Bewilder Brewery, Salt Lake City UT

I was telling the guy at Bewilder how much different SLC looked from the last time I was here (frankly, I’m surprised I can even remember back that far) and he was saying how many breweries have popped up here just within the past five years – there are far more than I was aware of from a quick web search! Bewilder themselves only opened in late 2019.

Bewilder seemed like a good choice, and so it was. I had to circle the block because I missed the (somewhat hidden) parking lot entrance the first time past, but once there, it’s a nice, open place with covered outdoor seating as well. It was just too hot to sit outside, though.

There were very few people there when I arrived about 2:45pm, and even fewer when I left an hour later, but that’s fine with me! I started with a flight of four which I’ll describe from left to right:

The Sierra Americana is a 5% American Pale Ale that was quite pleasant; this was one I think I could have drunk all day. I was really tempted to get a pint of it …

Their Bewilder ESB, also at 5%, was good, but much milder than I normally expect from an ESB. I certainly liked it, but it wasn’t memorable enough to go back to on this visit.

The Kölsch (also 5%), on the other hand, was one of the tastiest of that style I can remember ever having! In the end, this is the one I went to for a full pint rather than the Sierra Americana, although I do wish I’d had room for them both.

And finally, their Barley Joe Stout on Nitro (again, 5%) finished the flight. This begins with a traditional Dry Irish Stout recipe but adds chocolate and coffee flavors (mostly coffee, to my mouth). It was good, but didn’t push the right buttons on this 96º day.

I discovered after the fact that they make their own sausages; if I’d know that at the time, I would have had one of those menu options. Instead, I got the Rachel with potato salad, and it was excellent.

This was a pleasant visit and definitely a place I wouldn’t mind visiting again if I ever find myself in SLC (doubtful, but you never know).