Microbreweries are becoming more and more common, with Maine hosting an assortment of breweries throughout the state. In my time here in Maine, I’ve heard people frequently talk about Flight Deck Brewing, so I made my way out to Brunswick to see what the buzz was all about. Flight Deck Brewing is located in a converted small arms range at the Brunswick Naval Air Station. Driving through the compound was a pleasant experience, as there wasn’t a lot of traffic, and I drove past a couple of decommissioned planes. While the brewery is housed in a grey building, there are plenty of signs pointing to Flight Deck. Furthermore, if you miss the first entrance, don’t despair, a second entrance isn’t much further down the road.
As it was Saturday, Flight Deck was packed by the time I arrived. Additionally, the brewery was celebrating their two-year anniversary, which definitely brought in the extra clientele. There are two seating sections within the brewery, with the larger area hosting seats at the bar, high tops, and picnic tables. The smaller seating area has a couple of leather couches, along with picnic tables and a small counter. Its in this area where brewing equipment can be viewed, each named after a “Top Gun” characters. Furthermore, Flight Deck is decorated with model planes, along with flying equipment like helmet and goggles. Flight Deck even provides a TV tuned to the day’s sporting event.
Flight Deck brews their beer in house, and their passion for their beers is evident. According to their website, they are closed every Monday to dedicate the day to brewing plenty of beer. They have an assortment of beers, and each drink is described on their menus. Like many other drinking establishments, patrons can purchase a flight of beers, or a singular beer in an array of sizes. Flight Deck has even bottled some of their beer, so folks can bring some beer home with them.
Flight Deck Brewing is a great place to bring you kids, as there are child friendly drinks available as well. If your kids happen to have four legs, a tail, and an affinity for milk bones, you can bring them along too. There are treats at the bar if your dog needs a snack. The lawn provides a great space for kids, dogs, and grownups to sit and enjoy the day as well. Picnic tables and benches are scattered around the space, with corn hole available for guests. There’s even a fire pit that provides warmth during the colder months, and illumination at night
Since I had yet to eat lunch, I made my way to a food truck called Cooks Lobster and Ale House. With seafood and pub fare, there’s something for everyone. Both the food truck and Flight Deck accept both cash and plastic, so paying is convenient on all fronts. Furthermore, one of the decommissioned planes is close by, providing a photo opportunity for guests. Flight Deck host a whole slew of events as well, which can be found on their website.
As I continue to travel to different microbreweries, I’ve begun to notice to a certain pattern. Each brewery I’ve visited has done something to make it wholly unique. Flight Deck Brewing works to embrace their roots, in their décor, as well as the “Top Gun” references. The fire pit and the food truck were nice touches that added to the atmosphere at Flight Deck. More information about Flight Deck can be found here, while their event schedule can be found here. As I wrap up this post, the ever-eternal question leaps to mind, where should I go to next?
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