Friday 4th of June 2010 09:59:25 PM

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12/07
Stopped in after work to try the new Kalamazoo Amber on tap. I've passed by here countless times, and never really gave it a second thought. In the summer, there is always a crowd outside having lunch on the patio, so the food must be pretty popular. The atmosphere of the place is comfortable, low lighting, with lots of wood, vintage tile floors, and pressed tin ceiling tiles. There was also winter holiday decor on my visit, and the place had a "just waxed" cleanliness about it. There were some retro touches, but it was a far cry from the Great Northern in Twin Peaks...

Beer-wise, the place is certainly a step up from many other average bars, but their selection is pretty lacking. 20 bottles, nothing very interesting at all. They had Fat Tire and Delirium, but every bar has those at the minimum. There were around 8 taps on when I went, there were a couple GLBC, GI Matilda, Rogue, and the Kalamazoo Amber as well. The Kalamazoo Amber was tasty and served in a pint glass. Tasted fresh as could be. It wasn't crowded, but the bartenders were caught up in conversation, which slowed service down some.

With so many other beer destinations in close proximity, it makes it hard for me to ever want to intentionally drink here. I may come back for a meal sometime if someone else wants to go. On a side note, Olivia's Market next door is a great little spot to get craft beer, soup & sandwich to go, or pick up a few local/organic products.

Wednesday 2nd of July 2008 12:16:06 PM

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Silver Cloud is a great restaurant with a good beer selection. The food is good, if not always exactly exciting. Their brunch is great, and one should show up early (they open at 10 on weekends) to get seated. The street side patio is packed when the weather permits.

Parking can be tricky, but try a block or two west (around Milwaukee) and street parking should be possible. Otherwise, the L blue line is just south, at the North/Milwaukee/Damen intersection.