What are the most popular brewery menu items?

Mar 27, 2024 | 5 min read

Brewery restaurants have become a staple in the culinary world, offering a unique blend of casual dining with a touch of artisanal flair, primarily due to their handcrafted beers and complementary food items. Popular brewery menu items tend to be hearty, comforting, and designed to pair well with a variety of beers. From traditional pub fare to innovative dishes that fuse global cuisines, these menu options cater to a wide audience, including families, food enthusiasts, and beer aficionados. Whether it's for dine-in, delivery, or a special brunch, brewery restaurants have curated menus that appeal to all.

Beer-battered fish and chips

Beer-battered fish and chips embody the quintessential brewery restaurant experience, combining the crisp, rich flavors of beer batter with the tender, flaky texture of fish, typically cod. This dish's popularity extends beyond its traditional roots, appealing to a broad demographic for its comforting familiarity and its perfect pairing with a cold pint. Variations like beer-battered fish tacos and sandwiches offer a handheld twist on the classic, catering to a more casual dining experience or even delivery. For the younger crowd or families dining in, kid-friendly versions ensure everyone at the table can enjoy a taste of this beloved dish.

Brewery burger

The brewery burger stands out for its versatility and ability to cater to a wide range of preferences, making it a favorite among patrons of all ages. With options ranging from the classic tavern burger to the innovative birria burger, these burgers are celebrated for their rich, bold flavors that harmonize with the brewery's craft beers. The inclusion of vegetarian options like the Beyond™ Burger ensures that everyone has a satisfying choice. The build-your-own burger concept further personalizes the dining experience, allowing guests to tailor their meal to their exact liking, whether dining in or ordering for delivery.

Pretzel bites with beer cheese dip

Pretzel bites with beer cheese dip offer a communal, snackable option that perfectly encapsulates the brewery restaurant's ethos of sharing and experimentation. Classic Bavarian pretzel bites, paired with a robust beer cheese dip, provide a satisfyingly salty and creamy combination that's popular for group dining or as a starter. Variations like garlic Parmesan pretzel bites introduce an aromatic twist, while options like beer battered cheese curds expand the menu's appeal. These bites are a hit for both dine-in and delivery, appealing to those seeking a comforting, casual nibble that pairs excellently with a range of beers.

Bratwurst with sauerkraut

Bratwurst with sauerkraut is a nod to the traditional German roots of brewery culture, offering a hearty and flavorful option that resonates with beer lovers. This dish's popularity stems from its robust flavors and the comforting combination of savory sausage with tangy sauerkraut, making it a favorite for meals that require something filling and satisfying. Alternative options like the bratwurst sandwich or the currywurst introduce variety to the menu, catering to those looking for a handheld option or a spicy twist. This dish's versatility makes it popular for both dine-in and delivery, appealing to a wide audience seeking a taste of traditional brewery fare.

Beer-braised short ribs

Beer-braised short ribs are a testament to the depth of flavor that can be achieved by incorporating beer into the cooking process. This dish is celebrated for its tender, fall-off-the-bone meat that's been slow-cooked in beer, offering a rich and caramelized flavor profile. Options like short rib sliders or short rib poutine highlight the dish's versatility, making it suitable for appetizers, main courses, or even brunch offerings like the short rib benedict. These variations ensure that beer braised short ribs appeal to a broad spectrum of diners, from those seeking a gourmet dining experience to patrons looking for a comforting, hearty meal that pairs well with beer.

Ale-battered onion rings

Ale battered onion rings are a crispy, flavorful twist on a classic side dish, elevating the humble onion ring to a must-have brewery restaurant staple. By incorporating ale into the batter, these onion rings offer a unique flavor that compliments the craft beers on offer. Options like hand battered or homemade onion rings appeal to those seeking artisanal, made-from-scratch dishes. For an international flair, variations like onion pakora introduce global flavors to the menu. Whether served as a side, a shareable appetizer, or a standalone snack, ale battered onion rings are popular for their satisfying crunch and versatility, making them a favorite for both dine-in and delivery.

Brewery pizza

Brewery pizza merges the casual, communal spirit of brewery dining with the universal appeal of pizza, offering a range of options to cater to diverse tastes. From spicy Buffalo chicken pizza to the smoky flavors of BBQ pizza, each variation is designed to pair seamlessly with the brewery's beer selection. Vegetarian options like the gourmet veggie pizza ensure inclusivity, while meat-heavy choices cater to those looking for a more indulgent meal. The innovative birria pizza showcases the menu's creativity, appealing to adventurous diners. Brewery pizza's popularity spans dine-in and delivery, offering something for everyone, whether they're in the mood for a classic or something new and exciting.

The information presented in this article is based on a comprehensive study of Otter’s internal menu data for breweries, and does not represent a guarantee.

Mar 27, 2024 | 5 min read

About Otter

Otter helps your restaurant business grow. Here a few of our key results:
  • Increase revenue up to 10% with Marketing*
  • Reduce storefront downtime by up to 50% with Live Alerts*
  • Increase sales up to 50% with Digital Dine-In's QR code ordering*
  • Reduce missed orders to less than 1% with Order Manager's Auto-Accept feature*
  • Supercharge your food business with our all-in-one restaurant POS system*
* Results based on typical Otter customer performance

DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only and the content does not constitute an endorsement. Otter does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, images/graphics, links, or other content contained within the content. We recommend that you consult with financial, legal, and business professionals for advice specific to your situation.

Request a demo

Subscribe to the monthly newsletter →