BDB Rating 85
This place was just cool. We selected Half Full since we were traveling along I-95 (as so many hockey families do on weekends) and saw it was only a few minutes off the highway and had decent ratings. After passing some nice condos we became a bit sceptical as we turned in to an industrial area that was poorly lit. There was no signage for Half Full until we pulled up to the front door. It still seemed suspect until we walked inside. At the entrance you are elevated above the entire seating area. Great vantage point to the see the layout and scope out seats (forgot to ask if there is a wheelchair accessible entrance). Although you are sub-ground level, they did a great job with the decor to yield a colorful and earthy feel. It was only 2 of us so we sat at the bar and met Sam. She was fantastic! Super knowledgeable about the history of Half Full, how they've continue to broaden their beer offering (even worked with another local brewery) and was very proud of their great improvement in the quality of their beers over the years. Sam set us up with flights and they were great. She was happy to share some other samples with us. The place wasn't very busy...we were told their Beer Garden at Mill River Park actually drives more traffic (will try to check that out next time). So the slowness of the place allowed us to learn more about HF, found out Sam also played ice hockey and she had time to give us a tour of the brewery. They have a sweet canning line.
Back to the beer...we said it was very good. Flight of 4-5oz pours - $12. Their flagship beers are Beacon - NEIPA and Bright - Blonde Ale. Both were delicious. We even got a 6-pk of Beacon to-go. We tried ever beer on the menu and they were all good to great. Note they do offer a few wines and cider so not just for craft beer nuts. Probably our absolute favorite was the Bourbon Barrel Aged Rise & Shine. Rise & Shine was very good but the subtle bourbon flavor add to the complexity of the taste without overpowering it. We had to get a crowler of this to-go as well.
Overall this is a great place for a small to maybe medium size group to sample some excellent beers. They don't have food options so plan accordingly. And if you are lucky enough to have Sam as your bartender, you'll have a great time.
