Shades of Brew Brewery

2027 25th St SE, Salem
(503) 990-6122

Recent Reviews

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Michael Owen

I do not say this lightly, the BBQ here is the best I have had in Oregon. A really good standard brisket, well seasoned, tender, moist, with a good bit of bark and medium smoke. The ribs are phenomenal; good smoke, rich, well seasoned and nearly fall off the bone with a decently balanced sauce on the side. Flank steak is flawless, so tender I can easily cut it with a plastic knife, great seasoning, mild smoke and a chimichuri on the side that is peerless to any I have had locally. Super smokey bone-in and skin on chicken leg. Smokey to the point I would recommend just one per person and cut it with sides to balance it or share it. The tacos here are also fantastic, especially the chicken, typically we avoid pollo tacos at taquerias and trucks because they are often tough and dried out, not the case here. Good standard pulled pork tacos, sometimes they change them up a touch. Asada has been decent, just a bit of chew to them. My personal favorite has been the pork belly tacos when they dice/cube them, the strips of pork belly don't blend the flavors quite as well. Also the salsa here (hot sauce) is no joke. Super flavorful but also very solid heat to it, so test your personal level before drowning your tacos. Of the sides I particularly enjoyed the esquites which were well sauced and seasoned but not watery, unlike so many others. Also the beans here are great, though they are also always a little different, and sometimes a lot different. There are only two things here I can't say I am a fan of: The pizza which was a bit bready and basic, along with the lamb tacos which were very gamey. Note I did not have a chance to try the whole lamb when it was cooked so I can't speak to that. But really it doesn't matter at that point, so much good food. The service is always fantastic and fast. The 90's-2000's playlist on the speakers, at a reasonable decibel level is very much appreciated and nostalgic. The beer selection is very good and surprisingly varied for the size of the brewery. As well they have quite a few other brands on tap beyond their own beers. Just a few ciders on tap. The seating is a mix of hard surfaces for the most part so if you are sensitive to ergonomics or otherwise might suggest getting food to go. Otherwise pretty spartan on decor with just a pile of board games in the corner, a hood from what appears to be a racing car of some kind on the wall and a Pac-Man arcade table in the back corner along with a few TV's playing sports of various kinds. The kitchen is open concept, you can see the smokers and the brewing equipment from the dining area as well. I really appreciate and respect that they don't need to hide anything here.

Rosa

Had so much fun and the food was great!!! I had the pulled pork quesadilla and corn, and beans which were very tasteful but with a little kick, my man had the ribs, all of it was delicious. Bella was our waitress and she was sweet and attentive. She offered us different tastes of beer, which was nice. I will definitely be back. I would recommend this place to anyone! Please go and try it out!!!!

Bruce Breininger

Excellent beer and Tacos Very good smoked meat in the tacos

Joe Horn

Went here last night for cinco de mayo. The singer was great and the food was off the chain good!!!! We had the brisket and Barbacoa tacos. Best in Salem hands down. Great portions, fresh tortillas and just the right amount of spice. We sat outside and had great conversation with the owner “Shade.” Always good to see owners personally involved in their business. If you like a relaxed atmosphere, street tacos and good beer this is your place. If you are stuffy stay home. Good work Shade!!!!

Oscar Automotriz

We had a great time, the food and beer was great.

Janine Sheldon

Pork belly hell yeah!

Terry Mangum

Victor and his BBQ and cooking has stepped up the game here. Great food and good beer. If your in South Salem you know longer have to cross the river to get delicious BBQ!

Craig Rankin

Incredible Brisket , best I have ever had. Great Ciders and beer and great people and atmosphere . Highly recommend this place !

Wende Thatcher

Not extremely impressed. Seems to be out of everything even at the time of opening . Need to have food ready to open the doors. The Flank steak lacked flavor, and was tough. For $18-$25, the plates should at least come with a side. But then again they were out of potato salad and beans. I had a $21 chunk of meat….. that was it. Cider was decent. Sorry, just don’t have a reason to come back

salvador winn

The esquites Bowl was super delicious! Customer service could have been a little better. Will definitely be back and try some of the other food and beer.

Charles Brown

This is a brewery with good beer and even better bbq. The brisket here is the best in salem hands down. Feels weird to say that finally, moist fat and floppy. How it supposed to be. Sides actually good too. They're brisket is cooked with skill and love, you can tell.

Alex S

Came to check them out. BBQ Master Victor is expanding and sharing with the world his unique and amazing open fire cooking ! I must tell you ! It’s good, it’s unique , it’s tasty! Nice beer selection and a chill place to hang out !

Jason B

Stopped by here late for a quick beer, and the gal was super friendly and helpful. Pretty big tap list of their beers and others also. Pretty well rounded. Can’t wait to return to try more of their beers! The place was large and roomy with plenty of places to sit, either as a couple or large group.

Samuel Trejo-Townsend

One of the best bars to go to in Salem! Go, you won't regret it!

Koce Adramanov

This is a wonderful small brewery, the beer is fantastic and the owner is super nice.

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