The term "growler" takes on two meanings in Riverview.
Not only does The Growler on Hixson Pike get its name from the beer container customers often lug out of the shop, customers can also bring in a framed picture of their dog, or "growler," for a free pint of craft beer. The picture is then added to the rapidly growing collection of pups' portraits on the wall.
General manager Wiley Davis, left, and employee Chris Merzbacher stand in front of the 24 rotating taps featured at The Growler.
Photo by Kelsie BowmanThe Growler has only been in its Riverview location for nearly a year, but it's already gaining a reputation among locals.
"I like the business. People here are so friendly; they make me want to come back," said North Hamilton resident and regular Ben Hobbs.
"Our main clientele are neighborhood people," said general manager Wiley Davis' girlfriend Kelsey Rankin, who works as The Growler's food manager. "They live around here and they walk here."
The cozy neighborhood bar features 24 craft beers on tap, which rotate depending on the season and customer demand. Customers can come in for a pint or to fill up their own growlers with the libation of their choice.
"It's a more economical way to get your beer," Davis explained. "And you get it on tap as opposed to something that's been sitting in a bottle."
Anthony Bond, Davis' cousin and owner of the shop, has big plans for his business, said Davis. He wants to see his shops expand across the country, envisioning it as the "Starbucks of craft beer." Bond also has a shop in Memphis, Tenn.
The Growler offers a full menu of appetizers, including flatbread pizzetta and artisanal cheese; sandwiches like the chicken salad B.L.T. and the grilled pimento cheese; and sides, such as soft pretzels and kettle-cooked chips. For dessert there are beer floats or bacon-toffee popcorn.
"Everything's made in-house," Rankin said.
Customers can also order flights of different craft beers, and Davis said the bar hosts Tap Takeover events during which various breweries are featured.
"It's just to let people know about different beers and breweries out there," he said.
Find out more and stay up to date with upcoming Tap Takeovers here and here. The Growler is at 1101 Hixson Pike, Suite A1, and can be reached at 785-1005.