Brewpubs in Keene

“Keene, New Hampshire. A town known for rowdy college blowouts and an obsession with pumpkins that borders on cult-like. It’s not the place you’d expect to find a brewery serving margarita flights that make you question your passport status — but here we are.

Elm Brewery is a refuge. A brick-and-wood sanctuary where good beer flows and the lighting makes everyone look 15% more interesting. The ale? It's the kind of stuff that makes you want to storm into a boardroom and shout, “Bottle this now, you cowards.” It's damn good — smooth, flavorful, like it was brewed with actual pride and a touch of rebellion.

The food is comfort with a capital “C.” I ordered the beef stroganoff — and yes, it came with meatballs. Not traditional, but I’m not mad about it. Creamy, rich, a little indulgent — like something your Eastern European grandma would make if she smoked weed and listened to Metallica.

My brother made the tactical error of ordering the cheesesteak, which he didn’t love. (You go to a brewery in New Hampshire and expect Philly-level cheesesteak? Rookie move.) But the fried mushrooms and spinach artichoke dip? Beautiful. Golden-fried perfection and gooey, cheesy goodness. The kind of bar snacks that keep you from ever leaving.

And then there were the margarita flights. Four mini glasses of pure tropical escapism. Lime, spice, maybe even some fruit you can't pronounce — it was like a Cancun beach party in a snow globe. Weirdly magical.

The staff? On point. Friendly without being fake. The kind of people who look you in the eye, know their menu, and don’t mind a weird question or two.

Elm Brewery isn’t trying to be trendy. It’s not chasing hashtags or TikTok fame. It’s just doing its thing — and doing it well. If you're in Keene and need a break from pumpkin mobs or college-town chaos, this is your place. Grab a seat, order a beer, and enjoy the ride.“

“Great beer. Amazing food. The truffle fries are so good. Love the sack lunch banana and the electric raspberry.“