Nestled in the heart of Stowe, Rimrock’s Mountain Tavern is a beer lover’s paradise that’ll make you question why you ever settled for anything less than liquid gold.
Imagine a place where the beer flows like a mountain stream, the atmosphere is as cozy as your favorite flannel shirt, and the food is so good it might just make you forget about the beer for a hot second.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill watering hole.
No, sir.
This is the kind of joint that makes you want to cancel all your plans, call in sick to work, and spend the rest of your days sipping on craft brews while contemplating the meaning of life.
Or at least the meaning of a perfectly poured pint.
As you approach Rimrock’s, you’ll be greeted by a charming yellow exterior that stands out like a sunflower in a field of daisies.
It’s the kind of building that screams “Come on in, the beer’s fine!” without actually saying a word.
The wraparound porch is perfect for those balmy Vermont summer evenings when you want to feel like you’re drinking in nature, but without all those pesky bugs trying to swim in your beer.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself transported to a world where rustic charm meets modern craft beer sensibility.
The interior is a delightful mishmash of wooden beams, quirky decorations, and enough beer memorabilia to make a brewery museum jealous.
It’s like someone took a cozy mountain cabin, stuffed it full of beer knowledge, and then invited everyone over for a party.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the beer.
Rimrock’s boasts a selection of craft brews that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance and your liver wonder what it did to deserve such royal treatment.
With a rotating tap list that changes faster than Vermont weather, there’s always something new and exciting to try.
From hoppy IPAs that’ll put hair on your chest (even if you don’t want it there) to smooth stouts that are darker than a moonless night, Rimrock’s has got you covered.
But don’t worry, hop-haters, there’s plenty for you too.
And for those who like their beer with a side of whimsy, they also offer refreshing ales that are perfect for après-ski shenanigans.
But Rimrock’s isn’t just about the beer.
Oh no, they’ve got a food menu that’ll make your stomach growl louder than a bear waking up from hibernation.
Take the Schlee’s Fish Stix & Tater Tots, for example.
It’s like someone took your favorite childhood meal and gave it a gourmet makeover.
The fish is crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside, and paired with tater tots that are so good, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with regular fries.
For those looking to keep it light (you know, so you can drink more beer), the Mediterranean Salad is a refreshing option.
It’s got all the usual suspects – mixed greens, cucumbers, red onions, olives – but they’ve thrown in some feta cheese and a zesty lemon vinaigrette that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the Greek isles.
Just close your eyes, take a bite, and pretend the sound of clinking beer glasses is actually waves lapping at the shore.
Now, if you’re feeling particularly peckish (or if you’re trying to soak up all that delicious beer), the Nachos are a must-try.
These aren’t your average, run-of-the-mill nachos.
No, sir.
These are a mountain of crispy tortilla chips smothered in melted cheddar and jack cheeses, topped with black beans, jalapeños, and enough toppings to make you wonder if they’ve got a small army of chefs back there.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to high-five your server and hug the chef.
But what really sets Rimrock’s apart is the atmosphere.
It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends over a shared love of good beer and even better conversation.
The walls are adorned with an eclectic mix of local art, vintage ski equipment, and enough beer signs to make you feel like you’re in a hops-induced fever dream.
There’s even a sign that proclaims, “In dog beers, I’ve only had one.”
It’s the kind of joke that gets funnier with each pint, trust me.
And let’s not forget about the staff.
These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill bartenders and servers.
No, these folks are like beer sommeliers, but without the snooty attitude.
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They can tell you the difference between a pilsner and a porter faster than you can say “I’ll have another,” and they’re always ready with a recommendation based on your taste preferences.
It’s like having a personal beer guru at your beck and call.
One of the coolest things about Rimrock’s is their commitment to local breweries.
They’ve got a Vermont Tap Takeover night where they showcase the best brews from around the Green Mountain State.
It’s like a liquid tour of Vermont, minus the long drives and questionable GPS directions.
You can sample everything from Burlington’s finest to hidden gems from the Northeast Kingdom, all without leaving your barstool.
Now, I know what you’re thinking.
“But what if I’m not a beer drinker?”
First of all, who are you and how did you end up in this article?
But fear not, non-beer enthusiasts, for Rimrock’s has got you covered too.
They’ve got a selection of wines that’ll make you forget all about those fancy Napa Valley vineyards, and cocktails that are mixed with more precision than a Swiss watchmaker.
For the designated drivers and teetotalers in the group, Rimrock’s offers a selection of craft sodas and non-alcoholic beverages that are anything but boring.
The house-made ginger beer has enough kick to make you forget you’re not actually drinking alcohol, and the fresh-squeezed lemonades come in flavors that’ll make you wonder why you ever settled for the powdered stuff.
Now, let’s talk about the entertainment.
Rimrock’s isn’t content with just serving up great food and drinks.
Oh no, they’ve got to go and make it fun too.
Live music is a regular feature at Rimrock’s, with local bands and musicians taking the stage to provide the soundtrack to your beer-drinking adventures.
From folksy acoustic sets that’ll make you want to quit your job and become a wandering minstrel, to rock bands that’ll have you air-guitaring with a beer in hand, there’s something for every musical taste.
Just remember: No matter how good you think your dance moves are after a few pints, the staff has seen it all before.
They’re not impressed, but they are amused.
One of the most unique features of Rimrock’s is their Mug Club.
For a yearly fee, you get your very own personalized mug that hangs on the wall, waiting for your return.
It’s like having a little piece of real estate in beer heaven.
Plus, Mug Club members get special discounts and first dibs on limited edition brews.
It’s the kind of exclusive club that doesn’t require a secret handshake or a fancy blazer – just a love of good beer and a willingness to become a regular.
And let’s be honest, with beer this good, becoming a regular is less of a choice and more of an inevitability.
As the night wears on and the beer keeps flowing, you might find yourself engaged in deep philosophical discussions with your fellow patrons.
Topics can range from the meaning of life to whether or not Bigfoot is just a really hairy Vermonter who got lost in the woods.
It’s the kind of place where great ideas are born, friendships are forged, and occasionally, bad decisions are made.
But that’s the beauty of Rimrock’s.
It’s a place where you can let your hair down, forget about the outside world for a while, and just enjoy the simple pleasures of good beer, great food, and even better company.
As the night comes to a close and you reluctantly prepare to leave this beer-lover’s paradise, you’ll find yourself already planning your next visit.
Maybe you’ll try that new IPA that’s coming on tap next week.
Whatever brings you back, one thing’s for sure: Rimrock’s Mountain Tavern isn’t just a bar, it’s an experience.
It’s a place where memories are made, taste buds are tantalized, and the outside world fades away in a haze of hops and happiness.
So, whether you’re a local looking for your new favorite watering hole or a visitor seeking the true taste of Vermont, make your way to Rimrock’s.
Your liver might not thank you, but your soul certainly will.
For more information about their current tap list, upcoming events, and to drool over their menu, visit Rimrock’s Mountain Tavern’s website or Facebook page.
And when you’re ready to embark on your beer pilgrimage, use this map to guide your way to hoppy heaven.
Where: 394 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
Remember, at Rimrock’s, every day is Oktoberfest, every pour is perfect, and every visit is an adventure in liquid form.
Cheers, and may your glass always be at least half full!