I love this place. It brings back so many memories. Unfortunately, two of the items that I really wanted are now seasonal items, John Brown Ale and artichoke dip. Fortunately, the Oktoberfest and fish and chips did me just right.
Free State Brewing Company, located in Lawrence, Kansas, holds the distinction of being the first legal brewery in the state since Prohibition ended. Established in 1989 by Chuck Magerl, it quickly became a local favorite and a pioneer in the craft beer movement in Kansas. Located in a historic building on Massachusetts Street, Free State Brewing introduced a variety of innovative beers that celebrated both traditional brewing techniques and contemporary flavors. Its flagship beer, Ad Astra Ale, pays homage to the state’s motto “Ad Astra per Aspera” (To the Stars Through Difficulties) and reflects the brewery’s commitment to quality and community. Over the years, Free State Brewing has expanded its distribution beyond Lawrence, making its mark in the broader Midwestern craft beer scene while remaining a beloved local institution.
