In the works for over a year now, Brewhouse No. 16 will finally open to the public today. Housed in a former Baltimore City Fire Department (engine no. 16, of course), the new space has kept some of its original features, including elaborate subway tile, enormously high ceilings, and classic brass sliding poles.
We got to see it first-hand last night at a media preview dinner, which featured a menu of two of Brewhouse’s small-batch beers made on site and a plethora of food items. The expansive space is unique with dining tables and booths in the front—and a long bar, open kitchen, and six brew tanks in the back.
Our meal began with a glass of the Papaw IPA, made with pawpaw fruit, known for its banana-like texture and flavor, which was foraged by chef Adam Snyder and brewer Ian Hummel. We loved the full-flavored beer even though it wasn’t as a hoppy as a typical IPA. The other option was a Harvest brown ale with a touch of sweetness, and our server let us know that a chocolate stout is in the works.
The menu offers a lot of what we’ve been seeing from restaurants lately with charcuterie, shared plates, and local ingredients. Formerly of Cunningham’s in Towson, Snyder prides himself on the latter. Last night, we enjoyed a lovely kale salad with walnuts, goat cheese, and foraged, berry-like autumn olives. Additionally, the pulled duck poutine is a hearty, not-to-miss dish. The spot’s signature farmhouse burger is flavorful and juicy, made with Roseda Farms beef, pancetta, garlic aioli, smoked tomato, and smoked provolone on a grilled bun.
Though the place is large enough, seating 90 inside and an additional 30 outside, there are plans to convert the upstairs into a German-style beer garden with entertainment.
While we were certainly impressed with the space, food, and drinks, what maybe impressed us most was the all-in-the-family vibe. Ian Hummel is the brewer, his sister is a server, and his dad, Harry, is an architect who designed and renovated the place himself. A bee sculpture of the entranceway even alludes to the family tie. (Hummel means bumblebee in German.)
As we finished up our meal last night, Harry came over to check on things. “We’re very proud of the way it turned out,” he said.
Brewhouse No. 16 opens at 3 p.m. today and is currently taking reservations.