Braindead Brewing, Dallas

This fab funky brewery is one of the shining reasons to be excited over the resurgence of Deep Ellum. Not only do they brew their mind-boggling variety of craft beers on site but their food is a certified knockout! Categorizing the menu as glorified bar food in no way does their inventive selections justice. They even have a bacon-and-beer pairing flight, which is super cool, but also a few legitimate vegan options. Staff is knowledgeable about everything and will offer good guidance when asked.

Braindead is one of those places where you are equally happy to sit in or outside. The large patio deck is great for the always interesting Deep Ellum people watching scene, but you sort of feel like you are missing some excitement by not grabbing a pub table near the bar inside. Rain or shine, you will keep coming back for a one-of-a-kind selection of barrel-aged brews in a great environment. Go look at the mural across the street while you're at it!