Saturday 13th of April 2013 09:32:14 PM

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We came here mid-week and without GPS we probably wouldn't have found it. The name "hideout" is quite fitting.

Just popping in for a taste amidst other errands, we felt a bit out of place. Maybe it was because it was a Tuesday early afternoon, or (more likely) we were the only non-regulars in the place. Plus, bringing our 6 month old may have gotten us more 'looks' from the patrons than otherwise expected.

It was tough finding something interesting on the menu, but there were the usual styles to chose from. We weren't impressed with the stout, and with the uncomfortable atmosphere, we left before trying another.

Sunday 8th of August 2010 12:54:52 PM

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Let me preface by stating that this is my 160th brewpub visited with several thousand beers under my (substantial) belt.

I visited this brewpub due to it's high rating on this site, skipping at least one other in the area due to time limitations. I was SORELY disappointed in my choice.

While the decor is interesting and cozy, with what looks to be a loyal local following, and the bar-tender was quite friendly the beer was sub-par.

The pilsner was fruity with a dirty, heavy mouthfeel and logy finish. I've had cleaner homebrew from beginners. The stout was very plain, too clean and served freezing cold. The flavors did not develop with a bit of warming. Uninspired is the phrase that comes to mind.

I couldn't bring myself to continue on the the Belgian styles on the menu as I can't imagine they would have bridged the quality gap.

Overall I'd say skip it and head to Founders or New Holland for a consistent quality of beers.

Sunday 29th of March 2009 10:04:53 AM

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Just a short story. My son and I (my wife was our designated driver) decided to late to buy tickets to the Michigan winter beer fest 2008,so of coarse when we drive to the event the billboard flashed "EVENT" then it flashed "SOLD OUT". Dissapointed we remember we tried to go to the Hideout on our way to the UP last fall and they weren't open until 4 p.m. (it was 12:30). We ended up going to Founders at there old location (thats another story). Anyway after getting to the Hideout we started our own beer tasting event. They have it set up so you get 5 tasters at a time. My son and I each ordered the same beers so we could compare the flavers. We were very impressed with every beer, especially the hazelnut porter (or stout). They had 9 beers on tap so we had to try the other four (with the fifth of that five with another hazelnut).
Again every beer was excellent and they even had an amber on nitro. After the tasting we decided on a pint of hazelnut (glad we had a driver). We were then hungry and had to get food (went to Founders and they also have great beers and good sandwiches). This place has some of the best beers I've had and if they had food to go with it, and more room, it would be another busy Founders.

Sunday 28th of December 2008 10:58:05 AM

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The Hideout is one of those gems that you discover along life's path. The greater Grand Rapids area certainly has a number of microbrew and brewpub options, and the Hideout is a must-visit for any beer enthusiast. Head Brewer/owner Ken has some great regular beers, and typically has a few surprises ready, too. The indoor atmosphere is intimate, and you will always make some new friends. In season, there is a large outdoor seating & recreation area. Very basic food available, and the popcorn is free. I go for the beer!

Wednesday 16th of May 2007 03:58:25 PM

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I must admit, I was a bit scared of what I would find inside Hideout Brewing when I got out of the car. All I could smell was chlorine from the next door neighbor (a hot tub spa place).

We put that aside and continued forth into the darkened bar. There were 6 to 8 beers available on tap at a U or J shaped bar. They have an upstairs gameroom/seating area and you can look back into windows beside the bar to see the brewing area.

There do seem to be some food options, but I did not investigate further. The beers were very solid and I was very pleased with our trip here.

While the name does fit the location, it really wasn't that hard to find. And it is not that far off of the beaten path. I would not hesitate to give it a shot if you are in the area. And make sure to tell them you found their location through beermapping!