While Surly made the biggest splash in Minnesota's burgeoning brewery pool this year, it wasn't alone. At least 15 taprooms opened in the Twin Cities metro and not all were created equal. These were our favorite five new taprooms of 2014, in alphabetical order.
Bauhaus Brew Labs
You might find the founding Schwandt brothers rocking out on the small stage in the Nordeast newbies' comfortably cool taproom. Slick design aside, the Wonderstuff pilsner keeps us coming back.
1315 NE. Tyler St., Mpls., 612-276-6911, www.bauhausbrewlabs.com
Bent Brewstillery
Redoing the taproom after Bent absorbed Roseville's Pour Decisions Brewing Co. was definitely a good decision. If its Moar Scottish session IPA isn't on tap, politely badger your beer-tender until they realize that making more is also a smart idea.
1744 Terrace Dr., Roseville, 844-879-2368, www.bentbrewstillery.com
Eastlake Craft Brewery
Speaking of smart ideas, opening a brewery inside Midtown Global Market is better than having a food-truck battalion parked outside. Pair Eastlake's black IPA with whatever worldly fare desired.
920 E. Lake St., No. 123, Mpls., 612-524-9765, www.eastlakemgm.com
LynLake Brewery
Patio season ended before LynLake could find its rooftop groove. But ample TVs make it a hit with Uptown's sports-watching set. Post up with a Tradesman Robust Porter during the next big game.
2934 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls., 612-224-9682, www.lynlakebrewery.com
Urban Growler
St. Paul got into the new brew game, too. While Urban Growler is one of the few taprooms to offer in-house food, we mostly longed for summertime Cowbell Cream Ales on its pooch-friendly patio.
2325 Endicott St., St. Paul, 651-340-5793, www.urbangrowlerbrewing.com
MICHAEL RIETMULDER
