Usually “Toxic” means something bad. Not in this case, Daytonians. We know a place where Toxic means ‘heavenly.’
Are you a beer lover? Then loosen your tie, let your hair down, and walk down the cobblestone streets of the Oregon District to the Toxic Brew Company.
For the past few months, The Food Adventure Crew has been visiting Toxic Brew Company and getting a feel for the range, style and taste of their beers. We tried the spectrum over time, from the lighter Abby Blonde to the Pawn Pepper Ale made with hot peppers.
We didn’t go there once and get a few taste test cups and write about them.. Taste tester flights??? Come on..
Grab yourself a pint so you get the full effect of the brewers intentions.
Now you will get the full scoop after months of tough research.. uh yeah :
HERE’S THE SKINNY:
— They brew their own beer, and they are serious about it. Friendly brewing fanatics unite! You can often hear high brow brewing conversations between staff, brewmasters and customers.
— Located at 431 E. Fifth Street, Hours of Operation are 3pm-12pm Tues-Sat and 1pm-11pm on Sundays
— There is no Food Menu, (unless you count popcorn), so don’t come hungry for a Food Adventure
— Open, inviting atmosphere. You can usually find the front door open and people milling around inside and outside. We also love the sawdust shuffleboard table which creates and occasional cheer.
— No wimpy beers. What we mean, is that each beer has a strong flavor, so be warned. Beer enthusiasts love strong beers or hoppy flavors. If your favorite beer is Mich Ultra, please realize that Toxic Brews may be an acquired taste.
— Super-friendly Staff. One of the most accommodating group of bartenders we have met. Visit, after visit, after visit, they are always attentive and helpful.
So which beers are the best?
Drum roll please…. here are your Toxic Brewing company “Must Drinks.”
MUST DRINKS:
— ABBY’S CURE: A favorite toxic treat, it is simply a good beer. Light, spicy and a kick in the alcohol department, like most of their strong brews. Get a couple pints and feel the buzz. We believe Abby’s cure is just what the doctor ordered for your beer fix. This beer is actually a Belgian Tripel (strong ale) and has a special yeast strain that gives it a one of a kind flavor.
— ORANGE IMPERIAL STOUT: This flavorful, dark beer is in the style of and old Russian Stout (dark beer from roasted hops with a higher alcohol content). Toxic Brewing Company hits the mark on this one. We highly recommend it. A good beer for a brisk day, or a cool evening. Again we say, strong stuff! About 8% alcohol for you booze hounds.
— FIFTH STREET WHEAT: The Big Ragu’s pick of the Toxic litter. In our many stops, he found this one to be the most delicious. This Hefewiezen (German wheat beer) is sometimes offered with a lemon infusion during the summer. If you get a chance, try that on for size.
— ABBY BRUNETTE: The Big Ragu is a big fan of this beer. This is beer is smooth and has hints of caramel and nut flavors. Apparently, Abby is the Brewmaster’s wife. It’s times like these where we say “Ain’t love grand?”
— BETA BROWN: The original test batch recipe, with a strong addictive flavor. Goes down too easy, so watch yourself on this lovable middle of the road beer. You may find yourself slurring words and telling stories with TMI.
Honorable Mention: Iso-Heaven and the Vanilla Pale Ale are worthy of recommendation. We will down a couple of pints of these bad boys, any day.
The problem with recommending our ‘must drinks’, is that the beer menu at Toxic Brewery is constantly evolving. Some of these beers may only be offered once a year. But that is a good thing, because the menu does not get tired or stagnant. The ideas and beer list improvements are as fresh as the brews.
So next time you’re drinking responsibly in the Oregon District, or drinking irresponsibly with a designated driver, make sure you enter the open doors of the Toxic Brew Company and “pick your poison.” Just do us a favor and don’t get those dinky sipper flights… Make it a pint, Food Adventure style!
Do us another favor, join the masses on Facebook who “like” our Food Adventure page HERE.
Check out photos below and comment to let us know your favorite Toxic Brews!!!
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