Beer, pool, food and… beer — these are the four things in life that are closest to me. Now an astute reader would recognize that I counted 'beer' twice and may wonder why. My answer: take a vacation from your normal State Street pub crawl and walk to The Great Dane near the Capitol Square and you'll know exactly why.
The Dane brews the finest beers I have ever indulged in. And at any given time, you'll find at least 12 types on tap. My personal favorite, Devils Lake Red Lager, was created by their brewmaster and, according to their website, allows one to experience the "…smooth blend of slightly sweet malt flavors balanced by the full taste and aroma of the renowned Hallertau hop." I don't know what that means, but with that hop, I just can't stop.
Despite my affection for Miller Lite, to ask for it here would be an insult to the brewmaster. No, no foolish one, you should at least reach for the Landmark Lite, which tastes greater, and is less filling… Well, at least it tastes greater.
Along with their upscale beers, The Dane also offers an upscale atmosphere with its upscale display of debauchery. Sorry freshmen, even if your fake ID does work here, you just won't fit in.
How much would you be willing to pay for these 12 wonders of the world? Fortunately, even college students can afford this lager as the 20 oz. concoctions are moderately priced at $3.75. Even better, come during happy hour (M-F 4-6p) and pay only $2.50. Or come Sundays after 9 p.m. for $2.50 drinks plus live music.
Of course don't forget to play some nine-ball between your swigs of Black Earth Porter. You can play billiards any day for $4 an hour from 11a.m.-6p.m., but economic forces bump up the hourly rate to $8 after that. While normally I would agree these prices are a bit too rich for my blood, I'm willing to forego the couple extra dollars when I'm consuming the Crop Circle Wheat.
Last but not least, make sure you augment your liquid main course with their fabulous fare. I recommend their chicken nachos ($8.95). But don't even attempt this mountain of munchies without a companion — there is just too much.
Regardless of your ranking of my four favorite things in life, okay it's only three, The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. at 123 E. Doty Street is where you want to be. Also feel free to venture to Fitchburg to check out their newer location if you're in the mood for a little table shuffleboard.