Ah, Michigan. The Great Lakes State. Known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and, most importantly (at least for me!), its incredible craft beer scene. Now, I’m Aisling O’Malley, born and raised in Dublin, and while I’ve traded the Guinness for IPAs these days, I still love the warm, inviting atmosphere of a good Irish pub. So, what happens when you combine the best of both worlds? Pure magic, that’s what!

Finding a Taste of Home (with a Michigan Twist)

Listen, moving from Dublin to Michigan was a bit of a culture shock, but a pleasant one. The one thing that helped me feel at home was finding a proper Irish pub. And what’s even better? Discovering that many of these pubs were serving up fantastic local Michigan brews. It’s like a little piece of Ireland with a Midwest makeover.

Top Michigan Craft Beers to Seek Out

Now, I’ve sampled my fair share (a slight understatement, perhaps!), and I’ve compiled a list of Michigan craft beers that pair perfectly with the ambiance and fare of an Irish pub. Forget the generic lagers; these are the real deal. I’ve also included some food pairing suggestions, because, let’s be honest, the food is half the experience!

Bell’s Two Hearted Ale

Okay, let’s start with a classic. Bell’s Two Hearted Ale is, in my humble opinion, one of the best IPAs in the country. This beer is bursting with hop aroma, but it’s not overwhelmingly bitter. It’s surprisingly balanced, making it incredibly drinkable. I honestly don’t think there’s a bad time to have a Two Hearted. But specifically while at an Irish Pub, you want to pair it with something savory.

Pairing Suggestion: Fish and chips. The crispiness of the fish and the saltiness of the chips are a perfect match for the hoppy bite of the Two Hearted. Trust me on this one!

Founders All Day IPA

Sometimes, you want something lighter, something you can sip on throughout the afternoon without feeling weighed down. That’s where Founders All Day IPA comes in. It’s lower in alcohol than most IPAs, but it doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s crisp, refreshing, and packed with citrusy hop notes.

Pairing Suggestion: A Reuben sandwich. The tangy sauerkraut and rich corned beef are beautifully balanced by the All Day IPA’s light body and bright hop profile. It cuts right through the richness, leaving you wanting more…of both!

Short’s Soft Parade

If you’re feeling adventurous, Short’s Soft Parade is a must-try. This fruit rye ale is brewed with blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries. It’s sweet, tart, and incredibly unique. It almost tastes like summer in a glass. I remember the first time I tasted this beer I could not believe it! It was like nothing I have ever tasted before! But I loved it. I am sure you will love it too!

Pairing Suggestion: Bangers and mash. The sweetness of the beer complements the savory sausages and creamy mashed potatoes surprisingly well. It’s an unexpected but delightful combination.

Dark Horse Crooked Tree IPA

For those who like a bit more “oomph” in their IPA, Dark Horse Crooked Tree is the way to go. This beer is aggressively hopped, with a bold, piney aroma and a lingering bitterness. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re a hop head like me, you’ll absolutely love it. However, you must be careful and not get too carried away with drinking this beer, because it is quite strong!

Pairing Suggestion: Shepherd’s pie. The rich, meaty filling and creamy potato topping are a perfect counterpoint to the Crooked Tree’s intense bitterness. It’s a hearty, satisfying pairing that will warm you from the inside out.

Beyond the Beer: The Irish Pub Experience

Of course, enjoying Michigan craft beers at an Irish pub is about more than just the beer itself. It’s about the atmosphere, the camaraderie, and the craic (that’s Irish for “fun,” by the way!). There’s nothing quite like settling into a cozy booth with a pint of local brew, surrounded by the sounds of lively conversation and traditional Irish music. And on St. Patrick’s Day? Well, that’s a whole other level of celebration! Although, I am not the biggest fun of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in the US, because it became so commercialized. But it is what it is!

Conclusion (Cheers!)

So, the next time you find yourself in an Irish pub in Michigan, don’t be afraid to venture beyond the usual suspects and try some of the amazing local craft beers on offer. You might just discover your new favorite pint. And who knows, you might even find a little piece of Ireland in the heart of the Midwest.