Cold light beer can be refreshing, especially during these hot days of summer, but the best, most flavorful stuff is usually served at (sometimes significantly) warmer temperatures. So, if you’re looking for the best craft beers, here are a few good places to start. And because many of these places offer a ton of beers (both on tap and in bottles/cans), some recommendations are included.
Bob’s Bar
4961 N. High St., Clintonville
614-888-9073
The most hardcore beer fans instinctively flock like to salmon of Capistrano to Bob’s. Follow the bar on Twitter to keep up with the latest tappings and events — for instance, a Chimay/Duval event celebrating Belgium’s Independence Day happened Wednesday, and Hoppin’ Frog Brewery and Three Floyds Brewing Co. will be featured Thursday.
Three suggestions: Three Floyds Blackheart (English IPA), Hoppin’ Frog Hop Heathen Imperial Black Ale, Harpoon Summer Beer (Kolsch)
Bodega
1044 N. High St., Short North
614-299-9399
There are many reasons why this is one of the Short North’s most popular bars, and the epic beer selection (50 drafts, one cask) is at the top of that list.
Three suggestions: North Peak Diabolical IPA, Founders All Day IPA, Brooklyn Sorachi Ace (farmhouse ale)
Local Bar
913 N. High St., Short North
614-670-8958
facebook.com/localbarshortnorth
The awesome ’70s decor (furry walls!) and best-decorated bathrooms in the city are nothing compared to the excellent draft list and some rare selections in bottles and cans.
Three suggestions: Dogfish Head Theobroma (ancient ale), Great Divide Hades (Belgian strong ale), Mendocino White Hawk Select IPA
Lounge 62
953 E. Johnstown Rd., Gahanna
614-245-8595
This spot tucked away in strip mall in Gahanna features 62 — yep, 62 — beers on tap. Multiple taps from standout craft breweries like Southern Tier, Founders and Avery share the tap space with some rarities in the semi-swanky lounge setting.
Three suggestions: Ballast Point Sculpin IPA, Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, Avery Hog Heaven (barley wine)
Matt the Miller's
1400 Grandview Ave., Grandview
614-732-5407
The 26 taps that rotate selections regularly always offer great pairings with Matt the Miller’s hearty comfort food menu. Just check out the Belgian beer dinner ($45, five courses) on July 23 to see.
Three suggestions: Columbus Brewing Co.’s Bodhi (Imperial IPA), 21st Amendment Monk’s Blood (Belgian dark ale), Green Flash Saison Diego
