Rogue is one of the most well known and largest independent breweries in the States. Started back in 1988 by two fraternity brothers and one of their close friends, it blossomed over the years into nationally known brewery with a chain of brewpubs and meeting halls. One such pub is the Rogue Ales Public House in Newport, Oregon. Rogue Ales Public House, originally named the Bayfront Brewery, was established in May of 1989. Rogue brewed it’s many Ales at Bayfront Brewery until 1992, when “Howard,” the 15 barrel brew system was carried across the Newport Bay to it’s current location. The old brewery was converted into a pool hall known as the Crustacean Stacean to the locals.
Even before entering the historic building you will be able to hear the laughter and music. The House, as we’ll call it, is a lively establishment where travelers and locals alike rub elbows to enjoy a “cold one”. Upon entering you will notice on the right is the main pub area and on the left is the pool hall. The pool hall has is large and covered in old school Rogue memorabilia. Here you can work on your game while enjoying a bowl of Harry’s Beer Cheese Soup, a pint of your favorite Rogue brew, and watching the latest sports updates. The pub side is decked out in more Rogue memorabilia and all the different varieties of beer Rogue has brewed over the years. You may want to come early though because the pub can get a little crowded.
Both sides have a karaoke booth that you can belt out your favorite songs. When I last visited they were having an 80’s night. I have never heard so much Duran Duran! It was a very enjoyable night. The House sports 35 rotating taps of their fine beer including their staples and their special editions. Rogue has always been known for their great micro brews and you will notice that the closer you get to the source, the better it gets. If your not sure what to try, just ask one of the friendly bar tenders. They are more than happy to suggest a brew and even give you a sample. Trying a smooth pint of beer at The House is why you go there. You can’t beat the taste of a cold glass of beer brewed just across the bay. Needless to say, the food is great too. By the way just because its cheap doesn’t mean its just “bar food”. Some of the favorites are Kobe Bleu Balls (meatballs stuffed with bleu cheese), The Fondue, and of course Harry’s Beer Cheese Soup.
My visit to the Rogue Ales Public House was a short one but I will definitely be back. And when I do, I will be staying at one of their apartments above the pub. The Rogue Bed and Beer, as they call it, is a few apartments above the Public House where you can stay starting at $90 a night. They have one or two bedroom apartments which are fully furnished including a TV with satellite service, microwave, dishwasher, coffeemaker, washer and dryer, queen size beds, private bath, a spacious kitchen, and a comfortable living and dining area. Upon check-in you will find two 22-ounce bottles of cold “Rogue Ale” and two complimentary “Rogue” logo pint glasses. Very nice!
So if you are ever visiting the coast or just passing through, check out the Rogue Ales Public House. The friendly staff and locals keep it lively and fresh while the beer keeps flowing. You won’t ever regret stopping in and you may even find out you can sing “Rio” better than you thought.
