In the summer of 2014 I embarked on a culinary tour of Chicago which would have me visiting America’s mecca for craft beer. I enjoyed a sud-sloshed pilgrimage to Goose Island Brewpub at the very moment when local football fans were on the edge of their seats roaring at the World Cup final match.
Toronto beer lovers can now visit Goose Island’s recently launched flagship Canadian concept Goose Island Brewhouse, which pays homage to the Chicago Fulton Street Tap Room via black and white subway tiles, wooden bar top and barrel stave wall which utilizes barrels once used in aging past Goose Island brews.
The Goose Island Brewhouse is located at the corner of Church Street and the Esplanade and features two stellar patio spaces perfect for pleasing yourself with a froth-topped pint.
Step inside and you’ll find a retail store where those keen to pick up fresh brew can grab a goose embossed growler and fill up on what’s fresh. The casual dining room is surrounded by a choir of tanks, managed by recent Montreal transplant Bern Priest who acts as Head Brewer. Priest is looking forward to creating exciting beer paired dinners, weekly specials, and seasonal menus that showcase Goose Island Brewhouse’s desire to bring the hospitality and flavour influence of Chicago to Torontonians.
Hop up at the bar and you’ll find 9 in-house originals and 3 classics worth sipping through. If you’re feeling peckish whip your finger through a petite menu (prepared by the neighbouring kitchen at Bier Market) which features a decadent pretzel, roasted brussels, cheese and charcuterie topped board and Chef Shawn Jackson’s drool-worthy Rueben.
Beer Flight | Allora raspberry table beer, Cult Classic munich dunkel, Midnight Oil coffee porter, Mantis double ipa
Bern ‘The Brewer’s’ Sharing Board | 18 month prosciutto di parma, bier-cured pastrami salmon, crispy brussel sprouts, pacific rock cheese & bavarian pretzels, pickle jar, house-made mustard
Low & Slow Reuben Sandwich | house cured brisket, sauerkraut, swiss cheese, russian dressing, house-made mustard on light rye.
