How to Order Craft Beer at a Taproom Like a Pro

Being greeted by dozens of craft beers on tap when you walk into your local Growler Guys can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you don’t know your lagers from your ales. But learning how to order craft beer at a taproom is easier than you think. All you need is a little curiosity and a willingness to try something new. Here’s how to navigate a tap list and order your next pint like a pro.

How Do You Read a Tap List?

Most taprooms organize their beer menus by style, brewery, or tap number. You’ll typically find some details on each beer to help you make a decision.

Beer name: The name the brewery gives its beer. Some names hint at the style or flavor, while others simply showcase the brewer’s creativity.
Brewery: The company that makes the beer. This information can help you discover local breweries or find your familiar favorites.
Beer style: The general category, like IPA, stout, lager, or wheat beer. Styles give you clues about flavor, aroma, and body.
ABV: Alcohol by volume. The number tells you how much alcohol a beer contains as a percentage of its total volume.
IBU: International Bitterness Units measure bittering compounds in beer. Higher numbers generally indicate more bitterness, although malt sweetness and other ingredients can influence how bitter a beer actually tastes.

We recommend starting by looking at the craft beer style when ordering at a taproom, rather than the name. Once you find the flavors you enjoy, narrowing down your options becomes much easier.

Which Craft Beer Styles Should Beginners Try?

One of the best parts about visiting a taproom is the chance to try different craft beer styles. You don’t need to know every brewing technique to recognize what you like.

Lagers and Pilsners: Crisp and Refreshing
If you enjoy a clean, refreshing beer, start with a lager or pilsner. These styles typically have a lighter body, crisp finish, and approachable flavors. Just note that pilsners generally have a more noticeable hop bitterness than other light lagers.

Wheat Beers: Smooth and Easy-Drinking
Wheat beers typically feature a soft mouthfeel and refreshing character. Depending on the style, you might pick up on citrus, banana, clove, or subtle spice flavors. They’re a great starting point if you want something flavorful but not overwhelmingly bitter.

IPAs: Hoppy and Aromatic
India pale ales, better known as IPAs, showcase hops through flavors and aromas that range from citrus and tropical fruit to pine and floral notes. West Coast IPAs typically have a crisp, bitter finish, while hazy IPAs are known for juicy flavors and a softer mouthfeel.

Stouts and Porters: Rich and Roasty
Prefer coffee, chocolate, or toasted flavors? We recommend stouts and porters. These darker beers often feature roasted malt character and range from relatively light-bodied and dry to rich, full-bodied imperial versions.

Amber Ales and Brown Ales: Malty and Balanced
Amber and brown ales are another great gateway to craft beer. These approachable brews bring flavors like caramel, toasted bread, nuts, and subtle chocolate.

What Should You Ask Before Ordering Craft Beer?

The first thing to remember is: there’s no wrong question when it comes to exploring craft beer. Our certified Beer Stewards are here to help you enjoy the experience, not test your brewing knowledge. Asking a few simple questions can make it much easier to order a beer you’ll enjoy.

“What’s similar to the beer I usually drink?” Tell us about one of your favorite brews, and we can help you try something with a comparable flavor profile.
“What’s popular with local craft beer fans?” This question can introduce you to regional breweries and styles you might otherwise overlook.
“Do you have something that’s not too bitter?” We’ll help you explore options that emphasize malt sweetness, fruit character, or a crisp finish.
“What’s new on tap?” Rotating selections give you a chance to discover different breweries and seasonal releases.
“What would you recommend with my food?” Beer and food pairings can highlight complementary flavors for a more enjoyable experience.

Should You Order a Beer Flight or a Full Pint?

If you already know what type of beer you enjoy, ordering a full pint makes sense. If, however, you’re having trouble deciding between several beers, a tasting flight is a great way to compare them without committing to a full pour. A beer flight typically includes several 3- to 5-ounce servings, so you can try different flavors, aromas, and brewing styles side by side.

We recommend choosing a mix of styles for your flight instead of several nearly identical beers. For example, choosing a pilsner, amber ale, IPA, and stout can show you how malt, hops, and brewing techniques all affect the drinking experience.

As you taste, pay attention to:

Aroma: Do you notice citrus, pine, caramel, coffee, or other familiar scents?
Body: Does the beer feel light and crisp or rich and creamy?
Bitterness: Does the beer finish with a noticeable hop bite?
Aftertaste: Do the flavors disappear quickly or linger after each sip?

Can You Ask for a Craft Beer Sample Before Ordering?

Many taprooms offer small samples so customers can try a new-to-them beer before ordering it. When you try a sample, take a moment to notice the aroma before taking a sip. Let the beer settle on your palate, and consider whether you enjoy its balance of sweetness, bitterness, and other flavors.

Don’t feel obligated to order something just because you sampled it. Exploring new flavors is part of the craft beer experience.

What Taproom Etiquette Should You Know?

Craft beer culture is all about community, conversation, and a shared appreciation for good beer.

Take a look at the menu before approaching the bar. You don’t need to make a final decision, but knowing a few styles that interest you helps the conversation flow.
Ask questions when the staff has a moment. We love talking about beer, and a little patience during busy periods helps everyone receive great service.
Keep sampling reasonable. A few thoughtful tastes can help you choose, but sampling shouldn’t replace ordering a pint or flight.
Respect other customers. Give everyone room to order, relax, and enjoy their conversations.
Know your limits. Check the ABV, pace yourself, drink water between beers, and plan a safe ride home.

Can You Take Your Favorite Craft Beer Home in a Growler?

Absolutely! Growlers are a great way to enjoy fresh draft beer at home. If you find something you love at your local Growler Guys, ask us about available growler sizes. Our Phssssh™ CO² TO GO! system helps us fill growlers with minimal oxygen exposure, protecting the beer’s freshness and flavor. We’ll also give you tips on how to store your growler at home to keep it fresh longer.

Head to The Growler Guys to Order Craft Beer Like a Pro

Now that you know how to order craft beer at a taproom, head to your local Growler Guys. Our certified Beer Stewards make it easy to ask questions, explore the tap list, and broaden your palate at your own pace. With our extensive rotating tap list, you’re sure to find a craft beer, kombucha, or cider to fit your taste. Stop in for a pint, flight, or growler fill today.