I have been to the LAB twice now. There always seems to be a good beer selection and they even have some seasonal beers on tap that are out of season (like Oktoberfest on New Years Eve). This may be because they had not sold all of it yet or they brew it year round. It would be kind of unique if they brewed seasonals all year round as most brewers don't do this. In any sense, the Oktoberfest was still very good. Overall, the beer is good and some are great. The food is AWESOME! They were serving new specials other than what is on the menu both times I visited and both were excellent. The menu has a good variety of "Asheville type" entre's and regular pub food that has been taken to the next level. The place is very spacious with a large curving bar that makes for good viewing and people watching. There are lots of tables for dining left of the bar and you can definitely bring the kids if you choose. There is also a great outdoor seating area in the front of the brewery with large windows that open up to this space from the inside bringing the outside in when the weather is warm. My party talked with the brewers at the bar on New Years eve and they were great guys making good beer. The service both times I visited was excellent.

My one pet peeve about this place is that they will only fill their own growlers. COME ON?!?!?! Like I need 50 growlers. At least other Asheville brewing companies let you fill any 64 oz. growler. Just be happy that I am buying your beer! You really need to change this, otherwise I am not filling up my growler here.

Overall, I definitely recommend it for beers, food, atmosphere, and service. Just get your growler filled somewhere else.

You can check out their brewery on line at www.lexavebrew.com.

reviewed on: 2011-02-19 06:52:29