It’s tough to know what kind of scene to expect at noon on a Sunday in a brewery. If the brewery serves food, there’s a good chance you’ll run into a brunch or lunch crowd. If the brewery doesn’t serve food, there’s a good chance you’ll run into some early regulars there to watch a game at the bar. At Territorial Brewing Company, in Springfield, MI, I was pleased to see both types of patrons during my visit last month.
Territorial Brewing is housed in a beautiful building that has the feel of a hunting lodge. It overlooks a field with plenty of trees, and a disc golf course. The place is lovely. German regalia adorns the walls, beer steins of multiple sizes line the shelves, and upon first walking in I knew I would love it. I was greeted warmly by Hayley, manager and acting bartender, who immediately suggested I order a giant pretzel with their signature beer cheese. “Cheese” was the magic word, so I ordered it.
The rest of the food menu at Territorial read like a traditional German rathskeller: schnitzel, spaetzle, potatoes, sausages – I was in heaven. I quickly put in an order for schnitzel and spaetzel (think of German macaroni and cheese) and turned my attention to the beer.
I was interested in several of their offerings, and Hayley happily recommended her favorites. Dr. Choctopus was a chocolate Milk Stout. Besides the excellent name, it was creamy, sweet, and had a clean finish. I don’t usually go for stouts in the middle of the day, but this one was lighter than most with a 5.2% ABV. Pheasant Dreams, an American IPA, was absolutely delicious and hit hard at 12 pm at 7.2%. Michigan Copper, Cascade, and Citra hops blended together well. It was not too bitter and paired well with the my beer cheese, which was one of the best blends I’ve ever had. I tried to save a little to spread on the schnitzel, but I couldn’t help myself. Beer cheese should be on everything.
My personal winner for the day turned out to be one of their most popular beers, Big Yellow Truck, a German Pilsner. At 5.3%, it was a perfect beer. It was straw golden in color, crisp and had a clean finish. I found it easy to drink, and was excited when I saw it was available in cans for me to bring home (which I did). I happily downed two while feasting on the schnitzel because there is absolutely no way to go wrong with a friend pork chop and cold beer.
Territorial Brewing Company was such a welcoming place that I hated to leave. Several regulars bellied up to the bar during my time and were greeted just as warmly as I had been. Seeing such kind and friendly service made me feel right at home. I know Territorial will definitely be on my list of places to visit the next time I head out to the Kalamazoo area. You should do the same!
READ MORE ABOUT TERRITORIAL BREWING COMPANY:
Michigan’s 2021 Great American Beer Festival Winners
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