Welcome to Garth's Brew Bar
At Garth's Brew Bar, located in Madison, Wisconsin, the passion for craft beer shines through every aspect of the experience. Owned by Garth, a knowledgeable Cicerone, the bar features 18 rotating taps, primarily showcasing local brews, alongside an expansive selection of cans and bottles. The inviting atmosphere combines a modern aesthetic with a laid-back vibe, perfect for connecting with friends over pizza and pretzels. With board games available and a friendly, informed staff, Garth's not only delights the palate but also fosters a strong community spirit. It’s a must-visit for beer lovers seeking genuine connections and exceptional flavors.
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1726 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711, United States Hotline:
Welcome to Garth's Brew Bar, a favorite hidden gem nestled at 1726 Monroe St, Madison, WI. This delightful establishment is a must-visit for beer aficionados and casual sippers alike. With a harmonious blend of a relaxed atmosphere and a passion for craft beer, Garth's promises a unique experience that is not to be missed.
At Garth's Brew Bar, you can discover an impressive selection of 18 beers on tap, most of which hail from local Wisconsin breweries. The rotating beer list ensures that there's always something new to try. If the draft options don't catch your fancy, fear not! A well-stocked array of canned and bottled beers is available, allowing you to explore dozens of flavors at your leisure.
- Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere: Upon entering, you're welcomed by a vibrant, modern aesthetic coupled with an inviting vibe. Whether you're sitting outdoors in the fresh air or relaxing inside with friends, the ambiance fosters camaraderie and spirited conversations.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Garth’s crew, including the owner Garth himself—a certified Cicerone—exhibits a genuine enthusiasm for beer. They are eager to share their insights, helping you to navigate their extensive offerings and discover your perfect pour.
- Delicious Pairings: While the food menu may not be extensive, the pizza served here has garnered rave reviews as some of the best around. Complement your beer choice with a slice—or two—as you savor the rich flavors that pair perfectly with your favorite brew.
- Interactive Fun: Grab a seat and enjoy not just great beer but also a variety of board and card games available for patrons. It's a fantastic way to connect with friends or strike up a conversation with fellow beer lovers.
- Community Vibes: This bar stands out as a hub for both locals and travelers. Many visitors, like Kyle Goodman, have highlighted the sense of community and connection that permeates the air—making it a perfect spot to unwind before a Badger football game or simply to soak in the local culture.
The enthusiasm for craft beer extends beyond just serving drinks. Garth and his team encourage exploration with 4 oz sampling portions, so patrons can create personalized flight experiences. This dynamic approach to beer tasting has made Garth's Brew Bar not just a place to drink, but a space to learn and appreciate the art of brewing.
In conclusion, Garth's Brew Bar is more than just a beer haven; it’s a destination that embodies passion, community, and quality. Don't just take our word for it; step in, grab a beer, indulge in some pizza, and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back. Your next favorite beer might just be waiting for you here!
Absolutely incredible beer bar! Garth has 18 beers on tap (most from Wisconsin), but if, for whatever reason, you don’t like any of those, there are dozens more available by the can or bottle. Casual, laid-back atmosphere, including outdoor seating. The food menu is not extensive, but the pizza is the best I’ve had in years, and if you’re going to enjoy beer, what better food to pair with it than pizza! Garth also has a selection of board and card games available on a shelf in the bar. Also, all tap beers are available in 4 oz portions, enabling you to create your own flight of however many beers you desire. This is a must-visit if you’re in Madison.
The passion for beer that runs through this place is palpable. When you enter from Monroe St. you are greeted with the bright and social interior with a modern, cozy aesthetic. To your right will be a stunning array of cans for you to browse. Ahead of you is the counter to pay for your drinks or order something on tap. I guarantee that whoever takes your order will be immensely knowledgeable about the beers on offer as well as being enthusiastic and kind. Once you have your drink of choice, grab a seat at a table and the rest of your experience can begin. The air around you will be abuzz with conversation and connections. The tables allow for medium to large groups to sit at and they fill up. There are games for you to play and I cannot recommend Spot It highly enough. Garth’s creates an environment where you can earnestly connect with others and revel in the company. The music they play is also incredible. While there, I heard one of my favorites, Sammy Rae & The Friends, and it made the experience even better. The owner, Garth, is a Cicerone (sommelier of the beer world) who is not only knowledgeable, but overjoyed and friendly as well. The team he has built around him shares an excitement for beer and the community that brings and they work to share their joy with you. Throughout the pandemic they held virtual beer tastings where Garth took you through the tasting experience and gave you a glimpse of his expertise. If you enjoy beer, go to Garth’s and you’ll find new levels to discover.
My dad and I had a great time visiting and enjoying the good vibes of the place. First time in Madison and this was our only stop on the way to Milwaukee! We were just going to get a snack and enjoy the town, but we were having such a good we had a few drinks and stayed 3 hours. Tim was such a wonderful host providing a lot of pleasant conversation and great service! He really made the visit enjoyable. 10/10 great place to visit and hangout and enjoy the area around the stadium. We will be back!
We had a really nice time at Garth's on Saturday, April 19, 2025. Very nice atmosphere, super-clean restrooms, and delicious beers on tap. Lead Bartender Tim was exceptionally friendly, and took really great care of us while we were there. From suggesting sips to toasting our giant pretzel to perfection, he really was the best. He even brought by some taste-tests while we were there visiting with our friend. Just the nicest time. Thanks, Tim!
This has become mine and my family's favorite place to stop before Badger football games. We always look forward to the rotating beers on tap and which beers we will get from the cooler to bring back to wausau. Keep up the great work!
Another excellent choice for wide variety of interesting craft beer, including barrel aged, for most parts of the year. AND, they have a large stocked refrigerator for additional choices if those on tap don't quite suit you. Only one demerit for food, as they only offer a regular and large pretzel. The sauces are good, but DO vary from time to time. Last year one choice was Honey Mustard (From the mustard Museum), and this year's was a hot and spicy, also from the Mustard Museum. Friendly helpful staff, reasonable prices, kid friendly. Street parking, might have to walk a little during prime time. Looking forward to visiting again.
My husband and extended family of 8 were needing to find a place that could accomodate all of us last minute. Tim was incredibly welcoming and helpful. He even supplied plates/utensils for food that we had ordered elsewhere. Great selection of beers and a lot of fun games to play. My nephew was especially happy the Packer's game was playing. I would highly recommend Garth's.
Great beer bar offering an extensive and rotating beer list. They offer a great selection of both tap and canned beers which are mostly local (Midwest). Relaxed atmosphere and diverse customer base. Staff is very knowledgeable and friendly. Being a small brewery owner myself, it is great to see staff (especially Tim) take time to not only educate patrons on different beer styles, but also train new staff members as well in order to improve the customer experience. They also offer a limited food menu (pizza and pretzels). We didn't eat this time , but will give a try in the future. If your a beer lover stop in and give them a try.