7 Monks Traverse City: Your Guide to the 7 Best Local Beers

Imagine strolling through the charming, bustling streets of Downtown Traverse City, Michigan, where the air is fresh off the bay and a sense of adventure is around every corner. For craft beer lovers, that adventure leads to one undeniable destination: 7 Monks Taproom. This isn't just a bar; it's a sanctuary for enthusiasts, a place where the gospel of great beer is preached by a knowledgeable staff and celebrated with an incredible, ever-changing selection.

The heart of 7 Monks is its legendary wall of Rotating Taps, a dazzling testament to their commitment to showcasing the very best from Michigan Breweries and acclaimed brewers across the globe. Ready to explore this beer heaven? We've curated a list of seven must-try Local Beers that define the Michigan craft experience, complete with expert Food Pairings from their delicious Taproom Menu. Get ready to raise a glass to the Great Beer State!

Image taken from the YouTube channel Order Up! , from the video titled Cool Brews and Hot Eats at 7 Monks Taproom .

As we embark on our journey to discover the hidden gems of Michigan, one destination truly stands out for enthusiasts of fine brews and local charm.

Heavenly Hops and Northern Charm: Stepping into 7 Monks Taproom

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan, Downtown Traverse City, Michigan, beckons with an undeniable allure. Imagine strolling through a vibrant waterfront setting, where historic brick buildings house quaint boutiques, artisanal eateries, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the crisp northern air. This picturesque city, renowned for its cherry orchards and stunning natural beauty, offers more than just scenic vistas; it's a thriving cultural hub, and for craft beer aficionados, it holds a particularly special secret: 7 Monks Taproom.

Discovering Traverse City's Craft Beer Sanctuary

For those seeking an unparalleled craft beer experience, 7 Monks Taproom stands as a premier destination, a true haven where the art of brewing is celebrated with passion and expertise. It's more than just a bar; it's an immersive journey into the world of hops, malt, and unique fermentation. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere, a testament to their dedication to creating a welcoming space for both seasoned beer enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff are not just servers; they are guides, eager to share insights, recommend new favorites, and help you navigate their extensive selection.

The Legendary Wall of Rotating Taps

The true centerpiece of 7 Monks Taproom, and what truly sets it apart, is its iconic wall of rotating taps. This isn't just a handful of options; it's a meticulously curated collection that showcases the very best from the flourishing Michigan Breweries scene and beyond. With an ever-changing lineup, each visit promises a fresh discovery. The commitment to variety means you'll find everything from crisp lagers and robust stouts to experimental sours and hazy IPAs, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to tantalize your taste buds. This dynamic selection highlights the innovation and craftsmanship present in Michigan's brewing landscape, offering a unique opportunity to sample limited releases and seasonal specialties that you might not find anywhere else.

A Taste of Michigan: Curated Brews and Culinary Delights

Beyond the impressive tap list, 7 Monks elevates the experience by integrating their culinary offerings. Their Taproom Menu is thoughtfully designed to complement their beverage selection, making the art of food pairings an integral part of your visit. Imagine savoring a perfectly crafted dish that enhances the subtle notes of your chosen brew, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. To guide your exploration through this delightful world, we've carefully curated a list of 7 must-try local beers that exemplify the quality and diversity available at 7 Monks.

With our palates primed and our curiosity piqued, let's dive into the first of these exceptional offerings: the iconic IPA from Bell's Brewery.

As you settle into the vibrant atmosphere of 7 Monks Taproom, your exploration of Michigan's unparalleled craft beer scene begins with a true icon.

The Unmissable Classic: Why Bell's Two Hearted Remains a Must-Try IPA

When discussing legendary Michigan craft beers, it’s impossible not to immediately think of Bell's Brewery and their renowned Two Hearted Ale. This isn't just a beer; it's a benchmark, a consistent chart-topper that has defined the American IPA for countless enthusiasts. At 7 Monks Taproom, it's a staple, always available, always perfectly poured, and always a phenomenal choice for both seasoned craft beer lovers and curious newcomers alike.

A Symphony of Hops and Malt

Two Hearted Ale is a masterclass in balance and flavor. Brewed exclusively with Centennial hops, it delivers a powerful yet harmonious aroma and taste profile. Expect bright, invigorating notes of grapefruit and pine, characteristic of classic American hops, perfectly complemented by a surprisingly solid malt backbone. This malt presence ensures that the beer isn't just a hop bomb; it provides a delightful foundation that supports and balances the bitterness, making it wonderfully drinkable. The result is a perfectly balanced bitterness that lingers just long enough to invite another sip, showcasing its exquisite craftsmanship.

The Heartbeat of Michigan Craft Beer

Bell's Two Hearted Ale holds a unique and significant place in the Michigan beer scene. It's often cited as one of the beers that put Michigan craft brewing on the national map, consistently winning awards and accolades year after year. Its unwavering quality and widespread appeal make it a testament to Bell's commitment to brewing excellence. At 7 Monks Taproom, its presence on the tap list is a guarantee of a consistently excellent, reliable, and utterly delicious beer experience – a true measure of a great taproom.

Here’s a quick look at the vital stats for this iconic brew:

The Perfect Culinary Companion

One of the joys of exploring craft beer at 7 Monks is discovering the perfect food pairing. For the bright and hoppy character of Bell's Two Hearted Ale, we highly recommend pairing it with their Belgian Frites with garlic aioli. The crisp, salty goodness of the fries provides a wonderful textural contrast, while the rich, creamy garlic aioli finds its perfect adversary in the beer's vibrant hops. The hops cut beautifully through the richness of the aioli, cleansing your palate and preparing you for the next delightful bite and sip. It's a simple, yet profoundly satisfying, combination.

While Two Hearted sets a high bar for classic IPA perfection, Michigan's brewing landscape is also brimming with innovative spirits, leading us to another powerhouse of creativity...

While Bell's Brewery masterfully crafts iconic IPAs that have defined a generation of craft beer, Michigan's brewing landscape also thrives on innovation and artistic expression, inviting enthusiasts to explore flavors far beyond the traditional.

Where Imagination Ferments: Uncovering the Unforgettable Ales of Short's Brewing Company

In the vibrant tapestry of Michigan's craft beer scene, Short's Brewing Company stands as a beacon of audacious creativity. Hailing from Bellaire, Short's has earned its reputation as a true pioneer, constantly pushing the boundaries of what beer can be. They are celebrated for their experimental spirit, transforming unusual ingredients and flavor profiles into uniquely delicious Local Beers that captivate and challenge the palate. Forget conventional; Short's is about the unexpected, the delightful surprise in every sip, solidifying their status as a powerhouse of imaginative brewing.

A Pioneer of Palate Exploration

Short's Brewing Company isn't just making beer; they're crafting experiences. Their philosophy revolves around creating truly distinct and often unconventional brews that challenge perceptions and invite exploration. This commitment to innovation means their Rotating Taps are always a source of excitement, showcasing a diverse portfolio that ranges from fruit-infused rye ales to hop-forward masterpieces. It's this continuous quest for novel flavors that makes every visit, or every pour, an adventure.

The Signature Sensation: Soft Parade

Among their pantheon of creative concoctions, one beer frequently graces the Rotating Taps and exemplifies Short's' distinctive approach: Soft Parade. This American Rye Ale is a testament to their willingness to blend the familiar with the fantastically unexpected, creating a brew that is both approachable and wonderfully complex. It's often found alongside other fan favorites like the robust Huma Lupa Licious IPA, but Soft Parade's unique character truly shines.

A Symphony of Flavors

Soft Parade immediately enchants with its vibrant personality. It pours a beautiful ruby-red hue, hinting at the fruit medley within. On the palate, it delivers a harmonious blend of strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry, all elegantly balanced by a subtle yet distinctive rye spice. This isn't a sweet fruit bomb; rather, the rye provides an earthy, slightly peppery counterpoint that grounds the fruit's brightness, leading to a remarkably refreshing and effervescent finish. Its medium body and mild bitterness make it incredibly drinkable, inviting sip after sip to unravel its layered profile.

The Perfect Pairing

To truly elevate the Soft Parade experience, consider a Food Pairing that complements its unique fruity and spicy notes. A carefully curated charcuterie board is an ideal companion. The richness of artisanal cheeses – from a creamy brie to a sharp cheddar – provides a delightful contrast to the beer's effervescent fruitiness. Cured meats like prosciutto or salami can echo the beer's subtle savory undertones, while crackers or crusty bread offer a palate cleanser. The interplay of textures and flavors on the board will dance beautifully with Soft Parade's complex character, creating an unforgettable culinary journey.

From these vibrant, imaginative ales, we now turn our attention to the rich, dark depths of a true stout masterpiece.

While Short's might dazzle with their innovative ales, another Michigan giant beckons with an entirely different, equally captivating experience, inviting you to delve into the richer, darker side of craft brewing.

Embrace the Night: Founders' Decadent Stout Experience

From the heart of Michigan's thriving craft beer scene, Founders Brewing Co. stands as a titan, celebrated globally for their bold and exceptionally crafted beers. Among their most revered creations is a beer that truly defines decadence: the Breakfast Stout. This world-class stout isn't just a beverage; it's a meticulously crafted symphony of deep, complex flavors designed to offer a truly luxurious experience.

A Symphony of Dark Delights: Founders Breakfast Stout

Imagine a glass filled with a liquid that’s almost impossibly dark, a rich, velvety obsidian. That's the visual promise of Founders Breakfast Stout, and its flavor profile delivers even more. Each sip is an exploration of layers:

• Coffee: Robust, freshly brewed coffee notes hit first, offering an invigorating yet comforting warmth.
• Dark Chocolate: A luxurious wave of bittersweet dark chocolate follows, reminiscent of the finest artisan confections.
• Roasted Malt: Underlying these dominant flavors are subtle hints of toasted grains and roasted barley, adding depth and a pleasant bitterness that balances the sweetness.

This masterful blend creates a beer that is remarkably rich, yet surprisingly smooth, making it an absolute treat for the senses.

The Perfect Companion for a Traverse City Evening

Beyond its intricate flavors, the Breakfast Stout embodies comfort and warmth, making it an ideal choice for a cozy evening, particularly in a charming setting like Traverse City, Michigan. As the sun dips below the horizon and the air cools, perhaps after a day exploring the bay or enjoying the vibrant downtown, there's nothing quite like settling in with a glass of this dark masterpiece. Its full body and warming characteristics provide the perfect antidote to a brisk Michigan evening, transforming a simple moment into an indulgent ritual. It’s the kind of beer that encourages slow sips, thoughtful conversation, or peaceful reflection by a crackling fire.

Pairing Perfection: Elevating the Experience

To fully appreciate the intensity and complexity of Founders Breakfast Stout, consider a food pairing that can stand up to its robust character.

• Hearty Burger: A classic choice, a juicy, well-seasoned burger provides a savory counterpoint to the stout's rich sweetness and roasty notes. The fat and char from the burger beautifully complement the beer's depth.
• Taproom's Signature Dessert: For an even more decadent pairing, seek out a dark chocolate dessert or a coffee-infused treat. The brewery's own taproom often offers signature desserts designed to harmonize with their beers, creating an unforgettable culinary experience that matches the stout's intensity and enhances its chocolate and coffee undertones.

Stout vs. Porter: Understanding the Dark Divide

While we celebrate the magnificent stout, it's worth noting its close cousin, the porter. Both are celebrated dark beer styles, often leading to confusion. While they share common ancestors and some overlapping characteristics, there are subtle differences that define them. Here's a quick comparison:

Understanding these nuances helps appreciate the specific character that makes Founders Breakfast Stout such a distinctive and beloved beverage. It’s a testament to the art of brewing, transforming simple ingredients into a profound taste experience that lingers long after the last sip.

As we move from the dark, contemplative depths of a Founders stout, prepare to shift gears and rediscover the refreshing simplicity of a true Michigan classic.

While the bold embrace of a rich stout offers a journey into depth, sometimes the soul craves a different kind of perfection.

The Pure North's Whisper: Unveiling Traverse City's Perfect Palate Cleanser

Stepping away from the grand, expansive flavors of a Founders Stout, we now shift our focus to a different kind of local treasure – one that embodies the crisp, clean spirit of Northern Michigan itself. This isn't about global recognition; it's about the unpretentious brilliance found right in our backyard. Frequently featured on the rotating taps at 7 Monks Taproom in Traverse City, you’ll often find a remarkable example of a true Northern Michigan lager from a smaller, dedicated craft brewery like Northwood Brewhouse.

A Study in Subtlety: The Art of the Lager

In a world often dominated by audacious IPAs and complex stouts, the humble lager, particularly a well-crafted Pilsner or Helles, stands as a testament to masterful, subtle brewing. It's an arena where flaws have nowhere to hide, demanding impeccable precision and a deep understanding of ingredients. These styles showcase brewing skill not through overwhelming flavors, but through purity, balance, and an almost ethereal drinkability. The "True North Lager" from a local Northern Michigan brewery exemplifies this artistry, delivering a nuanced profile that is both approachable and deeply satisfying.

Your Traverse City Companion: Crisp, Clean, and Crushable

Imagine a beer so exquisitely balanced, so refreshingly uncomplicated, that it becomes the ideal companion for any moment. This local lager offers just that experience. Its character is defined by a clean, crisp finish that leaves your palate invigorated, making it incredibly crushable. It’s the kind of beer that doesn't demand your full attention but rather enhances your surroundings. Whether you're exploring the charming shops of downtown Traverse City, basking in the sun by Grand Traverse Bay, or simply needing a moment of pure refreshment, this lager serves as a perfect palate cleanser. It’s an all-day sipper, designed to refresh and rehydrate without overwhelming, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of your Northern Michigan adventure.

Harmonious Pairings: Elevating Delicate Flavors

The delicate nature of this "True North Lager" makes it a superb canvas for specific food pairings available right on the 7 Monks Taproom menu. Unlike bolder beers that might compete with or overpower food, this lager harmonizes beautifully with lighter fare, enhancing the dining experience.

Consider these delightful pairings:

• Steamed Mussels: The crispness of the lager cuts through the richness of the broth, while its subtle malt notes complement the sweet, briny mussels without overshadowing them. It's a classic pairing that highlights both the beer and the dish.
• Fresh Salads: A vibrant salad, perhaps featuring local greens, fruit, and a light vinaigrette, finds its perfect match in this lager. Its clean profile allows the individual flavors of the salad ingredients to shine, and its refreshing character acts as a gentle reset between bites.

These pairings aren't about bold contrasts, but about delicate synergy, proving that sometimes, less truly is more.

But for those ready to venture further into the wilder side of brewing, our next pick promises an exhilarating journey.

While the crisp simplicity of a True North Lager offers a comforting familiarity, sometimes an adventure for the palate is exactly what's needed.

Embrace the Pucker: Your Journey into the Wild World of Tart & Tangy Ales

Prepare to step onto the wild side of brewing with our selection of tart and tangy sour beers! This exciting category has exploded in popularity, captivating drinkers with its vibrant, often fruit-forward, and undeniably refreshing character. Sours are a testament to the diverse and innovative world of craft beer, moving beyond traditional profiles to explore complex fermentation techniques that yield truly unique results. If you're looking to challenge your taste buds and discover something genuinely new, the world of sour and wild ales awaits.

Michigan's Rotating Sour Showcase

We pride ourselves on showcasing the incredible talent of Michigan's craft brewing scene. Our rotating taps frequently feature a specialized sour or wild ale from a local Michigan brewery, highlighting the immense diversity available right here in our home state. This means every visit offers a fresh opportunity to explore different interpretations of this adventurous style, from kettle sours bursting with fruit to more nuanced, barrel-aged wild ales with layers of funky complexity. It's a fantastic way to support local artisans while experiencing the cutting edge of brewing innovation.

A Symphony of Flavors: Your Tasting Experience

Drinking a sour beer is an experience unlike any other. Expect a captivating journey for your palate that typically begins with a bright, clean acidity that awakens the senses. This initial tartness often gives way to delightful fruity undertones, whether from fruit additions during brewing or natural esters produced by the yeast and bacteria. The finish is almost always refreshingly tart, leaving your mouth watering and eager for the next sip. Far from being simply "sour," these beers are incredibly balanced, offering a crisp, invigorating profile that makes them surprisingly drinkable, especially on a warm day.

Culinary Courage: Bold Pairings for Bold Beers

The vibrant acidity and fruit notes of sour beers make them exceptional companions for a variety of dishes, creating dynamic flavor contrasts that elevate both the beer and the food. We suggest an adventurous food pairing like a creamy goat cheese flatbread, where the beer's tartness beautifully cuts through the richness of the cheese, or a zesty citrus-forward dish, which will echo and amplify the beer's bright character. Think ceviche, a vibrant fruit salad, or even a key lime pie – the possibilities for a truly memorable gastronomic experience are endless when pairing with these wild and wonderful brews.

And just as our sour selection rotates, so too does another exciting tap line, always bringing something new to discover.

While the invigorating pucker of a sour beer offers a delightful jolt, sometimes the palate craves something new, something that truly speaks to the rhythm of the year.

The Living Tap List: A Seasonal Journey Through Michigan's Best

Step into the heart of Traverse City, Michigan, and you’ll discover that the brewing world here moves in sync with the seasons. Our Rotating Taps at 7 Monks Taproom are a vibrant testament to this rhythm, offering a fresh, ever-changing lineup that celebrates the ingenuity of Michigan Breweries and the bounty of our local agriculture. It’s an exciting adventure for your taste buds, ensuring there’s always something new and intriguing to explore with every visit.

The Dynamic Duo: Seasons and Local Breweries

The magic of our Rotating Taps lies in their unpredictability and their dedication to what’s fresh and fitting for the current climate. Just as nature transitions through spring blooms, summer sun, autumn leaves, and winter snows, so too does our selection of craft beers. This allows us to showcase the incredible diversity and talent found within Michigan’s thriving brewing scene.

Imagine:

• Fall: As leaves turn to amber, a rich, malty Märzen might grace our taps, perfect for celebrating Oktoberfest traditions with its crisp, clean finish.
• Winter: When the first snowflakes fall, a warming, spiced Winter Warmer emerges, offering notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and dark fruits, providing comfort against the chill.
• Summer: During the sun-drenched months, a light, refreshing fruity Summer Wheat Beer with hints of cherry or peach (often sourced locally!) becomes the ultimate thirst quencher.

These examples are just a glimpse of the ever-evolving array. Each pour from our Rotating Taps is an invitation to taste the freshest expression of Michigan's brewing creativity.

A Taste of Traverse City's Seasons

Drinking seasonally isn't just a trend; it's a way to experience the freshest, most vibrant flavors possible. Many of the beers featured on our Rotating Taps are crafted using seasonal ingredients that highlight the peak of Traverse City, Michigan's local agriculture. From hops harvested at their prime to fruits picked at peak ripeness, these brews offer a direct connection to the region's fertile lands and the innovative spirit of its brewers. It's a genuine taste of Northern Michigan, bottled and served.

Seasonal Sips: A Calendar of Craft Beer

To give you a better idea of the delicious possibilities throughout the year, here’s a peek at the types of seasonal styles you might encounter on our Rotating Taps:

Harmony on the Menu: Food Pairings for Every Season

The seasonal celebration extends beyond our beer selection. Our Taproom Menu is thoughtfully curated to incorporate seasonal ingredients, ensuring that your culinary experience is just as fresh and timely as your beer. This commitment allows for truly perfect, timely Food Pairings. Imagine a hearty winter stew alongside a spiced porter, or a fresh, vibrant salad paired with a zesty summer wheat beer. Our team takes pride in crafting a menu that complements the rotating taps, creating a cohesive and delightful experience that fully immerses you in the flavors of the season.

And when faced with such an enticing array of choices, sometimes the best strategy is to simply lean on the wisdom of those who pour.

Having savored the array of distinctive pours from the rotating taps, you might think you've experienced the full spectrum of what 7 Monks Taproom has to offer.

The Insider's Pour: Unlocking 7 Monks' Hidden Gems with the Experts

While the tap list is a treasure map in itself, the true adventurers know that some of the best discoveries aren't always printed on the board. This is where the magic of human connection elevates your craft beer journey at 7 Monks Taproom.

Engage with the Experts

At 7 Monks Taproom, the staff aren't just serving drinks; they are passionate custodians of craft beer culture, brimming with knowledge and genuine enthusiasm. We wholeheartedly encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and strike up a conversation. These are the individuals who live and breathe beer, constantly exploring new flavors and keeping their fingers on the pulse of what's truly exceptional. Their passion is infectious, and their insights can lead you to experiences you wouldn't find on your own.

The Secret Tap: Unlisted Delights

One of the most exciting aspects of entrusting your palate to the experts is the possibility of unearthing a true rarity. The very best beer of the day at 7 Monks might not be widely advertised. It could be a limited-release, taproom-only keg that just arrived, a special collaboration, or a unique barrel-aged creation that won't see distribution beyond these walls. These are often small-batch wonders, poured with pride and gone quickly, making each sip an exclusive event.

The Magic Question for Discovery

So, how do you unlock these hidden treasures? It's simpler than you might think. Skip the generic questions and instead, lean into their expertise with a question that invites a genuinely enthusiastic response: "What are you most excited about on tap today?" This simple query opens the door to an insider's recommendation, guiding you directly to the freshest, most intriguing, or most coveted pour that day. You'll often hear about a beer that perfectly matches your preferences, or perhaps one that gently nudges you into a delightful new favorite.

Beyond the Beer: Embracing Craft Culture

Framing your visit this way is the ultimate path to discovering a hidden gem and experiencing the true spirit of craft beer culture at 7 Monks Taproom. It transforms a simple purchase into an interactive adventure, fostering a deeper connection with the beverage and the community that celebrates it. It's about shared passion, unexpected delights, and the thrill of finding that perfect, unlisted pint that truly makes your visit unforgettable.

As you reflect on these curated experiences, you'll be ready to bring all your newfound knowledge together and craft your ultimate beer itinerary for 7 Monks Taproom.

Having journeyed through the intricate selections and expert recommendations at 7 Monks Taproom, it's time to bring your ultimate beer tour to a memorable close.

The Grand Finale of Your Michigan Craft Beer Quest

As your incredible beer journey through the heart of Downtown Traverse City culminates, take a moment to reflect on the sheer breadth of Local Beers and diverse Beer Styles you've encountered. From the crisp, hop-forward notes of classic IPAs that tantalize the palate, to the intriguing tartness of experimental sours that push the boundaries of flavor, and everything in between – the 7 Monks Taproom has showcased the very best of Michigan's thriving craft scene. You've explored rich stouts, refreshing lagers, complex Belgians, and unique seasonal brews, each one a testament to the artistry of local brewers.

This exploration solidifies 7 Monks Taproom not just as a bar, but as an indispensable landmark for any enthusiast or curious traveler visiting Downtown Traverse City. Its commitment to quality, variety, and supporting local breweries truly sets it apart, making every visit a discovery. It's more than just a place to grab a pint; it's a vibrant hub where stories are shared, new favorites are found, and the spirit of Michigan Craft Beer comes alive.

Are you ready to truly immerse yourself in this unparalleled experience? Don't just read about it – live it! We emphatically encourage you to: Head to 7 Monks Taproom, explore the extensive and ever-evolving Taproom Menu, and embark on your very own unforgettable Michigan Craft Beer adventure! To make the most of your visit and ensure you don't miss out on any limited-time brews, remember to check the taproom's website for the most up-to-date list of Rotating Taps before you arrive. Your next favorite beer is waiting!

Video: 7 Monks Traverse City: Your Guide to the 7 Best Local Beers

Play Video

From the hop-forward bite of a classic IPA to the tart tang of an experimental sour, your journey through Michigan's craft beer scene is as diverse as it is delicious. As we've seen, 7 Monks Taproom isn't just serving drinks—it's curating an experience, offering a masterclass in the art of brewing that makes it an absolutely essential stop for anyone visiting Downtown Traverse City.

So, what are you waiting for? It's time to put this guide to the test. Head to 7 Monks Taproom, pull up a stool, explore the Taproom Menu, and embark on your own Michigan Craft Beer adventure! Don't forget to check their website for the most up-to-date list of Rotating Taps before your visit—your new favorite beer might be waiting.