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    Black Pond Brews

    4.5 (56 reviews)
    InexpensiveBreweries
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    Cool mural outside. It was pouring rain when I snapped this shot.
    Kara S.

    Sweet spot. My in-laws live about a mile from this place and I was thrilled to visit it with my nephew and Father in-law (at Father in-law's suggestion). The inside isn't huge but on a rainy Saturday afternoon we easily found a table. We ordered an October Fest, the Dropkick Kitty which was an Irish stout and I had an excellent IPA called "that Hyphy beer" described as follows: West Coast IPA. Aggressively hopped, crisp, citrusy, and piney. Featuring Simcoe, Centennial, Cascade, and Bravo hops. I really liked this one. I'm drawn to what I (and I'm sure others) call, a mouth-punch, for an IPA. I want bitter and when I see "aggressively hopped", I'm in. My nephew and FIL both liked it a lot, even though they're generally not IPA fans. The bar staff (one smiling, welcoming person) was great and inviting. I want to stress that this is a small town joint and I felt comfortable, which is really nice. The other patrons were super chill and welcoming too. They have food, which is awesome. Pretzel bites with beer cheese and/or mustard butter (though they should give way more dipping sauce) and pizza, burgers, Weinerschnitzel, fettuccini Alfredo, birria tacos, salads!!!! If I didn't already have dinner plans I would've ordered more than the pretzel bites.

    Melissa V.

    We started with a flight to share and try out a few beers. We each picked our favorite and ordered full size beers. They also have a kitchen that makes some pretty good things to have with your beer. Nice area to sit outside if the weather is nice.

    Bar / bourbon
    Michael W.

    It's in the middle of nowhere, the parking isn't great, it's busy, it's loud...but none of that matters cause everything else is so good! This brewery has everything you'd ever want: great beer, great food, and a rotating bourbon selection. Seriously, who knew I would find bottles of bourbon at a small brewery that I couldn't even find on store shelves?? Amazing. And the food! Not your typical cheap and frozen fare. This stuff was made with love. The Birria smash burger is seriously still on my mind - so flavorful!! Although the place was absolutely packed when I was there, the bar tenders were still super fun to interact with and took their time answering questions etc. seriously great vibes for a small town brewery. I can't wait to go back!!

    Barrel Age Old Fashion
    George R.

    You want to talk about a brewery with awesomeness Black Pond Brews is the place. My 3rd stop on the NE beer tour and impressive. This little tucked away hole in the wall gems is a must. If you are on 395 in CT you really need to make a detour and stop in . Plenty of local made in house brews to satisfy everyone. Food oh ya they got that to. You want to play Corn Hole they got that too. You want beer to go, they got that too. So stop bye say hello, down a brew or two and enjoy.

    The bar
    Rachel M.

    We came here ages ago when they were in a much smaller spot. I was so happy to see they had expanded and added food to their menu! I'm going to be honest and say there is not a heck of a lot to do in western RI/eastern CT, so when a cool space like this opens up, it's a real treat. We've only been here in the winter, so we haven't had a chance to use the outdoor space yet, but they have some picnic tables and cornhole which will make for a great summer hangout spot. Inside, it's small but well-managed. You order your drinks and food at the bar then pick-up at the window. The pretzel bites are amazing. Deep fried and buttery and served with honey mustard butter or beer cheese, but do yourself a favor and get both. Staff is friendly, beer is good, this is going to be a a regular hangout spot for us.

    Wienerschnitzel and pretzel bites
    Allison C.

    Compared to many of the breweries I've been to, Black Pond Brews is a more intimate space. They had an excellent menu with some unique choices, particularly the Wiener schnitzel! We sat next to the window as we waited for our food, and I couldn't help but notice the selection of games available, which is always a nice touch at a brewery. My fiancé enjoyed his beer ("Moves", their flagship IPA), and we were definitely impressed by the soft pretzel bites and flavorful pork cutlets. I was a little sad that the pretzels didn't come with a beer cheese, but the mustard butter was good! Their gravy on both the poutine and on the side of the wiener schnitzel was phenomenal. Limited outdoor seating was available, as well as a corn hole set, and it was nice to see that they were dog-friendly outside.

    Weird recurring can issue - only this brewery
    S P.

    We have been here many times and love the beer, particularly Machu Picchu which is one of my favorites anywhere. However, at least 5 different cans(some were Mr. Kitty) we have bought at different times has been under filled (flimsy feeling) and/or not sealed properly, which you figure out later. They look okay when you buy them, although we haven't tried squeezing each can before purchasing it. We thought the first one was a fluke. We have never had this happen with any of the other hundreds of cans we have bought at similar breweries, and storage is the same in the same fridge. We brought one back, a 40 minute ride, but doing that each time we find one isn't sustainable nor a great idea these days. If you open the can, it's flat and seems short. I emailed them and got zero response regarding this, so we won't be returning. Disappointing quality control and customer service. I'll miss this stuff.

    Lovin' the juice box!

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    They have a great selection of beers and the new location is nice and spacious. Everyone is very friendly!

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    I was disappointed I really wanted to love it, it doesn't feel like a brewery, just another so so bar.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Black Pond Brews

    Review Highlights - Black Pond Brews

    The Machu Picchu (Jalapeño Saison) is super unique and awesome.

    Mentioned in 4 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Bear Hands Brewing Company - Asked Crystal for a shot of Redemption, and couldn't help but take this epic photo.

    Bear Hands Brewing Company

    (21 reviews)

    Bear Hands Brewery delivers the kind of experience that keeps you planning your next visit before…read moreyou've even left. The space itself is impressive -- open, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed so it never feels cramped, even when it's busy. There's a warm, welcoming vibe that makes it just as easy to hang out with friends as it is to settle in for a quiet pint. The beer selection is genuinely outstanding. Whether you're into crisp lagers, bold IPAs, or something more experimental, there's always something worth trying, and the staff knows their stuff if you want a recommendation. There's always a wide range of styles on tap, and everything feels well‑crafted and intentional. It's the kind of place where trying a flight is almost mandatory because there are too many good options to pick just one. And the food... the pretzels are absolute must‑haves. It is soft, warm, and perfectly salted, and the bites are the ideal pairing for a flight -- simple, delicious, and exactly what you want with good beer. A great atmosphere, fantastic brews, and snacks that hit the spot. Bear Hands Brewery nails it.

    I love their beer. Everyone we walk in I'm greeted with a smile as I was today. Alyssa is…read moreincredibly friendly and always recommends the best beer. We haven't had their food yet, but their drinks are 10/10. We enjoy sitting at the man bar upstairs, but they downstairs bar is cozy and welcoming, feels like a true speakeasy!

    Tree House Brewing Company - Double Barrel Rum Coconut Truth

    Tree House Brewing Company

    (508 reviews)

    $$

    Visited Tree House Brewing Company while in Sturbridge. The atmosphere was energetic and…read morewell-organized, and the operation runs like a well-oiled machine. I first visited these guys when they were operating out of a small barn, and seeing the evolution to this 53,000 sq ft, $18.5M facility is seriously impressive. They follow a "direct-to-consumer" model -- selling everything right out the front door -- and they've mastered it. I've been here many times over the years and go whenever I have the opportunity, which says everything. Tried some of their standout beers -- King Julius is the gold standard, consistently ranked among the best beers in the world. Their flagship Julius is just as impressive, with massive notes of mango and peach -- incredibly well balanced and executed. There are usually food trucks on site, which adds to the experience -- you can enjoy a fresh pour while picking up your take-home haul. Fun fact: On BeerAdvocate's all-time Top 250 list, Tree House often has 30+ beers featured, something almost no other brewery can match. Overall, some of the best beers anywhere -- truly unparalleled and absolutely worth the visit. Saluti.

    TH continues to be my favorite New England brewery. So many styles that are all really well done…read more Having multiple locations has helped tame some of the lines but it continues to be busy in Charlton, especially on weekends so I try to avoid going there on weekends. Hint: this time of year is actually a great time to visit their sandwich location, especially if you can catch a decent weather day. The real reason for the update is that they now have pizza in Charlton! At the time of writing this, it's only by the slice and only M-Th. They lack the capacity to feed the masses at this time but I'm guessing the goal is to ramp up to full production eventually. Unfortunately, my slice last night was not the best they can do. Undercooked, slightly cold and a little chewy, and no char. I look forward to when it's hot and fresh, but for now, at least it's a start!!

    Bravo Brewing

    Bravo Brewing

    (26 reviews)

    $

    Parking was easy with street spots available and a public lot right across the street. The taproom…read moreis cozy and seems like a great place to meet friends or congregate as a group if you're a local or regular. I went to order the spiked Mango Seltzer (not a flavor option you see often, I was happy to see this!), but then saw a bottle of lavender syrup next to where she was grabbing to mango and asked if I could get a lavender seltzer instead. I'm a bit of a lavender addict so whenever I see it, I NEED to get it. The bartender warned it could be a little light, but I went ahead with ordering it anyway. It was delicious! The color was light but the flavor was not. I was surprised to learn they have a full food menu here. I had already eaten but got to pick some yummy crispy fries from my friend's plate, and they were delicious. Lots of seasonal St. Patrick's Day options were available, which added a nice festive flair. Bathrooms were clean and easy to find, and I loved the "furry friends of Bravo" bulletin board with pet pictures to gaze at. I didn't get to visit for a super long time, but enjoyed the experience I did have.

    First time here. Cool setting, it has some outdoor seating and a good amount of indoor. There is a…read moregood beer selection- no stouts though. I went with the dark Czech lager. Malty, easy to drink, had some good backbone. They carry other beer on tap that they don't brew as well, so you will have something you like, I'm sure. The chicken sandwich was pretty sad. My chicken was paper thin and it was very bland. Bun to meat ratio was off. No sauce or any kind of aioli to add some depth and moisture. Nonetheless, it's a good spot to hang with some friends if you have any that live in the area. You go and order at the bar and they will give you a number so it's a counter service spot.

    Willimantic Brewing Company - Nachos

    Willimantic Brewing Company

    (546 reviews)

    $$

    Food: 8/10- great flavor, made fresh. The garlic mash was basic and did not have a creamy texture…read moreand lacked the garlic taste. The rest of the food was everything I expected. The wings and the mousse (beyond expectations)!! MUAH- chef's kiss! The mussels were good but need a bit of something. Service: I had my food for pick-up. I did not eat-in so I can't offer a true review. HOWEVER. The host/greeters were polite. They greeted me upon eye contact and kept warm smiles on their face the entire time. When my food bag was handed to me. I was met with a fare well greeting and a thank you. 10/10 for my service experience, although brief. Ambiance: Vibrant. When you walk in you hear pleasant chattering and the sound of honest conversation and genuine joy. Price: 8.5/10. Fair prices.

    Willibrew has been a staple for more than 25 years, and that history is honestly the only thing…read morekeeping this from being a much lower rating. There's a lot of nostalgia tied to this place, but the experience today feels like a shadow of what it used to be. The quality has dropped drastically. Service was, frankly, atrocious--slow, disengaged, and bordering on indifferent. The beer selection is still decent, but it doesn't matter much when every pour arrives tasting off. Whether it's bad kegs or hot glasses, the result is the same: lukewarm, skunky beer that's hard to enjoy. Food was another disappointment. Every item came out cold, and the flavors were on par with grade‑D fast food--bland, lifeless, and nowhere near the standard this place once had. Giving three stars feels generous, but it's a nod to the legacy Willibrew built over the decades. I truly hope they find their footing again, because right now, the nostalgia is doing all the heavy lifting. Ummmmm cheers I guess

    Apponaug Brewing Company - KP fries

    Apponaug Brewing Company

    (244 reviews)

    $$

    Last night was my first visit - it is way cute! I knew it was in the Nylo mills building but didn't…read moreknow exactly where it was. Its in a nice little spot, there was plenty of parking and the space is clearly new which you notice in a nice clean newly paved parking lot. I like when I walked in- there is a small entry - you're not thrown into a big space. I wasn't expecting table service at a brewery - even with a full menu - that was a nice surprise. Our server did have a slight lag where we were thinking wheeerrrrrre did he go? But the rest of the night he was on top of things. I ordered poutine and a couple of beers. The poutine was good - I like shoestring fries. But I have one beloved former RI restaurants poutine taking up too big a space in my heart still, and this didn't quite hit that. But it was a good snack. Great serving size. We sat in a small alcove with like 4 - 4 top tables. I dig the decorations. Christmas lights are festive and fun. The bar looked decently busy for a wednesday evening - but the acoustics inside work well and it didn't feel noisy or distracting. I got the Cohesive (American IPA) and def enjoyed it. Balanced, not too hoppy, crisp.

    This is a really neat spot set in an old mill building right on the water. It's more than just a…read morebrewery; they've got a solid food menu too. There's bar seating, tables, outdoor space, and even fire pits, and the overall atmosphere is spot on. We didn't love our particular table - we were seated right where people line up to order beer, so it felt like they were basically standing at our table. If I went back, I'd probably ask to sit somewhere else or just grab a seat at the bar. The beer was decent, with about 8-10 varieties on tap. You can tell this is a local favorite. What a great place to meet up and connect with friends! Definitely worth checking out.

    Black Pond Brews - breweries - Updated May 2026

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