I stumbled across a microbrewery a year or so ago, near the shore of Lake Michigan in Michigan City, Indiana, that I liked so well it’s sure to become a regular stop whenever I pass through the area. That it’s popular among locals, packed both times I’ve been there on the weekend, is no wonder, as the brew is good and the food unique and delicious.
I know I should taste a variety of food, but I so enjoyed the SSLT (Smoked Salmon, Lettuce and Tomato) the first time I was there, I had to have it again on my next visit. The smoked salmon, fried crisp and tasting just like bacon but without the greasiness, is topped with provolone, mixed greens, and tomatoes and served on marble rye toast slathered with citrus dill aioli. I chose Shoreline Veggie Chips as my side, a mix of white potatoes, sweet potatoes and beets sliced thin and fried crisp. The beet chips have a sweetness to them and taste nothing like the beets I’ve always known. I’d bet that even those who turn a nose up at boiled or steamed beets would love the beet chips.
Other unique twists on usual lunchtime meals include Shoreline Mac, made with applewood bacon, caramelized onion and roasted garlic four cheese béchame, or the Philly Cheesesteak, prime rib topped with fire roasted peppers, caramelized onions, Chihuahua cheese, and crisp jalapenos. If you’re in the mood for a simple burger, you can have that too, but even the burger is beyond ordinary, made with Angus beef, topped with caramelized onions and Pale Ale Stone Ground Mustard, served on a buttered pretzel roll.
Of course, it’s hard to go to a brewery without ordering a brew. With twelve beers on tap, you’re sure to find one that suits you. If you aren’t sure, order a flight of six, ranging from light to dark, and do a taste test. Read the descriptions and see if you can detect the citrus or the chocolate or whatever special ingredient is in each.
Located in a former factory at 208 Wasbash Street in Michigan City, Indiana, near the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets Mall, the building makes a great setting for a brewery, with open ceilings and plenty of space for high tops, booths and a long bar, the ubiquitous TVs hanging here and there and a genuine fun atmosphere. A separate room has ideal seating for families.
On my next visit to the Shoreline Brewery, I’d like to try something different, as tempted as I’ll be to order the SSLT again, but whatever I order, it’ll be with a side of veggie chips.
Shoreline Brewery serves food seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Check the web site for the full menu, bar hours and special events.
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