All About Northern Row

Northern Row had a LONG go of it, getting their brewery open and running. Even after they finally got brewing, it still took a LONG time to get their taproom open too… and then? Then, after all that we’re hit by the Corona-Shutdown.

None of it stopped them though… and that’s something to be said even before you step foot inside, or try a single one of their beers, wines, or spirits. Yes, you heard that right – not only does Northern Row operate a great brewery, but they’ve also got a distillery and a small winery all under the same roof. It’s one of those places that you can be sure that no matter who you’re out drinking with, they’ll be happy with what they find.

Located in the Northern area of OTR, they want to pay homage to the things that made that neighborhood tick back when it came into its heyday, pre-prohibition. Their tagline is that “all outcasts are welcome” – playing with the idea of the Northern Liberties area of OTR, and the “folks” who would have frequented the area when it was in it’s heyday,

What’s Northern Row Like?

The Northern Row taproom oozes history. The space is full of dark, reclaimed wood – beautiful steel beams and walls that are literally feet thick. When you’re inside the building you can feel time almost reverse, bringing you back to another time period in Cincinnati’s history.

They have spent a lot of time sourcing stuff for their taproom – from incredible railcar-like tables to a huge rowing boat that spans the entire ceiling of the taproom, every corner that you look in holds something that makes you curious to know its story. I am not making it up when I tell you that these guys have one of the best taprooms in this city. It captures the vibe perfectly.

A big wooden bar sits on one side of the room, serving up a great line up of traditional lagers alongside more modern ‘craft’ styles, cocktails, spirits, wine… everything you can hope for.

The Complete Northern Row Timeline

  • June 2018 – The brewery starts releasing their beer, for distribution only.
  • June 5th, 2020 – The Northern Row taproom finally opens for business
  • January 15, 2021 – Five Stories, the distillery side of Northern Row launches their first spirits.
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