiter things you know you like: beer, wine or food. The staff will translate that knowledge into a beer choice you’re sure to enjoy.

Owner Faye Swift believes most people can find a beer they like. She even confesses to having been a “wine person” before she experienced the wide variety of flavors that beer has to offer. The restaurant’s attention to the bubbly beverage is evident in its menu, extensive selection of beers and special events. Currently there are 18 brews on tap, over 35 bottled beers and plans to expand that selection in the future.?
Everyone knows different wines compliment certain types of food. Reds Alehouse has taken that concept and applied it to beer. Kitchen manager Tyler Leiss puts together biweekly specials including appetizers, flatbreads, entrees and desserts. Each item has a suggested complementing brew so the customer can experience the complexity and play of the beer and the food together.

The regular menu isn’t the ordinary sports bar variety. It is full of fresh and unique American-fusion entrees. International influences can be seen in the delicious flatbreads, distinct salads and gourmet sandwiches. The main entrees include mouth-watering New York strip, baked salmon picatta and spicy peanut chicken.

Earlier this year, Reds Alehouse hosted a prix fixe signature beer dinner for 30 guests. Each of the five-courses was paired with a complimenting beer. The dinner ended with handmade chocolate truffles paired with Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock. Matthew Swift said he is planning to have more signature beer dinners in the future.

Other plans for the future of the alehouse include beer flights, group beer tastings, a beer festival and beer encyclopedias on each table. Even though the focus has been on the brews, the food and atmosphere have definitely not been forgotten.

The newly opened patio is elegant without being pretentious. The 84-inch gas fire ring, speakers disguised as rocks and spacious layout make it a relaxing and fun place to hang out. Reds Alehouse has hosted live music events in the past. Faye Swift says she’s also open to holding private events including wedding receptions and reunions on the patio.

If the Swifts can’t convince you to try a beer, they have a fully stocked bar and a drink menu with 11 martinis. The bar is one-of-a-kind, handcrafted by a carpenter from West Liberty. The dark, sleek wood goes well with the retro yet chic interior. Nostalgic checkered floors and red leather booths mingle nicely with the more contemporary lighting and a black granite fireplace.

Next time you’re in the area, stop into Reds Alehouse, choose an appetizing meal and let the staff help you pick a brew you’ve never tried. Enjoy your selections on the patio with your spouse or inside watching the game with a group of friends. Either way, the night is sure to be “One Ale of a Time.”