BDB Rating 82
We really enjoyed the simplicity of Iron Tug. The tasting room isn't large but yet inviting with the 4 long sturdy communal tables. We were a small group as others opted not to attend as the food menu seemed limited...could be due to a smaller space = smaller kitchen. Nonetheless, we had great service by the bartender. She was knowledgeable about the beers but not the Rochester brewery scene as it seems she was relatively new to the area. We got flights and took her lead. She said the year round is Fathom Lines NEIPA so we had to try it...as well as the DDH Pale Ale and Lighthouse IPA. BBA Imperial Milk Stout completed the flight. For our palate Fathom Lines was the favorite....no wonder it is available year round. The milk stout was ok. It was a nice chance of pace and we enjoyed it but doubt it would stand out among others in its class. Lighthouse and the Pale Ale were solid but not remarkable. This was such a nice, clean and relaxing place that we enjoyed our time here. They had some board games and we were happy they had all the pieces for Connect4. This would be a great stop if you are hitting a few breweries in Rochester for a weekend. Not the keystone brewery but a great supporting one.
Big Bonus: kudos for serving free, freshly popped popcorn. It really enhanced the beer by giving us something to nimble on between samples.
