Microbrew fans passing through my hometown in Chester County make a point to stop at the home of Victory Brewing Co.
Hidden in an industrial block in Downingtown, the brewery isn't very pleasing to the eye from outside, and the parking lot leaves much to be desired; however, recent renovations to the restaurant, bar and menu make Victory worth the hour-and-a-half trip from York County.
As usual, the beer takes center stage (my fav: Golden Monkey). Now, it's featured in a few of the barbecue sauces used on meats cooked on the brewery's new in-house smoker.
The major change Victory veterans will notice is the restaurant's look -- as in, it looks more like a restaurant (think varnished wood paneling and trendy light fixtures), instead of a restaurant in a warehouse. Victory can seat 290 and opened a private dining area that seats 70.
The space is bigger, too. I'm told that means shorter table waits on busy weekend nights. I went on a recent Tuesday and can't complain. I was seated with my family immediately, and our food and drinks were served swiftly.
Another cool addition is "authentic brewery decor" (according to the news release), which includes three shiny, copper brewhouse kettle tops from old German breweries. One shelters a round table with seating for 12 to 15 (below).
The bar now has two, 42-inch flat-screen TVs and 60 taps that can handle 20 different style beers at any given time.
A popular event coming up is FallFest, scheduled for 2 to 9 p.m. Sept. 27. A party with a German flair, FallFest features food, live music, children's activities and brewery tours.
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