Fort McMurray’s only microbrewery and distillery
The Wood Buffalo Brewing Company brings a collection of flavoured beer from its housed microbrewery making it a local staple in the community.
Located on 9914 Franklin Avenue at the Morrison Centre, the Wood Buffalo Brewing Company first opened its door in January 2013. It’s the largest microbrewery in Northern Alberta.
Bearhill Brewing - the parent company - also owns microbreweries in Banff, Jasper, and Calgary and promote their collective group of businesses under a clever Albeerta marketing banner.
The drinks at this craft brewery don’t come from a bottle as they are served fresh from a cast by staff.
Guests can see parts of the brewing process while they eat. The atmosphere is casual upscale and for everyone; not just the “hipster” crowd.
The parent company Bearhill Brews states on their website that they have a mission to enrich the lives of “our guests; our employees, and our communities through superior quality handcrafted beer, food with attitude, unique beverages, fun customer service and by treating our employees like family.”
They achieve this end. The menu has a range of appetizers, snacks and mains.
Since it opened its doors; the Brew Pub has become a Fort McMurray fixture; a local staple for people in the community for great food, and locally made craft beer.
The microbrewery states that it makes its brews for the residents of Wood Buffalo, and the flavours inspiration comes from the region. They even use local water in production. The dedicated brewmasters work hard to make original craft beer.
Some brands of local brew which have made it big in retail include; the Northern Dark Light Lager, and Babe Blueberry Vanilla Ale.
They are also a distillery in addition to being a microbrewery. Furthermore, they had a charity event to sell The BEAST whisky; and this is special because the barrels that were sparred despite the wildfire and evacuation and proceeds from their auction are charitable.
If patrons stop in for the locally made beer and eat; they can also get some retail therapy and buy swag; including hats, hoodies and T-shirts.
The restaurant scores a 4.3 out of 5 on their Facebook page based on the opinion of 519 people.
A scan of reviews from patrons also shows that the wings are always a hit. Menu items worth mention; The Fort Maki Roll; which is a pilsner battered Atlantic lobster sushi roll stuffed with; red pepper, cucumber, and finished with a sambal mayo finished with a teriyaki glaze.
The warm maki roll is liked by patrons. For something tasty and light, the Apple Walnut Salad is something more filling for as starter; the Stuffed Yorkies – which is tender roast beef with brown gravy and horseradish bit sized or made for sharing; this is unique in their offerings also.
Two sandwiches that have stood the test of time and have remained on the menu is the Bison Burger – a six once bison patty, topped to perfection with all the fixings and a roast Turkey on Naan. For mains, guests often enjoy a Rustic Elf meatloaf or pan seared Atlantic Salmon. A breakfast menu is also available.
Eat in or Skip the Dishes and order take out – check out the Wood Buffalo Brewing Co’s menu online and visit their Facebook page for weekly specials and entertainment announcements.