Bells is good but Founders is great. Grand Rapids has really turned out to be a fun city with many things to do.
Nick - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids is so uptight. Lots of rich people turning up their nose at craft brews from anywhere else. Honestly, that city never impresses me when I visit. Kalamazoo is so much more welcoming and their brews, especially IPA's, top out in quality over GR any day. Much more flavor creativity. KALAMAZOO all the way!
Bea Ermaker - 11 years ago
Yeah Andy, your a little backward. Bells has never considered moving to GR. What your thinking of is Arcadia, which was based in Battle Creek, but is moving to Kalamazoo.
Scramopolis - 11 years ago
The beer coming out of Grand Rapids is great, but as far as being "Beer City" GR is a little too uptight. Kalamazoo is a much better town for beer tourism.
Bell's Lover - 11 years ago
Hey Andy.....Ummmm...not sure where you got your info from....but Bell's is DEFINATELY not going to put a brewery in GR....we will sell beer at the GR airport, but never a brewery in GR.
Randy Finch - 11 years ago
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BMQ6cc5DJs
David Selmon - 11 years ago
GR Beer baby.
sethtb101 - 11 years ago
A lot of hatred towards GR. That's sad. The only thing I want to address is the comments about people who are voting for GR haven't been or tried thebeers from ghe other cities. I have traveled and i have tried most of them. GR is the best hands down. They are all amazing cities and breweries. That's why they're on this list, but GR runs the full spectrum. From homebrewers all the way up the festivals.
Bill W. - 11 years ago
GR - Beer City USA
Andy - 11 years ago
Kalamazoo is ok but everyone should know Bells going to build a restaurant in the GR Airport and also has plans to build a brewery in Grand Rapids. Also New Holland is putting a brewery in GR in soon too so it's an easy choice. Grand Rapids for the win!
Greg Sullivan - 11 years ago
What about Burlington, VT?!?
Greg Sullivan - 11 years ago
What about Burlington, VT?!?
John - 11 years ago
I'm supporting Kalamazoo, MI because I live here and enjoy drinking local beer, especially Bell's. I also respect the quality beer brewing and drinking traditions of many cities around the country, and my vote for Kalamazoo is not a vote against any of them. Let's keep it positive folks - United we stand, drunken we fall. USA! USA! USA!
Ed - 11 years ago
I have nothing but love for my new hometown of Kalamazoo, and the beer culture here is amazing, but I have to give Beer City USA honors to my old hometown of Grand Rapids. GR hasmany good breweries and great beer festivals not to get top honors. If anyone wants to argue the point with me, they're welcome to meet me at Bell's and we'll do it over a couple pints.
Kathy - 11 years ago
And what about the fact that Grand Rapids, MI has the FIRST LEED CERTIFIED Brewery in the USA!!! We ARE "Beer City, USA" without doubt! Undeniably...Grand Rapids, MI has this sewed up! Sorry, competitors...
Nothing like having a nice cold Brew in Kalamazoo. You better believe our band's music is influenced by the great Beer of the great city of Kalamazoo! combatcorduroy.com
Rigged - 11 years ago
I'm not saying Kzoo doesn't make good beer. But the only reason it's on this list is to take votes away from GR. 3 MI on the list is awesome, but it's just fragmenting the vote.
Pearl Wilson - 11 years ago
Fruck the BS!!! K A L A M A Z O O in this BITCH!!!!!!! I'm goin zoo cuz we drink the most brew out of anyone, just come to my crib and peep the front porch. I fux with Bells but we be drankin 4 0's of Olde E and 24s of Becks and shit. Grand Rapids just ain't got it like we do yooooooooooo. HATE HATE HATE
Mojo mom - 11 years ago
We were down South this Spring and I just have to say, there are many things the South does better but beer is not one of them. Grand Rapids all the way!
dean - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids mich all the way yes
Jim - 11 years ago
I'll just provide a mega-dittos for Sean's comment on the vitriol. It has no place here. Here's to great craft beer produced here in the US of A!
Brotherbryan - 11 years ago
OK beer peeps, enough with the "my beer city can beat up your beer city nonsense" - - Think of this as a celebration of all the tasty goodness that is craft beer and the cities that embrace these wonderful creations. I notice that St. Louis is not on the list - - and for that, we can be thankful.
Steve B. - 11 years ago
BrianDV - these are *opinions* so saying people who pick Grand Rapids don't "know what they are talking about" is silly. I've lived in both places within the past 5 years, and the beer community in Grand Rapids is at least as strong as it is in Kzoo. In fact, I think it is stronger. Bell's makes great beer. Founders makes great beer. When you get past those two, Grand Rapids has the edge, in my opinion. Both are good, but as someone who is very familiar with both, I think Grand Rapids is better. More options, better options, and a far better downtown.
Becky Keith - 11 years ago
Love gr beer!
Liz - 11 years ago
Argue all you like, but the votes will tell all...
...that Grand Rapids will remain Beer City USA.
Sarah - 11 years ago
Kalamazoo hands down! Ask the brewers at your favorite Grand Rapids brewery where they first got their start in brewing...betting the answer is Bell's! Bell's kicked off the craft beer movement in Michigan and deserves to be recognized for it.
Kristina - 11 years ago
While of course my vote goes to the Zoo, I just want to say...
HOORAY for Michigan Beer!
Thank you.
Bryan - 11 years ago
GO GRAND RAPIDS!
Steve84 - 11 years ago
Sue O. said it the best. When you take out everybody just voting for their hometown, Grand Rapids wins with all of the awards they've received. I'll admit to never having been to Asheville, so I'll leave that comparison to those who have. As for GR vs. Kalamazoo, I don't think it's even close. GR in a landslide.
Adam Laucher - 11 years ago
So happy to see Kzoo in the running this year. Next year Durham,NC!
Brandon - 11 years ago
Kalamazoo is the true and original Beer City USA!
BrianDV - 11 years ago
Anyone who thinks or says GR is more of a beer city than KZoo clearly does not know what they are talking about. Half of the breweries in GR have just been established in the last 3yrs. Yes founders is amazing, but they don't brew anywhere near the capacity of what Bells does. And Bells isn't the only brewery in the zoo, shit practically every bar in Kzoo has their own brews. Grand Rapids is 5 times the size so you may find more breweries but not per sq mile. Not to mention the passion everyone here in KZoo has for beer. I grew up in grand rapids and moved to Kalamazoo 7 years ago.GR has nothing on Kalamazoo as far as brews.
Lynda - 11 years ago
Nothing wrong with GR beers, I like quite a few of them. Bell's has been around longer than those in GR, and with 5 more breweries coming to Kalamazoo this year, hmmm let's see now... Sounds like Kalamazoo deserves this one. Love the zoo!
Marguex Bouwkamp - 11 years ago
Go Grand Rapids!
Andy - 11 years ago
It's funny how many people that comment on this poll against Grand Rapids and/or Michigan but if you would just invest about 5 minutes researching you will find sufficient information supporting this vote for Grand Rapids (USA Today, Brewers Association, ect.) Bells and Founders are larger in sales than any brewery in NC (Craft beer and overall brewing). I believe Sue O did a great job with this note: "Beyond a "popularity contest" with each city voting for itself, whether beer accolades are deserved or not... This year's RateBeer.com rankings include: #1 brewpub in the US ~ Hopcat (GR); best beer retailer in the US ~ Siciliano's Market (GR); best brewery in Michigan ~ Founders (GR); and best beer in the state ~ Founders Kentucky Breakfast Stout (GR). And, for innovation, how about the Midwest's first USDA Certified Organic brewery ~ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. (GR). And while it's true that AA/Ypsi has the MI Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival (easy to drink beer when it's warm out), how about the Winter Beer Festival in a GR minor league ball park parking lot, in late February, NO MATTER WHAT THE WEATHER ~ now there's a true test of a beer drinker's deep desire to brave the elements to drink his or her favorite beverage. And they flock to GR every year in ever larger numbers." However the vote turns out, we all should be proud of the people that craft and distribute these outstanding beers to all of us!
Sean - 11 years ago
I find the vitriol towards other cities in this poll to be sad. The culture of Beer is one that is welcome and opening. It is about sharing a brew with someone, meeting people, making new friends and exploring. Most people haven't traveled beyond their own town and have little frame of reference on other town's beer cultures. Yep. I am partial to Grand Rapids, because the beer culture there is amazing - does that mean I think every other city and their beer is garbage? Not at all.
In the Immortal words of Charlie Papazian - "Relax. Don't worry. Have a homebrew." (Or in this case a craft brew). Every city on this list makes great beer. None of them are garbage. I feel like the negativity happening here goes directly against the Craft beer culture.
ArtsKzoo - 11 years ago
Kalamazoo is the only choice for Beer City USA. Thumbs up to Carl...he said it all!
Brian B - 11 years ago
Kalamazoo. We have Bells and Old Peninsula. Not to mention Arcadia Brewery expantion. Also several others in the plans. Bells the 7th largest microbrewery and in top 20 overall for brewery size.
Matt - 11 years ago
Asheville has only gotten stronger with Wicked Weed having opened and the new Oskar Blues facility. With Sierra Nevada and New Belgium opening sites soon along with all the other breweries that have been there for years, it's Asheville again! Can't wait to be there at the end of May for Asheville Beer Week!
emtp1124 - 11 years ago
KZOO, Saugatuck, GR, Ann Arbor, Muskegon with two on the horizon in a couple months...Pigeon Hill and Uruly Brewing (community brewing facility), the list for MICHIGAN is endelss. If It has to be a city, I say GR. The West Michigan area, including Kalamazoo (yes, I love bells too, agree on fixing oberon recipe) is the destination for any beer lover. Unfortuntely it must be a city. It should be a region and West Michigan is the beer capital of the craft brew industry. There isn't a single area that could compare. GR is my vote because of all of West Michigan's brewing cutlure, talent and brew! I have no loyalties to a brewery, just to the art of brewing. This is a huge tourism boost for us in West Michigan!
tonyj - 11 years ago
Grand rapids is the meeting ground for tons of great breweries in the area. In walking distance from the middle I can go to at least 10 breweries in only 30 minutes. Not to mention all of the bars and restaurants that incorporate craft in their establishments and their food creations. Brewery vivant cheese is to die for. Sorry kzoo, you have a decent culture but we just have a little bit more. Just goes to show how far the radius expands.
John - 11 years ago
Go Jax!!!
Beau - 11 years ago
#beer4kzoo
It's ours this year! Go Kzoo!
Brett - 11 years ago
It is very apparent that "Derek" has not actually hung out in Grand Rapids. When I moved here 7.5 years ago from Chicago, I was amazed by the craft beer selection everywhere. Even the smallest bars would have dozens of taps and it was almost hard to find a macro domestic (usually they just carry those in bottles are reserve the taps for craft beers...mostly local). That theme has not changed except for getting more craft beer heavy as Grand Rapids, the state of Michigan, and the entire nation continue to up the variety and quality of craft beer.
Chris - 11 years ago
Cheers to Kalamazoo!
Suydam - 11 years ago
When I try to vote from my mobile phone it tells me I've already voted. Boo.
Evan - 11 years ago
I'm going to have to give it to GR. Yeah, Kalamazoo has Bell's, but GR has Founder's, so that argument is invalid. Not to mention all the other outstanding breweries in the city. I could not be more excited to try all the brews GR has to offer when I move there next month.
Herb Arnold - 11 years ago
Asheville, NC has the most unique tasting and packaged beers in the country. And the breweries are funky and fantastic! Beer has definitely been made more fun and interesting due to the Asheville, NC influence.
Kb - 11 years ago
I don't understand all of the GR folks discouraging a vote for Kzoo. I live an equal distance to both cities and they both have amazing craft beers. In my mind this poll is about culture more than # of breweries. Kzoo has an incredible homebrew culture and an older more established beer community. There was a time when Kzoo was brewing beers and many cities and townships around the GR metro area were still debating Sunday alcohol sales.
Hollis - 11 years ago
Asheville is Beer City, most of my friends home brew better beer than the Big 3 Breweries.
Derek - 11 years ago
In response to Andy, there are 6 breweries directly downtown Asheville all within walking distance of each other. There are also a few peppered outside of the downtown area.
Sue O has correctly stated the most compelling reasons that lead to Grand Rapids as Beer City, USA!
Ashley - 11 years ago
GR!
Will it be possible for us to see the current results as more folks vote?
grnurse - 11 years ago
San Diego may have many breweries, but consider the source of their water and the source of Grand Rapids water. Having tasted both many times, it's no wonder that G.R. beer is so delicious and S.D. beer tastes like, well, the water it's made with. Top that off with TH e health warnings about toxic levels of heavy metals,etc and the fact that almost everyone in San Diego drinks water that's trucked in and Lake Michigan water comes out a clear winner!
Kalamazoo Kev - 11 years ago
We were original investors with Larry Bell, and though Scottsdale/Tempe is a beer lover's paradise, agree that the Zoo IS Beer City USA! GR? Phhhhht!
Bri - 11 years ago
Sue, don't for get Michigans only LEED certified certified brewery; Brewery Vivant!
Kelsey - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids!
Derek - 11 years ago
A few things to post here. One, I'm glad Kalamazoo has entered in the running for Beer City. That way, Grand Rapids Beer fans can no longer use Bell's in their argument to sway voters towards Grand Rapids. And two, I can't speak for every city on the list but having spent over two years in Asheville, NC (3 time reigning Beer City) and living in Grand Rapids (reigning Beer City) it is absolutely NO CONTEST between the two. Asheville wins hands down. Beer is a culture in Asheville. I'm not talking about going to the breweries themselves but walking into a restaurant in Asheville, many of them don't even carry typical domestics and they look at you funny when you do try to order something other than a craft beer. Conversely, in Grand Rapids, that is the first thing you are told when you ask about "beer specials." They immediately tell you a long list of domestics they have and then on a side note, will supply you with a few craft beers. This is my reason for casting my vote for Asheville once again this year.
Paul - 11 years ago
GR
I was in Asheville two years ago, and it was not comparable to what is going on in Grand Rapids. And while I love Kzoo, sorry, GR is the king
Joe - 11 years ago
Kzoo is garbage.
Andy - 11 years ago
I was in San Diego, Portland, and Seattle less than a month ago and I put my vote in for Grand Rapids. Over the course of 12 hours in GR I was able to walk to five different breweries. WALK. I couldn't do that in any of the cities mentioned above. I have never been to Ashville so due to my ignorance I cannot vote for that fine city. GR is beer city USA without question.
Sue O. - 11 years ago
Beyond a "popularity contest" with each city voting for itself, whether beer accolades are deserved or not... This year's RateBeer.com rankings include: #1 brewpub in the US ~ Hopcat (GR); best beer retailer in the US ~ Siciliano's Market (GR); best brewery in Michigan ~ Founders (GR); and best beer in the state ~ Founders Kentucky Breakfast Stout (GR). And, for innovation, how about the Midwest's first USDA Certified Organic brewery ~ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. (GR). And while it's true that AA/Ypsi has the MI Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival (easy to drink beer when it's warm out), how about the Winter Beer Festival in a GR minor league ball park parking lot, in late February, NO MATTER WHAT THE WEATHER ~ now there's a true test of a beer drinker's deep desire to brave the elements to drink his or her favorite beverage. And they flock to GR every year in ever larger numbers.
Joshua - 11 years ago
Just because people drink beer in a city doesn't make it a beer city. Bell's is alright, but the actual facility that they brew and bottle l the beer in is in Comstock.
Farrell - 11 years ago
@Tim Hoffman - incorrect, perhaps you haven't heard that Arcadia chose Kalamazoo for their next new location, right next to Bell's? We have a LOT of breweries in Kalamazoo, many of them that are BRAND NEW to Kalamazoo. Like: Gonzo's BiggDogg Brewing and Boatyard Brewing Company are two of the newest ones and there are more that have just recently leased space. Old Peninsula brews their own beer, as does Bilbos. This is just a FEW expamples. Read about Kalamazoo's history as a Beer City to see why we are on this list: http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20121118/NEWS13/121119479/1181
Eric - 11 years ago
I absolutely love Bells. If we're choosing a single brewery, I'd have to give Kalamazoo a good, hard look. But I'd caution Kalamazoo against counting Arcadia to its tally, as there isn't a beer there that I'd choose over a similar style from Bells, Founders, New Holland, Harmony, Vivant, etc.
Lisa - 11 years ago
Kalamazoo!!! Growing fast with lots of great places to grab a great beer!!!
Ben - 11 years ago
SW Mich native that moved to Portland,OR. While I love the beer of Michigan and grew up on it. Portland, OR puts it to shame ;)
CC - 11 years ago
Asheville of course!
Dan - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids!! Kalamazoo is practically one of its suburbs....no need for division
Jeremy - 11 years ago
Kzoo Baby
Ricky - 11 years ago
I've lived in Kzoo and GR so I have a good grasp on both. I love Bell's and the Eccentric Cafe but GR has so much more going on and it gets my vote. Take away the beer juggernaut Founders and GR is still a major player in craft brewing with Brewery Vivant, Perrin, Harmony and GRBC among the many others (Mitten, The Hideout, White Flame, Rockford, Schmohz, etc). Anywhere in the area, one is a short drive from a great brewery. The same can't be said for Kzoo, despite Bell's plus the couple other breweries downtown.
Josh - 11 years ago
Vote for Bell's, I mean Kalamazoo if you want beer that tastes like nothing but hops and no other flavor or you can vote for GR and some real innovative breweries that put their heart and soul into every step of the process.
Joe - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids had 50 home brewers brewing together downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday with free attendance. The mayor even gave a toast, Grand Rapids has a great home brewing culture in addition to the many breweries and brew pubs..
Farrell - 11 years ago
Agree with this: It's more about the number of breweries, but about the beer CULTURE and Kalamazoo has it all the way! -Quoting B: Nobody is splitting their votes, nobody is voting Kalamazoo just to spite GR. We vote Kalamazoo because it really is Beer city USA. It's a culture thing you just wouldn't understand unless your a craft/homebrewer. Just try to buy homebrew supplies in GR. Ever notice that their best supply store has half the selection at twice the price of Bells? Yes there are more breweries in GR, but in Kalamazoo we enjoy quality and culture over quantity.-
Mark F - 11 years ago
Michigan is the beer state. Kalamazoo will always be Beer City!
b - 11 years ago
LOL@ Dwayne. Ever been to Bell's, buddy. It IS in Kalamazoo. They have one location in Comstock and sometimes use that address, but they are based and operate out of Kalamazoo. Don't be afraid to let the facts influence your voting.
Joanne Darling - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids has the best Sat. Was awesome down at the Calder YEAH
Tim Hoffman - 11 years ago
Im a bit worried about the inclusion of Kzoo this year. Im a WMU grad and love Kzoo... but comeon... Grand Rapids is much more a beer city than Kzoo. There's Bell's and really not much else. More breweries opened in GR than Kzoo in the last year and brewers from other Michigan breweries (New Holland, ect.) are coming to GR to open new breweries.. not Kzoo. Let's all band together and not let Asheville take away what is rightfully ours. Beer!
Spencer green - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids
Spencer green - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids
Robin - 11 years ago
Kalamazoo is truly "Beer-City" in Michigan. While Grand rapids may have more breweries, Bell's has been brewing and selling hand-crafted beer since 1985. Founders did not start until 1997. Kalamazoo has been on the cutting edge for craft beer for many years. Bell's has consistently been winning international awards as well.
Lisa - 11 years ago
Grand Rapids (and the West Michigan coast - Our Brewing Company in particular!!)
Correy - 11 years ago
Please do your best not to simply vote with a Homer Ballot. Really consider this. I am from Grand Rapids, and despite what may be considered a Homer bias, I tryuly believe that GR has WAY more options and a far deeper pallet than does any other city in Michigan. I have been to Portland AND Asheville, both worthy candidates. My vote will again go to GR because of the history of beer in GR, the burgeoning homebrew scene, the AHA and the Winter Beer Fest. Founder's is just as good/better than Bell's, and Vivant is becoming a world-class destination and brewing company. I understand the desire to see A2 or Kalamazoo do well here, but if you a logical, non-biased person, you will vote for what makes sense, not what makes you happy. Go Grand Rapids, you are on your way to being one of the top 3 beer destinations in the country.
LIttle Johnny - 11 years ago
Asheville gets my vote AGAIN this year.......and lemme tell 'ya why.
Without question, the beers in Asheville are talkative, but not chatty. They can be sublime without being understated, approachable but not easy, definitive though nuanced, and finally....they are provocative yet mysterious. It's pretty simple when you do the math.
Any further questions? No? Thanks, and have a great day.
Nina - 11 years ago
If you like beer, you need to come here! GRAND RAPIDS...BEER CITY USA
Tory Balulis - 11 years ago
GR should win this year
Anon - 11 years ago
San Diego currently has 68 breweries and continues to win the most medals of ANY city in the US at the GABF and WBC every year. love your passion Michiganders..but no other city in the US can even compare to SD. Even if you tried to compare.. Portland, Seattle, and Denver still kill GR.
david - 11 years ago
Asheville- we can walk, bike, or canoe/float to multiple establishments in one day...(in a year or so we will be able to float from Sierra Nevada to New Belgium!) The venues of Pisgah and Highland Breweries are unbeatable -Grace Potter at Pisgah was unbelievable!! Wednesday is Motorcycle night at the Wedge with sweet vintage bikes. Many wonderful beers to choose from...all the owners, brewers, and employees are open to discussions and sampling...Beer festivals- Brewgrass, Octoberfest, the list goes on and on...for beer, this is it!
Duane - 11 years ago
Asheville will win because of the inclusion of Kzoo and Ann Arbor. For those of you paying attention, Bell's isn't even in Kzoo
Amber - 11 years ago
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN ALL THE WAY BABY!!! :)
Eric - 11 years ago
I find it funny that Grand Rapids people think that voting for themselves gives them the title of beer city usa. If you look at ANY metric (# of breweries, # of beer drank, # of brew festivals, ... ) Grand Rapids is not even close. This poll is basically people voting for their own city and it kinda pisses me off. Get out to other cities, try their beers, see that your own city, while good, is not the best beer city in the country. I have a lot of respect for Papazian, but this is no way to crown "Beer City USA,"
Kelly - 11 years ago
Love GR
Elizabeth - 11 years ago
Yes, all of Michigan should vote for one location, Kalamazoo. Yes, there really is a Kalamazoo and we love our community and our craft beer brewers whether they are a brewery, brewpub, or in the garage.
Grand Rapids beer!
Bells is good but Founders is great. Grand Rapids has really turned out to be a fun city with many things to do.
Grand Rapids is so uptight. Lots of rich people turning up their nose at craft brews from anywhere else. Honestly, that city never impresses me when I visit. Kalamazoo is so much more welcoming and their brews, especially IPA's, top out in quality over GR any day. Much more flavor creativity. KALAMAZOO all the way!
Yeah Andy, your a little backward. Bells has never considered moving to GR. What your thinking of is Arcadia, which was based in Battle Creek, but is moving to Kalamazoo.
The beer coming out of Grand Rapids is great, but as far as being "Beer City" GR is a little too uptight. Kalamazoo is a much better town for beer tourism.
Hey Andy.....Ummmm...not sure where you got your info from....but Bell's is DEFINATELY not going to put a brewery in GR....we will sell beer at the GR airport, but never a brewery in GR.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BMQ6cc5DJs
GR Beer baby.
A lot of hatred towards GR. That's sad. The only thing I want to address is the comments about people who are voting for GR haven't been or tried thebeers from ghe other cities. I have traveled and i have tried most of them. GR is the best hands down. They are all amazing cities and breweries. That's why they're on this list, but GR runs the full spectrum. From homebrewers all the way up the festivals.
GR - Beer City USA
Kalamazoo is ok but everyone should know Bells going to build a restaurant in the GR Airport and also has plans to build a brewery in Grand Rapids. Also New Holland is putting a brewery in GR in soon too so it's an easy choice. Grand Rapids for the win!
What about Burlington, VT?!?
What about Burlington, VT?!?
I'm supporting Kalamazoo, MI because I live here and enjoy drinking local beer, especially Bell's. I also respect the quality beer brewing and drinking traditions of many cities around the country, and my vote for Kalamazoo is not a vote against any of them. Let's keep it positive folks - United we stand, drunken we fall. USA! USA! USA!
I have nothing but love for my new hometown of Kalamazoo, and the beer culture here is amazing, but I have to give Beer City USA honors to my old hometown of Grand Rapids. GR hasmany good breweries and great beer festivals not to get top honors. If anyone wants to argue the point with me, they're welcome to meet me at Bell's and we'll do it over a couple pints.
And what about the fact that Grand Rapids, MI has the FIRST LEED CERTIFIED Brewery in the USA!!! We ARE "Beer City, USA" without doubt! Undeniably...Grand Rapids, MI has this sewed up! Sorry, competitors...
Nothing like having a nice cold Brew in Kalamazoo. You better believe our band's music is influenced by the great Beer of the great city of Kalamazoo! combatcorduroy.com
I'm not saying Kzoo doesn't make good beer. But the only reason it's on this list is to take votes away from GR. 3 MI on the list is awesome, but it's just fragmenting the vote.
Fruck the BS!!! K A L A M A Z O O in this BITCH!!!!!!! I'm goin zoo cuz we drink the most brew out of anyone, just come to my crib and peep the front porch. I fux with Bells but we be drankin 4 0's of Olde E and 24s of Becks and shit. Grand Rapids just ain't got it like we do yooooooooooo. HATE HATE HATE
We were down South this Spring and I just have to say, there are many things the South does better but beer is not one of them. Grand Rapids all the way!
Grand Rapids mich all the way yes
I'll just provide a mega-dittos for Sean's comment on the vitriol. It has no place here. Here's to great craft beer produced here in the US of A!
OK beer peeps, enough with the "my beer city can beat up your beer city nonsense" - - Think of this as a celebration of all the tasty goodness that is craft beer and the cities that embrace these wonderful creations. I notice that St. Louis is not on the list - - and for that, we can be thankful.
BrianDV - these are *opinions* so saying people who pick Grand Rapids don't "know what they are talking about" is silly. I've lived in both places within the past 5 years, and the beer community in Grand Rapids is at least as strong as it is in Kzoo. In fact, I think it is stronger. Bell's makes great beer. Founders makes great beer. When you get past those two, Grand Rapids has the edge, in my opinion. Both are good, but as someone who is very familiar with both, I think Grand Rapids is better. More options, better options, and a far better downtown.
Love gr beer!
Argue all you like, but the votes will tell all...
...that Grand Rapids will remain Beer City USA.
Kalamazoo hands down! Ask the brewers at your favorite Grand Rapids brewery where they first got their start in brewing...betting the answer is Bell's! Bell's kicked off the craft beer movement in Michigan and deserves to be recognized for it.
While of course my vote goes to the Zoo, I just want to say...
HOORAY for Michigan Beer!
Thank you.
GO GRAND RAPIDS!
Sue O. said it the best. When you take out everybody just voting for their hometown, Grand Rapids wins with all of the awards they've received. I'll admit to never having been to Asheville, so I'll leave that comparison to those who have. As for GR vs. Kalamazoo, I don't think it's even close. GR in a landslide.
So happy to see Kzoo in the running this year. Next year Durham,NC!
Kalamazoo is the true and original Beer City USA!
Anyone who thinks or says GR is more of a beer city than KZoo clearly does not know what they are talking about. Half of the breweries in GR have just been established in the last 3yrs. Yes founders is amazing, but they don't brew anywhere near the capacity of what Bells does. And Bells isn't the only brewery in the zoo, shit practically every bar in Kzoo has their own brews. Grand Rapids is 5 times the size so you may find more breweries but not per sq mile. Not to mention the passion everyone here in KZoo has for beer. I grew up in grand rapids and moved to Kalamazoo 7 years ago.GR has nothing on Kalamazoo as far as brews.
Nothing wrong with GR beers, I like quite a few of them. Bell's has been around longer than those in GR, and with 5 more breweries coming to Kalamazoo this year, hmmm let's see now... Sounds like Kalamazoo deserves this one. Love the zoo!
Go Grand Rapids!
It's funny how many people that comment on this poll against Grand Rapids and/or Michigan but if you would just invest about 5 minutes researching you will find sufficient information supporting this vote for Grand Rapids (USA Today, Brewers Association, ect.) Bells and Founders are larger in sales than any brewery in NC (Craft beer and overall brewing). I believe Sue O did a great job with this note: "Beyond a "popularity contest" with each city voting for itself, whether beer accolades are deserved or not... This year's RateBeer.com rankings include: #1 brewpub in the US ~ Hopcat (GR); best beer retailer in the US ~ Siciliano's Market (GR); best brewery in Michigan ~ Founders (GR); and best beer in the state ~ Founders Kentucky Breakfast Stout (GR). And, for innovation, how about the Midwest's first USDA Certified Organic brewery ~ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. (GR). And while it's true that AA/Ypsi has the MI Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival (easy to drink beer when it's warm out), how about the Winter Beer Festival in a GR minor league ball park parking lot, in late February, NO MATTER WHAT THE WEATHER ~ now there's a true test of a beer drinker's deep desire to brave the elements to drink his or her favorite beverage. And they flock to GR every year in ever larger numbers." However the vote turns out, we all should be proud of the people that craft and distribute these outstanding beers to all of us!
I find the vitriol towards other cities in this poll to be sad. The culture of Beer is one that is welcome and opening. It is about sharing a brew with someone, meeting people, making new friends and exploring. Most people haven't traveled beyond their own town and have little frame of reference on other town's beer cultures. Yep. I am partial to Grand Rapids, because the beer culture there is amazing - does that mean I think every other city and their beer is garbage? Not at all.
In the Immortal words of Charlie Papazian - "Relax. Don't worry. Have a homebrew." (Or in this case a craft brew). Every city on this list makes great beer. None of them are garbage. I feel like the negativity happening here goes directly against the Craft beer culture.
Kalamazoo is the only choice for Beer City USA. Thumbs up to Carl...he said it all!
Kalamazoo. We have Bells and Old Peninsula. Not to mention Arcadia Brewery expantion. Also several others in the plans. Bells the 7th largest microbrewery and in top 20 overall for brewery size.
Asheville has only gotten stronger with Wicked Weed having opened and the new Oskar Blues facility. With Sierra Nevada and New Belgium opening sites soon along with all the other breweries that have been there for years, it's Asheville again! Can't wait to be there at the end of May for Asheville Beer Week!
KZOO, Saugatuck, GR, Ann Arbor, Muskegon with two on the horizon in a couple months...Pigeon Hill and Uruly Brewing (community brewing facility), the list for MICHIGAN is endelss. If It has to be a city, I say GR. The West Michigan area, including Kalamazoo (yes, I love bells too, agree on fixing oberon recipe) is the destination for any beer lover. Unfortuntely it must be a city. It should be a region and West Michigan is the beer capital of the craft brew industry. There isn't a single area that could compare. GR is my vote because of all of West Michigan's brewing cutlure, talent and brew! I have no loyalties to a brewery, just to the art of brewing. This is a huge tourism boost for us in West Michigan!
Grand rapids is the meeting ground for tons of great breweries in the area. In walking distance from the middle I can go to at least 10 breweries in only 30 minutes. Not to mention all of the bars and restaurants that incorporate craft in their establishments and their food creations. Brewery vivant cheese is to die for. Sorry kzoo, you have a decent culture but we just have a little bit more. Just goes to show how far the radius expands.
Go Jax!!!
#beer4kzoo
It's ours this year! Go Kzoo!
It is very apparent that "Derek" has not actually hung out in Grand Rapids. When I moved here 7.5 years ago from Chicago, I was amazed by the craft beer selection everywhere. Even the smallest bars would have dozens of taps and it was almost hard to find a macro domestic (usually they just carry those in bottles are reserve the taps for craft beers...mostly local). That theme has not changed except for getting more craft beer heavy as Grand Rapids, the state of Michigan, and the entire nation continue to up the variety and quality of craft beer.
Cheers to Kalamazoo!
When I try to vote from my mobile phone it tells me I've already voted. Boo.
I'm going to have to give it to GR. Yeah, Kalamazoo has Bell's, but GR has Founder's, so that argument is invalid. Not to mention all the other outstanding breweries in the city. I could not be more excited to try all the brews GR has to offer when I move there next month.
Asheville, NC has the most unique tasting and packaged beers in the country. And the breweries are funky and fantastic! Beer has definitely been made more fun and interesting due to the Asheville, NC influence.
I don't understand all of the GR folks discouraging a vote for Kzoo. I live an equal distance to both cities and they both have amazing craft beers. In my mind this poll is about culture more than # of breweries. Kzoo has an incredible homebrew culture and an older more established beer community. There was a time when Kzoo was brewing beers and many cities and townships around the GR metro area were still debating Sunday alcohol sales.
Asheville is Beer City, most of my friends home brew better beer than the Big 3 Breweries.
In response to Andy, there are 6 breweries directly downtown Asheville all within walking distance of each other. There are also a few peppered outside of the downtown area.
Sue O has correctly stated the most compelling reasons that lead to Grand Rapids as Beer City, USA!
GR!
Will it be possible for us to see the current results as more folks vote?
San Diego may have many breweries, but consider the source of their water and the source of Grand Rapids water. Having tasted both many times, it's no wonder that G.R. beer is so delicious and S.D. beer tastes like, well, the water it's made with. Top that off with TH e health warnings about toxic levels of heavy metals,etc and the fact that almost everyone in San Diego drinks water that's trucked in and Lake Michigan water comes out a clear winner!
We were original investors with Larry Bell, and though Scottsdale/Tempe is a beer lover's paradise, agree that the Zoo IS Beer City USA! GR? Phhhhht!
Sue, don't for get Michigans only LEED certified certified brewery; Brewery Vivant!
Grand Rapids!
A few things to post here. One, I'm glad Kalamazoo has entered in the running for Beer City. That way, Grand Rapids Beer fans can no longer use Bell's in their argument to sway voters towards Grand Rapids. And two, I can't speak for every city on the list but having spent over two years in Asheville, NC (3 time reigning Beer City) and living in Grand Rapids (reigning Beer City) it is absolutely NO CONTEST between the two. Asheville wins hands down. Beer is a culture in Asheville. I'm not talking about going to the breweries themselves but walking into a restaurant in Asheville, many of them don't even carry typical domestics and they look at you funny when you do try to order something other than a craft beer. Conversely, in Grand Rapids, that is the first thing you are told when you ask about "beer specials." They immediately tell you a long list of domestics they have and then on a side note, will supply you with a few craft beers. This is my reason for casting my vote for Asheville once again this year.
GR
I was in Asheville two years ago, and it was not comparable to what is going on in Grand Rapids. And while I love Kzoo, sorry, GR is the king
Kzoo is garbage.
I was in San Diego, Portland, and Seattle less than a month ago and I put my vote in for Grand Rapids. Over the course of 12 hours in GR I was able to walk to five different breweries. WALK. I couldn't do that in any of the cities mentioned above. I have never been to Ashville so due to my ignorance I cannot vote for that fine city. GR is beer city USA without question.
Beyond a "popularity contest" with each city voting for itself, whether beer accolades are deserved or not... This year's RateBeer.com rankings include: #1 brewpub in the US ~ Hopcat (GR); best beer retailer in the US ~ Siciliano's Market (GR); best brewery in Michigan ~ Founders (GR); and best beer in the state ~ Founders Kentucky Breakfast Stout (GR). And, for innovation, how about the Midwest's first USDA Certified Organic brewery ~ Grand Rapids Brewing Co. (GR). And while it's true that AA/Ypsi has the MI Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival (easy to drink beer when it's warm out), how about the Winter Beer Festival in a GR minor league ball park parking lot, in late February, NO MATTER WHAT THE WEATHER ~ now there's a true test of a beer drinker's deep desire to brave the elements to drink his or her favorite beverage. And they flock to GR every year in ever larger numbers.
Just because people drink beer in a city doesn't make it a beer city. Bell's is alright, but the actual facility that they brew and bottle l the beer in is in Comstock.
@Tim Hoffman - incorrect, perhaps you haven't heard that Arcadia chose Kalamazoo for their next new location, right next to Bell's? We have a LOT of breweries in Kalamazoo, many of them that are BRAND NEW to Kalamazoo. Like: Gonzo's BiggDogg Brewing and Boatyard Brewing Company are two of the newest ones and there are more that have just recently leased space. Old Peninsula brews their own beer, as does Bilbos. This is just a FEW expamples. Read about Kalamazoo's history as a Beer City to see why we are on this list: http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20121118/NEWS13/121119479/1181
I absolutely love Bells. If we're choosing a single brewery, I'd have to give Kalamazoo a good, hard look. But I'd caution Kalamazoo against counting Arcadia to its tally, as there isn't a beer there that I'd choose over a similar style from Bells, Founders, New Holland, Harmony, Vivant, etc.
Kalamazoo!!! Growing fast with lots of great places to grab a great beer!!!
SW Mich native that moved to Portland,OR. While I love the beer of Michigan and grew up on it. Portland, OR puts it to shame ;)
Asheville of course!
Grand Rapids!! Kalamazoo is practically one of its suburbs....no need for division
Kzoo Baby
I've lived in Kzoo and GR so I have a good grasp on both. I love Bell's and the Eccentric Cafe but GR has so much more going on and it gets my vote. Take away the beer juggernaut Founders and GR is still a major player in craft brewing with Brewery Vivant, Perrin, Harmony and GRBC among the many others (Mitten, The Hideout, White Flame, Rockford, Schmohz, etc). Anywhere in the area, one is a short drive from a great brewery. The same can't be said for Kzoo, despite Bell's plus the couple other breweries downtown.
Vote for Bell's, I mean Kalamazoo if you want beer that tastes like nothing but hops and no other flavor or you can vote for GR and some real innovative breweries that put their heart and soul into every step of the process.
Grand Rapids had 50 home brewers brewing together downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday with free attendance. The mayor even gave a toast, Grand Rapids has a great home brewing culture in addition to the many breweries and brew pubs..
Agree with this: It's more about the number of breweries, but about the beer CULTURE and Kalamazoo has it all the way! -Quoting B: Nobody is splitting their votes, nobody is voting Kalamazoo just to spite GR. We vote Kalamazoo because it really is Beer city USA. It's a culture thing you just wouldn't understand unless your a craft/homebrewer. Just try to buy homebrew supplies in GR. Ever notice that their best supply store has half the selection at twice the price of Bells? Yes there are more breweries in GR, but in Kalamazoo we enjoy quality and culture over quantity.-
Michigan is the beer state. Kalamazoo will always be Beer City!
LOL@ Dwayne. Ever been to Bell's, buddy. It IS in Kalamazoo. They have one location in Comstock and sometimes use that address, but they are based and operate out of Kalamazoo. Don't be afraid to let the facts influence your voting.
Grand Rapids has the best Sat. Was awesome down at the Calder YEAH
Im a bit worried about the inclusion of Kzoo this year. Im a WMU grad and love Kzoo... but comeon... Grand Rapids is much more a beer city than Kzoo. There's Bell's and really not much else. More breweries opened in GR than Kzoo in the last year and brewers from other Michigan breweries (New Holland, ect.) are coming to GR to open new breweries.. not Kzoo. Let's all band together and not let Asheville take away what is rightfully ours. Beer!
Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids
Kalamazoo is truly "Beer-City" in Michigan. While Grand rapids may have more breweries, Bell's has been brewing and selling hand-crafted beer since 1985. Founders did not start until 1997. Kalamazoo has been on the cutting edge for craft beer for many years. Bell's has consistently been winning international awards as well.
Grand Rapids (and the West Michigan coast - Our Brewing Company in particular!!)
Please do your best not to simply vote with a Homer Ballot. Really consider this. I am from Grand Rapids, and despite what may be considered a Homer bias, I tryuly believe that GR has WAY more options and a far deeper pallet than does any other city in Michigan. I have been to Portland AND Asheville, both worthy candidates. My vote will again go to GR because of the history of beer in GR, the burgeoning homebrew scene, the AHA and the Winter Beer Fest. Founder's is just as good/better than Bell's, and Vivant is becoming a world-class destination and brewing company. I understand the desire to see A2 or Kalamazoo do well here, but if you a logical, non-biased person, you will vote for what makes sense, not what makes you happy. Go Grand Rapids, you are on your way to being one of the top 3 beer destinations in the country.
Asheville gets my vote AGAIN this year.......and lemme tell 'ya why.
Without question, the beers in Asheville are talkative, but not chatty. They can be sublime without being understated, approachable but not easy, definitive though nuanced, and finally....they are provocative yet mysterious. It's pretty simple when you do the math.
Any further questions? No? Thanks, and have a great day.
If you like beer, you need to come here! GRAND RAPIDS...BEER CITY USA
GR should win this year
San Diego currently has 68 breweries and continues to win the most medals of ANY city in the US at the GABF and WBC every year. love your passion Michiganders..but no other city in the US can even compare to SD. Even if you tried to compare.. Portland, Seattle, and Denver still kill GR.
Asheville- we can walk, bike, or canoe/float to multiple establishments in one day...(in a year or so we will be able to float from Sierra Nevada to New Belgium!) The venues of Pisgah and Highland Breweries are unbeatable -Grace Potter at Pisgah was unbelievable!! Wednesday is Motorcycle night at the Wedge with sweet vintage bikes. Many wonderful beers to choose from...all the owners, brewers, and employees are open to discussions and sampling...Beer festivals- Brewgrass, Octoberfest, the list goes on and on...for beer, this is it!
Asheville will win because of the inclusion of Kzoo and Ann Arbor. For those of you paying attention, Bell's isn't even in Kzoo
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN ALL THE WAY BABY!!! :)
I find it funny that Grand Rapids people think that voting for themselves gives them the title of beer city usa. If you look at ANY metric (# of breweries, # of beer drank, # of brew festivals, ... ) Grand Rapids is not even close. This poll is basically people voting for their own city and it kinda pisses me off. Get out to other cities, try their beers, see that your own city, while good, is not the best beer city in the country. I have a lot of respect for Papazian, but this is no way to crown "Beer City USA,"
Love GR
Yes, all of Michigan should vote for one location, Kalamazoo. Yes, there really is a Kalamazoo and we love our community and our craft beer brewers whether they are a brewery, brewpub, or in the garage.
GR, through and through!
I voted for Kalamazoo. Yes I love Grand Rapids but Kalamazoo is all about beer.
Grand Rapids Michigan All Day..... With all the local hop farms and brewery's we deserve to keep GR the beer city of America
Grand Rapids Michigan All Day..... With all the local hop farms and brewery's we deserve to keep GR the beer city of America
Grand Rapids Michigan All Day..... With all the local hop farms and brewery's we deserve to keep GR the beer city of America
Grand Rapids Michigan All Day..... With all the local hop farms and brewery's we deserve to keep GR the beer city of America