Last Sunday, we were pet-sitting for my in-laws in Spring. Since everything was going smoothly, we decided to make a short trek north to Conroe and check out Southern Star’s new facility. Since this was the first trip we’d made to the new brewery, we were excited to try it out.
To our surprise, not only was the taproom open, but there was also a farmers’ market that was being held. With choices ranging from local honey, hand-crafted wooden knick-knacks, and even Indian food, there was something for just about everyone. In fact, we went ahead and bought some tikka masala and hummus from the Indian food vendor.
But the reason why we went wasn’t for the farmers’ market, it was because their beer quality. Southern Star established themselves by being really the first brewery to exclusively can in Texas. They did it before it was the trendy thing to do, so they’re considered pioneers of sorts in the local brewing scene. Now that they’ve grown to one of the favorite and larger breweries in the Houston area, we wanted to see the new facility in person.
We loved the fact that the taproom was located upstairs with an overlook of the brewing facility and the tens of thousands of cans stacked waiting to be filled with some of their terrific beers. Plus, with the taproom running a deal of $10 for three beers and a pint glass, you really can’t beat a bargain like that.
I started out with the Summer Saison since this seasonal will soon be gone once the Oktoberfest fall seasonal becomes available. My second beer was a tried and true favorite, Bombshell Blonde, and the third beer was Valkyrie Double IPA.
The beer, as always, is delicious. What I want people to know is how great the taproom is. It’s a wide open space with several beautifully crafted long tables and benches. With an option of either bringing in food or buying some of the food being sold in the taproom (like Russo’s Pizzeria), you can always find something to eat. Plus, it’s kid-friendly (a vending machine will supply you with soft drinks), so it makes for an enjoyable place to take the family.
This is definitely a place I wish to return. With an outstanding taproom, great beer, and several events that keep the place interesting each time you return, it’s clear Southern Star’s new facility is one that everybody should visit and enjoy first hand.