Thunder Canyon Brewery

This restaurant just barely makes the 4th star - better than BJ's, Nimbus and other comparable experiences, yet could improve.  A decent selection of beer that they brew.  Upon sampling a flight, the Jeremiah Red is probably my favorite - though they were all very good.

The appetizers are priced a touch too high for the quality.  The pretzels with dipping cheeses are pretty good, and the chili was flavorful and not too spicy - but for $6 a cup, could have a bit more depth and better quality meat.

The entrees are modestly priced.
- The bangers and mash are a favorite - the sausages are homemade. lean and simmered in beer, served with mashed potatoes that are topped with creamed leeks and served with a side of creamy, mild mustard that also has a hint of beer in it - for under $10.  
- The brisket and pulled pork are well prepared, smooth and not tough - served with a selection of 4 different barbecue sauces that are also fantastic.  I'm not a fan of their fries, mini potato wedges, as they are too dry.
- Kids eat for $1.99 on Mondays, 2 kids per adult - dandy.

They have their TVs in the bar area and there is a separate dining area free from all the sports, so TCB can serve 2 different clientele.  There is also a front patio which is modern.  The place has a dark amber glow to it, perhaps a little better lighting?  The chairs and booths are not terribly comfortable - feel like they might give way.

The servers never seem completely knowledgeable (they have to go check soup of the day, sausage of the day, when you ask them about beer they point to a list on the wall).  They all need just a refresher course.  Otherwise, prompt and polite and generally accurate.

Crappy Hostess Syndrome (CHS - see my review of Sakura):  they feign a smile but are disjointed and disinterested in helping, and seem to get a sadistic glee in telling you that there is a wait.  Maybe this is the only power these young girls will ever have in their lifetime and they are making the most of it - just give them a pitchfork and Snidely Whiplash as their uniform to complete the experience.

My wife and I had been wanting to try TCB for sometime now and after our experience the other night will likely never go back again. For starters, we had to pay to sample some of their house brews. Most places I've been too bring you sample cups free of charge. Being a fan of red beers we decided to go with their Deep Canyon Amber. Though a decent house brew it is nothing compared to the Old Bisbee Brewing Company's Copper City Ale or BJ's Jeremiah Red. It was also served extremely warm, making a tall glass too warm to enjoy.

Our dinner arrived very quickly, which should be a good  thing, but in this case gave us the impression that it was definitely microwaved. She ordered the nachos which came out soggy and without cheese and I ordered the mac & cheese which quite frankly reminded me of a frozen meal.

The only enjoyable part of our dining experience was the manager spent a considerable amount of time explaining their brewery and purchased a beer for us.

We have been here every time we come to Tucson because it is that good. The happy hour is amazing and very kid friendly. Sign up for their customer care club too because you get amazing deals on birthdays and anniversaries. I love the ciders and the TCB dip from a bread bowl, you can not go wrong!