Shoreline Brewery, Michigan City

I'm going to qualify these comments with a disclaimer - I am not a big fan of the typical brew pub. Sure they were great, about 15 years ago, before they could be found in every suburban strip mall. Success breeds copycats and, for the most part, if you've seen one brew pub, you've seen them all.

That somewhat cynical view was rocked a bit this week when I ran across the Shoreline Brewery in Michigan City, Indiana. Shoreline is housed in a beautifully renovated 1850-something warehouse near the coast of Lake Michigan. I meandered in at an odd hour, around 2:30 in the afternoon, and was greeted warmly by the staff who invited me to belly up to the bar to sample a few of their beers. A chalkboard (pictured) listed 10 different offerings. I sampled several and was impressed by all of them. One that struck a particular chord was the Smokestack, a porter made with malt that has been lightly smoked prior to the brewing process. The smokiness doesn't shout, it barely whispers. I decided to take a half gallon to go. I have plans this weekend for a cookout featuring a slow-smoked pork shoulder. I think the Smokestack will be a great accompaniment. I'll let you know.

I did not eat, but did get a chance to look at a menu. It looks as interesting as the beer. Here are a few of the most intriguing selections. The appetizers include a Fried Green Tomato Napoleon which is breaded in panko bread crumbs and layered with horseradish mayo. Even the burgers feature an unexpected flair - toasted pretzel bread instead of a standard bun. Their beers make their way onto the menu in great-sounding dished like the Oatmeal Stout-Braised Lamb Shank. The menu also includes a few salads, pasta dishes, and desserts. They also offer a kid's menu. Their menu changes frequently but a sample is available here.

Shoreline is located at 208 Wabash in Michigan City, Indiana. They have a website here and can be reached by phone at 219-TRY HOPS (879-4677).   

Comments

[The Hungry Hoosier]

The Smokehouse was indeed specatular with the smoked pork! It was a pairing as perfect as Champagne and Caviar. Thanks Shoreline for making a great evening an even better one.