Monday 6th of April 2009 12:51:40 PM

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Stopped into this Granite City for a quick beer and an appetizer, and found it to be identical to the location in Des Moines. Right down to the bartender. Just kidding. She was friendly, and quick about getting us a bock and a stout, as well as our food. She made it a point to ask my wife if she wanted a room temp or chilled glass for her stout. We both answered at the same time, and she confirmed that I wanted room temp also, as if the stout's the only one that gets the choice? I'm not sure. The exchange was quick and I wasn't looking to be rude.

Our room temp glass beers were good, and while I hadn't been impressed with the lunch I'd ordered at the Des Moines location, I'll have to say that I very much enjoyed the artichoke dip appetizer that we shared here in Cedar Rapids.

In general, this was a good experience at a chain brewpub, though it seems more of a place for yuppies to go and be seen because "they make their own beer," than a beer geek haunt. Not a lotta choice, and some of the choice is attributed to blended pours from the taps. Clean. Friendly staff. Decent beer.