Patio Time at Big Ridge Brewing Co.
One of the best parts about having a local go-to patio is knowing exactly what to expect each time you visit. So, on a sunny afternoon, when your kids requests to visit Big Ridge Brewing Co. for lunch, you know its patio time!
Yes, my kids love going to Big Ridge Brewing Co. because they know they like the Kid’s Menu, the staff are great with them AND they have the best colouring boxes around. Not only are there crayons and activity sheets, but many hours have been spent creating animals, glasses and crowns with the sticky twists that are also in the box. Honestly, Big Ridge gets that distracted kids are quiet kids, and quiet kids equals happy parents. Another win for me.
We took our colouring boxes out into a quiet corner of the patio and chatted with “Fred” while we looked over the menu. If you’ve frequented Big Ridge Brewing Co. in the last few years, you’ve likely met Fred. No, this is not her real name – but what a fantastic way to start up a conversation with your customers.
I wasn’t sure what I was in the mood for, but I knew I wanted to try the Big Ridge and High Valley Brewing Co. Brett Sour collaboration. She was quick to help me think through a few pizza or noodle bowl options, but the trusty Rocket Chicken Sandwich won the decision.
We started with the Spicy Tofu appetizer, which has been a longtime favourite of mine. The crispy fried tofu with plenty of garlic, chilies, and spice; always hits the spot and it is truly crave-worthy. I may or may not have sent the hubs out for an order of them while pregnant… more than once.
The kids and I sat back and enjoyed the spring sun, coloured and made sculptures while we waited for our lunch. Feeling relaxed and not rushed is always a bonus when you’re out with kids and I love that I can be my usual Mom-who-like-a-beer self when I’m out with mine.
The Rocket Chicken Sandwich did not disappoint. The breaded chicken breast with the mix of bacon, arugula, and Dijon mayo did pair perfectly with the wheat sour beer. My kids are always down for some cheese pizza, which they claim is their favourite here, and we all shared from our meals with the little guy.
When he was more than done with sitting still, the staff and other patrons were kind enough to allow him to explore the patio while I finished my beer. It’s not lost on me that not every patio, or even dining experience, can be so calm and enjoyable, but we certainly did enjoy our afternoon in the sun at Big Ridge Brewing Co. Trust me, the hubs and I are more than ready for a date night. Where should we try? Time alone without the kids – we’ll even take a fancy McDonald’s at this point.
Oh, and the beer? I’m a huge sour and Brett style fan so it was perfectly hoppy but not too bitter for my taste. It was light and just tart enough to savour alongside my meal. And the best part is, their brewery is right on-site. So you best believe that I got a growler filled to take home and share with the hubs. We have to enjoy the little moments while we can – until that date night.
Author: Erin Miller Schumann
Erin is proudly Surrey born and raised. She is the owner of The Yellow Umbrella Co. Virtual Assistant Services and loves working alongside fellow small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Fraser Valley. She believes that a good meal is a perfect excuse to try something new - whether its a locally made wine or beer, a topic of conversation, or an entirely new culinary experience. Food, coffee, and wine keep her motivated while reading, writing and her love of music keep her grounded enough to give all her extra focus to her husband, two daughters, and son. Erin is always open to meeting new friends over said coffee or a glass of wine and will never say no to a T-Rex joke.
