Happy Hours in Gaithersburg

227 E. Diamond Ave Gaithersburg, MD  20877 301-519-9400 Themes/Styles:  American / Microbrew/Alehouse / Restaurant w/Bar Parking Accessibility:  Easy About 1 mile from I-270 Exit 10, but navigating to Old Towne can be less than intuitive for a first-timer, and the railroad crossings can add time to your trip. Small lot behind the building, but a large free garage (w/ walking bridge) is located across the tracks.
Metro Accessibility:  Annoying Not accessible via Metro (unless taking buses), but the MARC train stops right behind Growlers, making it a popular pit stop for MARC riders.

What is Growlers?

Growlers is a corner microbrewery in Old Towne Gaithersburg. The downstairs contains a small bar, main restaurant area, and semi-private seating areas (one tucked by the kitchen, one above overlooking the bar and fermentation tanks). The upstairs (accessed through a doored "stairwell") holds the larger pub room with an extensive bar and bar tables, and a stage for live performances. Off of the pub room is a covered deck with another full-service bar. The decor is inviting with warm colors, solid wood and brass fixtures. Outside Area:  Yes.  Covered deck with full bar, tables, and chairs on second floor overlooking the main street and alley. Entertainment:  Yes.  Downstairs: a couple TVs. Upstairs: A few TVs and arcade games.

Our Review

Residing in a 19th-century historic building (claimed to be Gaithersburg’s oldest commercial building), the first thing you notice about Growlers is the very original layout. The atmosphere is very warm and cozy with bright walls, wood & brass fixtures, and beer growler decorations. The downstairs can fill up fast, as the bar area is small with room for about 16 people. This is usually not a problem since the upstairs pub room opens at 4pm~~ and has plenty of space. However, it may be a good idea to call ahead to find out if the pub room has been reserved for a private party (common during the holidays). But even when the place got busy, the oddly-shaped rooms kept the noise level low. The service is quick and professional. Patron style is mostly casual and relaxed, and seemingly local and regular, which fits well with the classic rock playlist piped in from the XM Satellite Radio. The deck on the upper floor becomes the hangout for smokers and people enjoying the outside air. The house-brewed beer is very decent, and with about 8 different styles on tap), can please many tastes. The happy hour appetizer menu is a good value, and the regular menu is pretty original, well-prepared, and a great value considering everything costs $7-$12.

The Run Down

If you’re looking for a local feel in a unique historical building to chat over some house brew, this is the place for you. If you’re looking for business networking or a fast-paced feeling, Growlers may not be your speed.

Reviewed by Lee on Wednesday, December 12, 2007.