Wednesday 13th of April 2011 08:45:54 PM

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We had a big group for lunch here on a Friday afternoon. This brewpub is in small plaza close to Gonzaga University. It’s at the end of this large hallway that contains several other stores and a restaurant. They have 11 beers on tap and their pick-your-own sampler varies from 4 to 11 beers at reasonable prices. A four beer sampler is $5.00, five beers is $6.00, etc. Pints are $4.50 to $5.00. They also bottle 22 ouncers, and have growlers and kegs. They operate a 30 barrel system and a small bottling station. The food was very good. The menu had hop/barley information for several of the beers but no IBU or ABV information. The waiter knew the specifics when I asked. All the beers were great; my favorite was the Crystal Bitter Ale. There are several TVs in the area which has ample seating for large crowds. There is an outside pub and bar area that does allow smoking otherwise no smoking inside. There is plenty of parking out front. WI-FI is available in the brewpub. Brian gave me a short tour around the brewery and talked about the beers and history. I had a thoroughly enjoyable time.

Tuesday 16th of September 2008 07:20:24 PM

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We arrived late afternoon in Spokane Washington as they where also suffering from a sudden explosion of the sun and the heat index was way over 100 degrees. So what was in order? Yep you guessed correct cold beer was needed and Northern Lights Brewing was the next stop. Tucked in the heart of Spokane Northern Lights was a perfect stop. I was greeted with a sample tray of 10 different beer and all very good. The light pale ales where wonderful the Huckleberry crème was very tasty and fruity with the dark stout full of life and hit the spot. I had dinner here and the food was very tasty and pub faire which is what I love. They did have a spendy section but I stayed with a burger and that was perfect. This place from what I can see can get packed so get there early and if you have time hit the distillery next door. Dry Fly distilling the first Micro Distiller in Washington state. They have some wonderful products and samples to go around Vodka, Gin and even some special Whiskey. This is a great little place in itself and just adds to the whole Spokane experience. So get some beer take a tour of the distillery and brewery and have a great time. This was also connected to about 2-3 different restaurants all with different flair so you can find some great food for what ever your taste. So at the end of a great day hit the brewery and have a great time good food and an awesome pub atmosphere. Oh I all most forgot to mention it is ok to bring the kids.

Wednesday 14th of May 2008 04:40:16 PM

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Spokane - beastly hot in summer, Arctic cold in winter - and a good place for a beer anytime.
Unfortunately, there are only 2 brewpubs in this, the biggest burg in Eastern Washington -- and Northern Lights certainly makes a case for being the best.

Although none of the beers were particular outstanding, they were all enjoyable; my favorites, the Chocolate Dunkel, Stellar Stout and, except for its urine color, the Creme Ale. My least favorite; the Blueberry Creme - more like a fruity, fizzy drink I used to buy at the local grocery when I was all of 10 years old...but NOT in a beer.

This is not the easiest pub to find - it shares space with a New Orleans-themed restaurant that commands a view of the Spokane River (the pub does not ) although it entices you since you can watch the diners from your side of the glass as they watch you, watching them! A Zen-zoo, perhaps.

The service was a bit lacking but, in their defense they were crowded and my Spokanite (Spokanarian?) friend explained that it's always that way.

The menu is typical pub fare - again, nothing unusual.

Their attempt at re-creating Bourbon St. with vine-covered wrought iron gates, brick floors and walls makes up for the non-descript, industrial park entrance sitting next to a warehouse that appears to be under terminal construction.

But, as I said, with only 2 brewpubs in town - the faux New Orleans decor and the promise of the river make this beer place a must stop if, for nothing else, to sample and decide for yourself.

Wednesday 2nd of April 2008 06:32:43 PM

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It's hard to find the building and, when you do find it and walk in, it's hard to find the actual bar. Strange place, but still pretty good.
I've been here three times now but have yet to try the food. The beers are my main interest, and I like what I've had.
Three of the varieties are bottled and can be purchased at the brewpub or at several stores around town. Or, of course, growlers are available.
Staff is nice, although maybe a bit bored and disgruntled. The place rarely has much of a crowd, maybe because of its odd location, but they seem to get a good crowd.
My favorite is, of course, the IPA, which, although not mind-blowing, is still pretty good.

Tuesday 25th of September 2007 04:34:35 PM

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I have visited here a number of times and I’m happy to say it seems to be improving each time.

The Northern Lights is located in a large old building complex hard by the river and the Gonzaga campus. The complex also includes several other restaurants and businesses.

The actual bar seats about 20 with tables for another 80 or so. It seems that they seat large groups out in the common area of the building. They have several TVs, so it is a decent place to catch the game. It is also smoke free and they offer growlers to go.

Most of the crowd seems to be locals and several came in for a beer and a growler to go. I had several nice conversations with the customers. I was impressed with how friendly everyone was.

They had 10 beers on tap and all were decent. The service has improved with each visit.

The menu while having the pub staples, also offered some nice PNW specialties. I like the fish & chips I ordered.

I’m sure I will return during my next visit to Spokane. Worth a stop