Previously Featured Location

Winter 2006

The Taphouse Grill

931 W 21st St
Norfolk, VA 23517
(757) 627-9172
Everyday 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
http://www.myspace.com/thetaphouse

The Taphouse Grill is held by many, particularly its regulars, to be the place to find good beer in Hampton Roads. Located between Colley Ave and Hampton Blvd in Norfolk’s midtown neighborhood of Ghent, the Taphouse offers over 75 different kinds of beer, at least 35 of which are on tap. Like most bars in the area, they have the classic pub ales and regional microbrews along with a few ciders, but what truly sets them apart is their diverse selection of hard-to-find European brews, particularly those of the German and Belgian variety. If you aren’t sure what to try, just ask – the staff is always ready to recommend something different if you’re in the mood. The food menu can generally be described as an array of reasonably priced American favorites with the noticeable addition of several vegetarian dishes that are kindly marked as such for your convenience.

Cloaked in simplicity, the dark wood, exposed bricks, and wide wooden bar on the interior give the Taphouse the feel of a typical college pub. The pool room just past the kitchen boasts a jukebox that sees no rest on busier nights. But don’t be fooled – this pub attracts much more than just students. Most sunny days, business professionals of all ages working and living nearby can be found on their outside patio unwinding over a (European size) pint and appetizers. Those coming from outside the neighborhood will also find that parking is almost never a problem with three lots to choose from.

Most Saturday nights and often other nights during the week, the main room will be set up later in the evening (after 9:00 PM) for live music, usually performed by local or regional rock and pop musicians. Indeed, the Taphouse seems to be a place that will transform itself to whatever it is you desire whether that’s loud fun rocking out to a band or just a simple drink with close friends. It’s a local hangout where everyone who walks through the door can’t help but feel like locals themselves.

The Taphouse Grill was the starting location of the 2006 Ghent Winter Bar Tour. All proceeds from the event benefitted the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Eastern Virginia (local Hampton Roads chapter).

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