Bites Nearby: 1899 Adds Up to 117 Great Choices

Eclectic doesn’t begin to describe 1899, a bar that brings 18 taps and 99 bottles together with beer lovers. Chris Patterson, bar manager, says when people first walk in they say, "Wow, I never would have guessed all this was in here."

It's easy to miss. With no valet parking, and an ambiance that is definitely not “big box,” people tend to walk by the wrought iron gates and art deco numerals. However, for the craft beer lover looking for a place to call their second home, they have arrived as soon as they crossed the threshold.

The bar area is well worn, there is no factory-ordered local "bling." The photos on the ceiling are of real people having a really good time. The ceiling is also covered with money. If you want to break the ice, ask anyone how fishermen supposedly banked for a rainy day.

Gigantic burgers, huge cones of french fries, and gourmet pizzas are all part of the $5 happy hour food menu walked across from the snazzy sister restaurant Ballantine. But if you’re at 1899 it’s probably not because of the food, but because of the beer.

The beer selection is incredible. Eighteen craft beers are always on tap. Left Hand, Bell’s, Troeg’s Two Hearted, Sierra Nevada, Kentucky Blue Grass and Breckenridge are just some of the breweries.

In the summer, Bell’s Oberon is a best seller. Patterson says he changes his favorites depending on his mood and the season; right now swears by Troeg’s Pale Ale. Ask him any number of questions about beer in general, flavors, breweries or recommendations and he can steer you in the right direction.

If you prefer bottles, your options even greater. Sure, Budweiser and Miller are available, but harder-to-find brewers are all part of the rotating choices. Included in craft bottled selections there are even a few of the newer canned beers.

If you enjoy variety, then a beer tour can be lots of fun. Offered each season, the tour is co-hosted with Ballantine's. For $10 you get a starter beer and a T-shirt. Finish the tour and be invited to the bonus party. The summer tour has yet to be scheduled, but should feature lighter beers perfect for hot Cleveland weather.

Summer through winter in the late afternoon and early evening you’ll always be able to find a seat, chat with your neighbors and sip a few brews. In the evenings, however, the pace picks up and it can be standing room only on the patio. There is even a quieter area upstairs with a pit couch and pool table.

There is almost always a happy hour or special going on. Stop in if you are hungry, thirsty or want a place to kick back and relax. Happy hour food is Monday through Friday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and Saturday 4:30-6 p.m. Happy hour in general starts when 1899 opens at 3 p.m. with all drafts $2.50 and varied pricing on bottles. Check for weekly specials and grilling on the patio starting soon on Sundays.

Just off Erie Street, and close to Mentor Avenue, 1899 is at 38228 Glenn Ave. in Willoughby. The phone numbe is 440-269-1899.