The Birch
1231 W Olney Rd, Norfolk, VA, 23507
The Birch Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Norfolk for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Norfolk for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Norfolk for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
1231 W Olney Rd
Norfolk, VA, 23507 - Phone (757) 962-5400
- Website https://www.thebirchbar.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Tue
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner, Late Night
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Hipster
Noise Level : Average
Music : Background
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Wed, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
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Matthew M.
Chick that designed the logo killed it! Homie that selects the beer destroys it! Website is murder! Put them all together and you have the dopest beer bar in Norfolk easily. Place is so great that just thinking about it is about to sprout a birch tree in my pants...
(5)Camille M.
If you are a fan of the weird, the obscure, the funky...this is the spot for you. Two of my friends raved about this joint so much that I popped in a few months ago and fell head over heels for it! The extensive (and very European) beer list is out of this world. Yes, the drinks are pricey, but they had to sail on a big ship to our shores, so consider that. If there are TRUE cider fans out there, then the Etienne DuPont will strike your fancy. Ben and Malia (owners, bartenders and the cutest married duo ever) are on hand, along with Malia's mom, to sling drinks and get you to try new things. They also have a cheese pairing menu, but I haven't tried it yet, so I can't speak on it, but it looked promising. All in all, if you need a new "fancy" joint to try, head over to West Ghent and get thee to The Birch Bar. P.S. Parking is a pain to find on busy nights, but don't let that discourage you. Think of the walk as exercise to melt the beer away ;)
(4)Jeffrey D.
Birch Bar would get five stars from me if it wasn't so expensive. True, you can only get this selection at very few places, but it's a little too much. Also, I didn't really appreciate receiving my beers in wine glasses. It cut down on the beer amount and looked to dainty to be a beer glass!
(4)Rachel W.
This is a great, local bar in Norfolk. No where else in Norfolk can you find this great of a beer selection. Prices are somewhat high, but not for what you're getting. Every beer on the menu is top quality. Staff is friendly and kind and the atmosphere is fun and laid back. Only downside is lack of food on the menu. If you're looking for a great dinner with your beer, you might want to go elsewhere. All around though, great bar!
(4)Paul M.
Still a great craft beer selection!
(5)Brad M.
The Birch Bar is definitely a hidden 'gem' in an odd industrial area of Ghent/Norfolk. Once you're there, though, you'll be surprised by the hip and relaxed atmosphere. If you're not into beer, this might not be the best place for you. If you ARE, however, then it might just be your favorite friday night stop! They have a long list of draft beers that (from what I understand) changes periodically so you can really get a good taste of small breweries from around the world! The prices here are somewhat reasonable for what you get ($7 for about a pint?), but it's hard for me to say since I have no idea what it costs to import beer. They also have the option to take beer home with you in a jug if you're into that! There are a few outside tables in their patio, which we loved during a perfect friday night after the rain. One draw-back I found was that the service was sloww. We only had 1 beer (for each of 4 people) and it took about an hour to order, get our drinks, and pay. They were very nice and helpful, but I didn't feel like it was all that crowded for taking as long as it did. I should also mentioned that we got their soft pretzel, which was pretty good (4/5) and included a very good mustard seed sauce! The waitress gave us a good pitch for the food truck that parks outside the restaurant (and that has food you can bring in while you drink) on Fridays and (I think?) Wednesdays. She mentioned they constantly change the type of food it has, but on our visit they had burgers. I would have tried it if we weren't going to dinner right after. It did make me wonder about the quality of their own food since the place's own staff was pushing us towards someone else's after we asked about theirs. Overall, I think everyone in our group wants to go back in the near future! It's a little too expensive and too slow, however, for it to be a weekly place for busy and poor students like us.
(4)Thomas P.
Love the rare beer selection, tad pricey and this owner must be trying to out-do all the other area beer menus, I didn't recognize one beer on the menu, that can be good and it can be bad for some.
(4)Cory S.
I have to say that I love the selection of beers, however - I felt like I was drinking in a garage, waiting for the cops to bust through the door and we run off into the sunset as all high school parties end. Their lack of menu also leaves much to be desired. Their cheese plates are AWESOME, and that combined with a Framboise Lambic is what's getting them 3 stars. Perfect match. Their knowledge of beer is also top notch. The price you pay for their beers, and their lack of food is what keeps me from giving them higher stars. The Yard House in Town Center has a phenomenal beer selection as well, and they have an extensive menu.
(3)Sean P.
Wow just wow this place is a place to treat your pallet. I'm on my third beer of the night and all I can say is amazing. This has been an exercise of my taste buds. Every beer so far has been an adventure for my taste buds. With 24 beers on tap and a two page selection of bottles and cans you can honestly entertain your mouth with flavors you've never tasted before and probably will never taste again unless you get the same beer again.
(5)Ed C.
Yes Yes Yes. A great place to sit with friends, drink some great beers, and not have to talk over really loud music. They have an extensive list of draft and bottles, stuff that you probably haven't heard of, and the staff there is eager to pint you in the right direction for a good beer. This place won't make my list of cheap places to drink by a long shot. And that's fine. Cheap beer doesn't exist here. The least expensive draft is $4.50, which doesn't break the bank and you'll be getting something much more tastier than anything you'll find around the corner. Just make sure you're keeping track of what each beer costs- it's easy to mistakenly order a $25 pint. And doing that would piss you off very fast. My only gripe is that they charge for bar nuts. They're freakin assorted nuts. Sure their blend of nuts are tasty, but come on. Let me spend that $3 on another beer. Can't wait for summer- the patio area will be awesome.
(4)Janelle C.
Excellent beer selection. And I'm OK with beer, don't get me wrong. But what I really love about this place is the cheese selection and the Friday night beer-cheese pairing. This weekly offering pairs three beers (a generous "tasting" pour of a couple of ounces) with three cheeses. Try one for $5-$6 or all three for $15. I always choose all three, of course! The owners are friendly, and all over social media promoting other small businesses too. The space is funky and interesting and fits in well in West Ghent, near Tortilla West and Cruzers. The beers head to the pricey side, so just beware when you order. Oh, and a final note: On the menu, don't order the popcorn, snack mix, etc. It's pretty much a ripoff when you get microwave popcorn or snacks from CostCo-size buckets in a tiny bowl. Stick with beer and cheese - nothing wrong with that!
(4)Gary H.
Holy crap. Great craft beer selection. The location out in West Ghent is a little off the beaten path of Ghent if you're walking (and trust me, you'll want to walk if at all possible)--but totally doable if you're not a punk ass bitch. It's right next to Tortilla West (also fantastic)--so if you're not in to the food selection at The Birch, you have options. Beer. This place is all about beer. If you would never stray from Bud Light this place is probably not for you. If you like to try new beers with robust and interesting flavors, this is the place for you. Most of the beer selection appears to be European (check out their website for an up to date listing). The draft selection is always fantastic. I have yet to order a growler (I have a hard time committing that much to any one beer) but it's good to know that I have the option in the event that I fall hopelessly in love. The service has always been good for me. The guy that's running the place really knows what he is doing and is very willing to help you find something that will appeal to your taste buds. Overall, I have to say that this is my favorite place in Ghent to grab a beer.
(5)D K.
There's no other bar like it anywhere near here. Service can be slow if it's busy, and the prices seem steep but you really can't get this beer anywhere else. If you know what you are getting into this place rocks. What you should know is the following: 1) Beer is expensive here. This isn't a place you go to order PBR after PBR. It's expensive for a reason though, as it is either imported, rare, or just really good beer. 2) This is not a place you want to go for a meal. It is very plain the Birch is for beer. They have food, but it's very basic (great cheeses though) and not meant for full-meal type experience. 3) This is a good place for learning. The owners have a passion for beer and it shows. They are always happy to make a recommendation so if you need one just ask
(5)Liz B.
It is funky and the selection awesome. But let's face it, extremely expensive. Flight of three very small beers $15, and unfortunately lacking taste, yet if same beer was purchased separately $12. Wait, what? Good price for small snacks, comfortable bar.
(2)Christopher B.
I'm glad that there's a craft beer bar in Hampton Roads that refuses to go mainstream. I'm not glad that the tap list is always 90% European and essentially completely ignores the hundreds or thousands of high-quality American microbrews that exist now. The Birch's beers are great, the staff is knowledgeable, the atmosphere is smart, but it's possible to do SO MUCH BETTER than this when it comes to offering fantastic beer for an accessible price, and supporting the God d***ed U. S. of A. in the process. Just look in your own backyard, guys.
(3)Barry H.
Beer. Cheese. This is where barley malt dies and goes to heaven. Go elsewhere for wine. Go elsewhere to be noticed. Where else can you buy Gueze at a bar?
(5)Mark O.
Visited The Birch for their 43 Hours of Dark event. Great selection of beers, jammed packed 15 mins after opening, great service and friendly people. And what a selection. Kept muttering to myself "how do they get these beers in Norfolk?" It appears to be a bit off of the beaten path butte drove down from Richmond and found it no sweat. Literally around the corner from Smartmouth...make a day of it, and find a motel!
(5)Adam V.
The Birch has best beer selection in Norfolk and maybe throughout the Hampton Roads area! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their beers. The interior is minimalistic with dark walls and low lighting. When you walk in be sure to check out the chalkboard on the left at the end of the bar for the ever changing draft list. They have half and full pours for every beer and for some of the drafts they'll even fill up a growler for you if you bring one in or purchase one there. The beers are more expensive than most bars in the area because of the variety and quality of what the Birch has to offer. No other bar in the area carries any of the same beers with the exception of maybe a few at Bier Garden. Make sure you get there early on the weekend because it can occasionally be tough to get in when there crowd because of the small space. All in all the Birch is a great little spot to enjoy craft beers!
(5)Russ B.
First, let me say that I've waited nearly a month to visit this place. I've been monitoring their facebook page and website and itching to get there and try one of the best craft selections in the area. My friends and I arrived at 830, not really the busiest time to visit a bar on a Friday night. The "door guy" greeted us as we walked up and said "sorry, we're at capacity right now. I can't let you in until some people leave." I looked over his should and saw that while all the tables were full, it certainly wasn't "bar full." But then the guy tells us we can wait on the porch area and someone would come by to serve us out there while we wait. My friends and i thought we'd give it a try. After all, I had been waiting to go to this place for a while. We stood in the porch area for 15 minutes before we saw a waitress. She handed us a food menu but no beer menu. "Can we see a beer list. That's why we're here," we told her and she said she'd try to find one for us. Another 5 minutes go by and a waiter walks by. "Can we get a beer list" we asked him. He replies "man they're all the over the place. I don't think we have any more." Um, what? How are we supposed to order beer without a list? The guy finally comes back with a bottled craft beer list. Awesome list, but one problem....it doesn't list the beers on tap! Apparently that is on a board on the inside. So I went to the doorman to ask if we could go inside to look at the board to see what crafts they have on tap. We were told no. Can you at least take my droid phone inside and take a picture of the board for me so me and my friends can order a beer after waiting out here for 20 minutes? "I don't think so, let me ask my boss." After waiting another 10 minutes we ended up leaving. Given some of the other negative reviews, The Birch really needs to start understanding that an impressive beer list is just a start. The other 75% of the experience is service. Waiting 30 minutes and not even getting the opportunity to see what specialty beers are on tap is INSANE. This place is run so poorly the beer list is overshadowed by horrible management, poor planning, and the inability to see that running a craft beer bar is more than saying you have a craft beer bar.
(1)Jeff A.
This is a beer bar plain and simple, and in that regard you will be hard pressed to find a better beer bar in the city/state/region. It truly is a beer lover's paradise. The draft and bottle list are ever changing and there isn't a bad beer in the bunch. We are talking world class beers on a regular basis. That being said, if you have a problem paying more than $5 for a beer this is not the place for you. Sorry. Not only will you find knowledgeable staff eager to guide you in your selection, the unconventional look and feel of the venue add to the distinct vibe you wil find only at The Birch. Be it fellow patrons commenting on your beer selection, invigorating conversations with complete strangers, helping a lost soul staring helplessly at the list of 21 unique drafts, or just frothing at the mouth for one of the vintage bottles newly added to the bottle list... The Birch provides a truly unique experience. I drive from Williamsburg on a regular basis just to get my fix. That's a helluva endorsement considering fuel prices at the moment. For those miffed about being turned away at the door... that is to protect the integrity of what makes The Birch so great: the atmosphere. Ben would rather provide a memorable evening of individual attention and comfortable seating then cram the space like a cattle cart and make you wade through a sea of bodies to grab your next brew. It's a tiny place with a massive regional footprint in terms of buzz. I implore you to give it another chance and you'll see why.
(5)Betty T.
This place is awesome. Their selection of beer available is one of the best I have ever found. I suggest going for tasting Tuesdays, when they sell smaller sample sizes of the brews. There also is beer education Wednesdays, beer and cheese pairing Friday, and probably some other specials I don't know about. Only complaint is they don't fill 32/16oz growlers and they lowest price for a growler is $20. This is understandable considering their selection. I just want more reasonably priced growler fills in Norfolk. Edit: One of the owners followed up with me. The reason they don't offer smaller growlers is because of city regulations. Also, they introduced half pours since I posted my last review. Definitely a huge plus for those of us that like to try everything.
(5)Alex M.
Don't expect to get any food here.... It's all about beer. Has an incredible selection from all over the world but mostly European varieties. If you're hungry, walk around the corner to tortilla west and get the fish burrito... You won't be disappointed one bit.
(5)Jason B.
The Greatest Bar around!! Fantastic owners who know their customers and the most fantastic and spectacular beer choices out there. Guaranteed to have new and interesting beers available that you never tried. Grilled cheese sandwiches or truffles or other snackables always hit the spot they have great taste in music! Truly a gem of Hampton Roads so get there and try it now!!
(5)Melissa S.
Servers are friendly and knowledgable. The beers are of incredible quality and there is an excellent variety; there are even rarities. There is a great atmosphere with good music. It's a nice place for chilling out and can easily be your go-to hang out spot.
(5)Noel F.
Love the staff, love the beer!
(5)Liz C.
I know I'm going against the grain here, but I've gotta agree with Samantha P. Alright, dynamite beer selection. But not worth the prices or the holier-than-thou hipster attitude. I'd rather go to the Bier Garden, get a reasonably-priced sandwich, and a beer recommendation with a smile, not a sneer.
(2)Thomas L.
Beer. Good beer. Beer you can't get anywhere else in Norfolk. That's what Birch is all about, and it's a beautiful thing. Some of the not-great reviews here are slamming them for service, but we had no complaints when we visited (of course, they weren't at capacity). The owner was very helpful, and he seemed to really be enjoying himself. Some of the service-related complaints are probably a result of the staff getting on their feet. It's a brand new place, after all. As for the food menu, what can you say? They focused on providing craft brews, not on the kitchen. Maybe once they get established they'll expand the food offerings. Or not. Who cares? I loved it. So, why not five stars? Because it's a little pricey. I don't have a problem paying good money for good beer, but a visit to the Birch, for me, has to be something of a luxury, a rare thing. Also, I think people tend to discount over-zealous five-star reviews!
(4)Ken R.
OMFG. The Birch calls itself a beer bar. I guess that's what it is. To me it's a destination. Their menu is Spartan at best (a $7 PB&J) but let's face it, food isn't the reason you go there. Beer is. Phenomenal beer. Unless you're a real connoisseur of beer chances are you've never heard of the beers they have on tap. There isn't a collection of beers like this anywhere near it. You're going to throw down some coin - no doubt about it, but chances are you're getting a beer you've never heard of, nor will taste again. The Friday cheese and beer pairings are spectacular. A thrill to the senses. If you are a fan of craft beer, I couldn't recommend it more. Warning - don't ask for a bud light, or pretty much any beer you've ever seen on a commercial.. Because they're so not gonna have that.
(5)David D.
Beer, beer and more beer. Only interesting beer need apply. This is not a beer dive, corner tap or place to go get hammered unless you feel like dropping a lot of change. Thumbs up for the beer variety, the service and the fact that they do try and serve the beer in their appropriately branded glassware. Thumbs up on the cheese variety...but thumbs down on the cheese portions. Price/quantity ratio is a bit high on that offering. Overall: two thumbs up. I look forward to returning and trying another interesting and tasty import.
(4)Sarah T.
The bottom line is that this is a place to go for beer and beer alone. The bottled craft beer list is extensive and the draft list ever-changing. Yes, it can be pricy, but you're not going there for $5 pitchers of crappy beer. You're going there because you like the adventure of hunting for the next great pint. Ultimately, though, it's about the staff. Half the fun is learning about the beer, so don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. With owner, Ben, behind the bar, you're sure to get something delicious. However, the main question is, how long can they last in Norfolk? They've got a great thing going but perhaps too limited of a scope. The eats are pretty limited and honestly not great beer food. And if you don't like beer, well, you're just out of luck. Fingers crossed though that Norfolk will support them and keep them in business.
(4)Jordan B.
Great beer. Staff more then welcome to let you sample things and recommend cheese pairings. Our server was mediocre but she still got the job done. I plan go be back because they offer a wonderful atmosphere and a great selection
(4)Cyrus H.
Best beer bar in VA by far! NOT for the bud/miller type people.
(5)Liz M.
This is a beer joint, plain and simple. And a great one at that. Ask your server for a recommendation based on what you tend to like, and enjoy the experience of tasting something new. It's not a big place, but the atmosphere is great. Always has a good vibe. We love the drinks and conversations with the owners Ben and Malia. The rest of the staff is just as gracious. Also consider purchasing a growler to take a tasty beer home, or stop by on Fridays for their beer and cheese pairing menu. This place is a regular stop for us now each weekend. It's absolutely one of my favorite places to be.
(5)Samantha P.
So here's the deal. 5-star beer selection but the pricing makes it just OK for me. Half of the stuff they carry I've never seen anywhere else in my life, that you can get away with selling at a super premium. The other half of the selection is available at the Bier Garden at a much fairer price. Expect to easily pay $10 a beer after taxes and tip on average. Hungry? Not the place for you... $10-$12 micro cheese plates and bar snacks. The atmosphere is really lacking as well. Just a dark room full of chairs. So it sounds like I'm complaining but I'm still giving it 3 stars for daring to carry some of the odd beers that they do and opening a beer bar in a weird neighborhood in Norfolk. I just can't get over the prices. I'm pretty sure even the Church Key in Downtown DC is cheaper.
(3)Brandon J.
I am a self proclaimed beer snob. This bar made me feel like I was in beer grade school. I have tried several hundred different beers, and I hadn't even heard of most of the beers they had on draught. Owner Ben and his wife (Malia I believe) are great people who are truly passionate and knowledgeable about beer. The locals there were really nice, and good conversations were had. This is absolutely my go too beer place in the entire Hampton Roads. If you are truly passionate about beer, this place is a gold mine.
(5)Rachel W.
Good selection of beer and small bites but way overpriced. I'm sure there are reasons for such prices, but I won't be frequenting this bar.
(2)Taylor B.
Go only if you want beer but if beer is what you are after then you will not be disappointed. Great selection not available anywhere else in Norfolk and a helpful staff. I hope I am wrong but it may be too limited to last in Norfolk. Go while you still can!
(4)Robert A.
Getting better... So maybe I'm just cheap but I appreciate the fact that they have added a selection of $5 pints. Some of them are actually really good deals too. Had an IPA the other week for $5 that was $21 a bottle at Tortilla West! Of course the bottle was a 750ml but still $5 was probably only a dollar or two over retail.
(4)Mike P.
Server was very nice and knowledgeable lady. Beers were fun. Food was good too! Will be back!
(5)Brian S.
Hoo-ray beer! Although the list doesn't quite stand up to the Bier Garden, it more than holds its own. To put that in perspective for the uninitiated, I was surprised that Sierra Nevada made the cut to be on the list (although props for serving the 24 ounce bottles). What I love most are the snacks: popcorn, pretzels, and beer nuts, aka perfect drinking food. It would be nice to be able to order real food (and I have no idea how they'll be able to meet ABC standards in that respect), but the owners have clearly decided that this is a place for drinking great beer and that's it. Come early as there's not a lot of seating and people aren't leaving once they get a chance to sit down, and bring some money because the tab can grow quickly.. Service was spotty, but I am going to assume it's because the place is new and the staff is still getting settled. Public House will definitely be at a disadvantage when it opens as Birch is sure to develop a loyal following. I know I'm one of them.
(4)hank r.
Great crowd for a Tuesday. Friendly service, great beer, quaint bar, friendly people. This place kicks the crap out of the taphouse.
(5)Karen K.
First time at The Birch and it was a delightful surprise. You can't tell from the outside that it's a bar because it's in an area where not too much is surrounding it but it's such an awesome place and the atmosphere is very clam and chill. It's a small very hipster bar. Good for everyone, I even saw someone bring in there kid. The beer selection is huge. They also have a cheese plater or charcuterie selection which taste great. I had the truffle and chorizo that was my favorite. It's in the heart of Ghent so great place to check out local vibes.
(4)GT W.
I had three days off and no plans, so the wife and I decided to pick a place and go. There was recently a thread on ratebeer claiming a lot of places get spam high reviews and mentioned The Birch. I was skeptical at first too. So I tried it out for myself! The location is very odd, 50 yards from an industrial loading dock and in a sort of low-income neighborhood. Next door seems to be a popular Mexican restaurant and bar. Parking along the street seemed to be enforced by resident permit, but around the corner closer to the dock entrance there is unlimited parking after 6PM I think. The inside is modest, homely, tavern-like, definitely a locals' bar with a lot of regulars, dark lighting, chalk board tap list. 20 Taps about with a lot of variety and nearly everything being odd or difficult to find. When I was there it was "43 Hours of Dark" where everything on tap was relatively dark...imperial stouts and such. Also a lot of one-offs from B. United's Zymatore series, some of which were very good. The staff are pretty much the bar owners, who chatted with us and made us feel at home. After ticking the tap list, I was asking about some bottles in their cellar that were on display. Unfortunately, those bottles are for display only and I guess are the owners' own private cellar. A bit of a tease but okay. But, the bottle I asked out was suddenly popped and sitting in front of me compliments of the house. What!? I ran to the car to bring some special beer to share as well. Really neat environment. Went back the next day to try the cheese plates and new things on the tap list. Likewise, we got to split an odd bottle from the cellar that the owners picked out for us. Awesome! PROS: homely environment, rapid keg rotation, rarities/one-offs, amazing staff, crazy licensing here to allow bottles to go/bottles to bring in/growlers to go, informal bottle sharability CONS: bizarre location, fairly pricey, cellar is not for sale via bottle list, minimal food/snack options though the cheese/olive/sausage plate is nice for palate cleansing. So a must go location for any beer hunter/nerd and remember to eat beforehand and bring some special beers to share with the staff.
(5)Sean M.
This is my Mecca. Simply put, one of the best, if not the best, craft beer bar in America. An amazingly curated draft and bottle list, cheese board, charcuterie selection, and amazing staff. Their special events (called "43 Hours of _________") are excellent opportunities to experience more of different varietals of beer, along with parings. This place deserves 1000 stars, but I can only give it 5, so it gets 5 stars.
(5)Veronika R.
Get the snack mix! Get it! You'll be sorry if you don't! You've heard of a wine & cheese, but the Birch brings the same finesse to beer & cheese! It looks like an old garage turned micro-brewery. This place is hoppin', even late on a weeknight. Don't neglect the wall of beer. If you need help, the staff is good at guiding you through your beer adventure. They were both friendly and attentive. And definitely get something to eat. They take their food as seriously as they take their beer. It will not disappoint!
(5)J David H.
Is The Birch a sophisticated drinking establishment in disguise as a dive bar. I mean anyone that has seen the neighborhood next to a military installation in a residential hood may ask the same. The fact it's in a cinder block building would beg the question. It's housed under same roof as Tortilla W. Parking is strictly off street if you can find it. They are closed Sunday and Monday, but Tuesday and Wednesday are not crowded and parking should not be an issue. On my walk to the joint I saw no excessive debris and no scary looking hipsters. I did smell the waffling odor of some reefer when passing Tortilla West, but who doesn't love that smell. On warm evenings the front turns outdoor patio, but it was 29 degrees and tables were not set up for obvious reasons. There is also a full size garage door that is lifted up if the climate is conducive to it. I imagine this would make the atmosphere of the place really cool. It was time to head in. From the outside looking in your unsure if The Birch is even open, that's called mood lighting folks and they love it. So as I opened the door, a door you could probably have on your garage at home I immediately witness it's dead. Concrete floors, open air duct work and a large bar that seats around sixteen. Tons of taps were in front of me as I sat down and absorbed the dimensions of the watering hole. A couple of male bartenders were behind the counter with three customers. Several others were at tables located in the center. It is not a big place, but again in warmer months they can really expand. Everything was spic and span clean which will always score high for me on any business. I alluded to the lighting before, it was like a hideout from the rest of the world to enjoy beer, this was good! Cool Pandora music played overhead providing a nice tranquil vibe for the night. This changes based on the crowd of course, but it was that type of night. There was a humongous chalk board listing all the current taps and boy does it go on and on and on. I immediately got the feeling this is a refined beer connoisseur establishment even though the looks from the outside would have you and others believe differently. I only recognized a half dozen of the crafts they had listed, that was great! I saddled up to the bar and was met quickly by a male bar keep that assisted me. I was unsure of tap, or bottle and looked over the drink menu, the board menu and asked for a food menu too! I let him know it was my first time so I could get some additional lay of the land help. There are some places that the staff can come off snobish when and I had heard that this joint catered to a cultured crowd that knows there crafts. However, I did not get that feeling at all and was felt at ease as some recommendations were made. The half pours sounded like the best deal and went that direction. The Hardywood Raspberry Stout only offered in the Winter won me over and boy did it ever. It was possibly the best finishing beer I've had in my life. The knowledge level of brewery's and brews left me feeling at ease and impressed. I knew for sure that I was eating and looked over the Beer Infused Grilled Cheese sandwiches which sounded tempting to order a few. I also asked for recommendation and was not disappointed, he knew their top sellers and the nuisances of each sandwich to guide me to the best choice. I ended up picking the Schlenky which contains grafton maple smoked cheddar, green apple mustard, prosciutto for $9. It comes which chips, nuts, or a mix. A hefty price for a sandwich, but considering a new establishment in Norfolk opened up charging even more this did not appear completely out of sight, especially if was high quality as I suspected. The bartenders double as cooks and he went back and flipped the light on and got right to work. The owner Maleah came in and sat down beside me with her lap top to work. I found out she can go toe to toe with any beer geek which was impressive. The other male bartender got me another round, a Great Divide Imperial Stout on tap after discussing options. I had issues with locating the beer on untapped and he assisted which was nice. . The plating was nice on the sandwich, I mean it is a sandwich after all, but it present well for $9, ha! The flavors knocked my socks off, wonderful taste that my buds had not experienced before and assuming it was the green apple mustard which was present throughout every bite. A check in to see how I liked it was great. Water was provided upon request and refiled at the appropriate time. I tried one other before departing, the X Reserve Imperial Coffee Stout by Saucony. The head on this beer was fantastic and the taste of coffee was lingering as I finished off my sandwich. Cool atmosphere, very knowledgeable staff, clean everything including the restrooms and best of all service was well above expectations. I would easily return again and recommend.
(5)Noel M.
My favorite beer bar in the area. Always rotating tap of hard to find beers wide bottle selection, great food pairings and staff that know their stuff. Prices are very fair for the selection you get and the atmosphere is very laid back.
(5)Phillip P.
Okay, I really, really like this bar! They have a fantastic draft and bottle list with some really eclectic drinks on tap. They also offer complementary pinxtos (Basque-style tapas) during pinxto hour (T-Th from 5:00PM-6:00PM). I haven't tried their food but I've heard great things! They also allow you to bring food over from the Bakehouse and other restaurants nearby.
(4)Amanda H.
Sours & pilsners & stouts, oh my! EXCELLENT craft beer selection. Service was very friendly, too - although a group of people that came in a few minutes after we'd seated ourselves were greeted before we were. They did, however, walk right up to the bar, so for immediate service, try and grab a seat there. The venue is self-seating, but it might take a server a little while to notice you. Sitting at a table right next to the restrooms MAY not have been the best idea; it's not easy to enjoy a brew with poopy air assaulting your nostrils. It was difficult to tell if there's a matchbook in each restroom to assist (read: intensify & worsen) poo smells, or if the toilet terrorist that night had consumed a ton of burnt firewood earlier, but save yourself the risk and don't sit where we sat. Slight negatives aside, I really like this place. The music was GREAT (think Craft Spells, Beach House, Real Estate), the environment is relaxed & surprisingly unpretentious, and the service was really great. The servers really know the menu, and are a great help when attempting to figure the pricing (certain beers are available by the pour, the pint, or by the growler). Note: If your idea of good beer is anything you can pick up in the beer aisle at Walmart, you will experience a little sticker shock.
(4)Kellie K.
What an amazing find! We found this place on Beer Advocate and stopped in for a few drinks on a Friday evening. Our waitress was amazingly nice and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere was low-key and cozy. Since we were visiting from out of town, I was taking lots of annoying photos, but the waitresses actually encouraged me and helped me get better shots! They had some really rare craft beers on taps and an extensive list; the fella got some Firestone Walker and Evil Twin Biscotti, and I got a Rodenbach Grand Cru on tap, which I'm not sure I've ever seen. Awesome beer bar (with a huge cheese list and grilled cheese list) with knowledgeable, friendly staff, and an intimate atmosphere.
(5)Thomas F.
Craft beer and late-night grilled cheese! What could be better? Checked this place out after a cruise around Norfolk. Our group was looking for some good beer and a place that served late-night food. Enter The Birch. The beer menu was extensive with a lot of hard to find crafts on tap. They also had a number of casks and other drinks available. The late-night menu was composed of several different grilled cheeses. I had the traditional, but our group tried most of them and each of them was excellent.
(5)Bee L.
Amazing beer selection. Waiter knows what he was talking about. Definitely coming back for some beer and awesome cheese.
(5)Kayla J.
One of the best bars in Norfolk off the beaten path. They have the best and most obscure beer selection in Norfolk with a non pretentious atmosphere. Win Win. Happy hour is killer. And you can order pizza (the best pizza in town) from the bakery next door and they will walk it over to you inside Birch. Meat and cheese plate did take 25 minutes to get to me once when it wasn't even busy. It was lackluster.
(5)Guilherme M.
That is a very nice place, at least for me. I like the vibe, the look, the crowd and naturally the beers and cheeses. Just be prepared to spend some good money.
(4)J G.
Beer selection was top notch. The service bordered between disinterest and rude. I can get great craft beer from a lot of other places and plan to do so.
(2)Robert C.
Customer service is spelled S-H-E-L-B-Y! Wow this place rocks! Could not ask for more of an awesome staff that knows their products! First time customer, but will make this place a regular occurrence!
(5)Jennifer G.
Once again a good time. Always friendly service, awesome charcuterie trays and amazing beer! I wish we could live on this side of the water!! I'd be in trouble.
(5)Zohra B.
You want a nice place, out of the way, kind of a little town secret that serves amazing beers? You have found it here. Quaint little bar, trendy/divey, has sit up bar area, tables and an outside area to sit at. We didnt order the food, as we had just eaten, so not sure about what they offer as bar fare or the pricing. They do offer taste samples of beer, a half pour and a full pour. Which is great when you are wanting to try out a few different beers. They also offer flights for $12-15. Always a good way to go if you want to beer roulette it and have a group with diverse tastes. Bartenders are pretty quick to get your order and bring it to you, they are attentive and knowledgeable on what you may like if you can narrow it down a little as to 'not so hoppy but light"etc etc. There is definitely something there that everyone, no matter what your preference is, can find to drink, they offer some of the most interesting beers from pretty much around the world. If its still there, I recommend the 'Anise Saizon'. Im not an Anise fan, but this was really a fantastic beer, now that I am back home, I am wishing I had bought a growler of it. Pricing can be from $4-5 for a half pour to up to $9-10 for a full pour. So yeah you arent gonna get a bucket for $12. I look at it as more of a beer school, to educate your palate on what amazing libations are served around the world. And thanks to them, are now served here. :) We have already made plans to come back here next month. we 'heart' this place. *Make sure you pay attention to the gravity % in the beers that you order, it can sneak up on you. Remember this isnt your bottled miller lite. ENJOY!!!!
(5)Toby S.
I was visiting Norfolk, VA and looked high and low for a place like The Birch. Too bad I only found it on my last night there or I would have been there every night. This place is glorious! Great selection of craft beers and more. I loved the ambiance and I'm very glad that no one was weird-ed out that I was playing cards with with my fiancé. Strongly recommend this place if you like beers and I will be back next time I'm in Norfolk,VA :^)
(5)Joseph A.
This beer bar in the Chelsea section of Ghent is a perfect spot to try some exotic beers while eating one of their specialty cheese and charcuterie plates. I had a couple of bottles of Scottish Porter, and shared a meat plate with my date. All was excellent. What really blew me away was the grilled cheese sandwich- the my Blueberry Nightmare, consisting of smoked buffalo Mozzarella, fontina and prosciutto with a blueberry balsamic on crusty bread. It was amazing. What made the visit complete was the stellar service by our bartender Matt. He knew all the answers to our questions about the beer and food, and he was friendly and pleasant, which is always a plus. Over all this was a great visit and I plan on coming back often. As a plus, the music was awesome...Jack White, Green Day, The Clash and a set list of great indy music. It is kind of a "hipsterish" atmosphere, but what cool spot isn't anymore Highly recommended for good beer lovers.
(5)Peter S.
I went there twice last week. Great beer bar. Very diverse list. The bartenders Matt and Trevor were very knowledgeable and they would give me a little taste of the beer if asked. The grilled cheese was also very good. These guys are doing the right thing.
(5)Adrian E.
This is a great place to sample beers and find yourself some new favorites (or hates). I come here on occasion with my friends (probably not as much as I should) and always leave satisfied. It's a great place to meet people in the area and learn about different beers. It's pretty mind blowing seeing how there are so many other great beers out there. The staff is very helpful and can steer you in the right direction if you're not sure what to order. They're also very attentive and ask you how you feel about what you're currently drinking once you've made choices. They're usually pretty good at pinpointing some top choices based on your preferences. I just ask which is popular and kind of just go from there. Usually start with half-pours of a few beers that interests me and just later order full pours of the ones that I really liked. Since I've been coming here, I've been able to try some really tasty beers, but also some really funky ones. It's always a learning experience for me anyways, so I can't complain! I went one night where the staff from Field Guide (I think ) was previewing their waffle creations. That was a unique visit that I enjoyed and hope to attend more of their special hosting events. I love the atmosphere of the place and its somewhat hidden location. It's unique to our area being a beer bar. And as I wrap up this review, I realize I'm overdue for another visit.
(5)Chrys R.
Stopped in here while in town for a few days at the recommendation of a friend. Very impressed with the tap list, care/handling of the beer (proper glassware!), friendly and knowledgeable staff. I wasn't planning on eating dinner here, but so glad that i did - the Gose Sandwich that they recommended was excellent! Many thanks to Malia and crew, I will definitely be back at The Birch the next time I'm in town!
(5)Xavier C.
I've been coming here since the first week it opened when it was just the wife and husband team. Since then, business has been booming and everything has been going wonderful for these two. If you're a beer or cheese snob then this is your place. They always have a very diverse selection and are exceptionally versed in beer types, processes, and origination. It's kind of a small home for those who want to sink their palate into some glorious beer paired with unique cheeses. Pairings with cheese and beer for some people seems like a weird thing. However, I can assure you, when done *right* they compliment each other in an amazing way (although it can go the other way when done wrong too..) The atmosphere of this place is the epitome of dive. When you walk in the bathrooms are on the left and what you see is what you get. A bar and a bunch of tables in an open area. Basically, come in, have a seat and wait till you get served. Some nights (weekends of course) can get insanely busy. Sometimes expect to have standing room only. Even then though, the rotation of people can generally allow you to get a seat within a moderate amount of time. In general a great place for a few friends to sit down and have good beer and a good time with each other. With regards to the food - expect only "finger foods" (popcorn, chips, grilled cheese sandwich, and of course cheese platters). Don't expect to come here for dinner as that's not what this place is designed around. It's strictly for beer and the food is more to hold people over - unless you're pairing the beer with cheese. In all honesty, the food cost is a bit pricey for what you get. The chips and small things are just on the edge of pricey, but doable. With regards to the cheese, it comes with the territory of what you're getting. You're paying for unique cheeses (which is expensive to begin with) and the chance to just sample these cheeses which the owner has sought out to match with particular beers. Basically don't expect to get exotic cheese for grocery store cheese prices (if you've ever priced out nice cheese in stores you'd completely understand). The only problem I have comes with respect to my latest visit. When you first walk in, the scent of the facility is rather bad (almost rancid). It smells like beer that was left on the floor and never cleaned. I think that with the amount of volume and the general idea behind the place (let's be realistic, it's difficult to not "over-indulge" here) that beer will be spilled from time to time. I think the facility needs a thorough scrub down to give it that nice fresh scent again. Regarding our last few visits, the service needs to be kicked up just a notch. Some of the new servers may be fairly versed in beers but lack in their hospitality. I've come here enough to know that even on a bad day the owner is still very hospitable and friendly to everyone. But I guess that's the expectation of owner versus employee. Either way, I hope they find a way to improve the employee - customer relations. Considering I'm a beer snob and up-and-trying cheese person, I walk away from here usually spending around $100 for myself and my wife. They have events that keep me interested, (periods of time where they only have dark, IPA, or sour beers) beers that are absolutely unique to the area, and when the owner is there, kick-ass service. Overall, this place is definitely worth checking out as it's so unique you'd be short changing yourself if you don't. Food taste - 4 Overall Service - 3 or 4 - pending on who serves Value of food to cost - 3 Facility - 4 Repeat customer? - yes
(4)Ray G.
Very little not to like about this place - superior beer selection, great food choices to complement the beer ( including grilled cheese menu!), laid-back atmosphere, and competent unpretentious service.
(5)Rachael H.
I was excited to take my husband here on our recent trip to VA. I think this is a great spot for beer enthusiasts. They have a fantastic lineup of draft and bottled brews. They have quite a few that are not something that you will find at other microbrew spots too. I enjoyed a Steigel raddler. My husband enjoyed two beers that were new to him. On both of my visits, we have had great service too. Also, I love the neighborhood that the Birch is located in. The Birch has specialty meat and cheese charcuterie platters that we have yet to try. They also allow you to order delicious pizza from the brick oven bakery next door. Yum! If you're a microbrew enthusiast, they are also within walking distance of Smartmouth brewery, a local brewery. Also, Tortilla west is around the corner and they have a nice beer and overall drink selection too. The Birch and its neighborhood are personal favorites of mine.
(4)Ryan K.
Good Beer & Cheese, but Over Priced I've visited the Birch Bar twice now in the past year. I was recommended to check it out by a fellow Yelper for the first time. I ended up sitting at the bar and enjoyed a few beers and cheese boards with a good friend of mine. We both figured that they were both good but a little on the pricey side. I however returned 9 months later during the middle of the week and the place was literally a dead zone, except for a small group of people sitting at the tables. Being a craft beer enthusiast I have to agree with Joe D's review, along with a couple of other Yelper's in that the beer is over priced and not entirely worth the effort in visiting this establishment. It would be nice if they could incorporate some beers that are locally brewed along with the others to help support the LOCAL economic beer scene. As for the overseas beers it would be cool if they could get some Scottish "Brewdog" beers in here, which I would happily pay top dollar here to drink. But at the current rate The "Yard-house" has a lot bigger selection of beer for a decent price. The cheese they serve; however good, isn't anything that is going to fill you up, given the very minute amounts you receive for the price. **Overall I still have a lot of mixed feelings about this place. And only ever stop by if I'm in the area, as Virginia Beach is a ways to drive. Even then the price of the beer is still too pricey. Cheers!
(3)Nikko M.
CALLING ALL BEER LOVERS!!! This place has beers out the wazoo. And they don't have just any beer, they have craft beers from around the world, both on draft and in bottles. If you're looking to just try a bunch of beers, they offer half-pours as well as full-pours. If you're looking to bring beer home, they'll fill up a growler for you too! I love coming to this place at night and sitting at their tables outside. The waitstaff loves beer as much as their customers do, so they're able to give really solid recommendations if you don't even know where to start. Sometimes the amount of beer they have can be overwhelming, so don't be afraid to ask a question or two! If you're a cheese eater (not me), they have cheese boards here too. If you don't eat cheese, but are interested like me, they have a great beer-to-cheese pairing chart on their menu as well. I always find myself exploring something new when I come here and I don't mind that at all. Overall, come here to enjoy a drink or two, and maybe grab some cheese.
(5)Matthew N.
My partner and I road our bikes down from Ghent and tried out this trendy place. We sat inside because of their limited outdoor seating. The service was good and the beer was even better. However, I was disappointed when we tried the special cheese board. Portions are small. We've ordered a lot of cheese boards in our day. Their $15 cheese board will leave you wishing you had a little more to put on those 6 crackers. Value is where they really lost cool place points. We won't rush back.
(2)Cee B.
Ok... So initially, I gave The Birch a fairly negative review. After that review, I was kindly invited back, via private message, by the owner. We gave it a couple of weeks and decided to give it a go. So now, I'm sitting at the bar, having been swayed. Personally, I think getting a seat at the bar is key! Matt, the bartender has been extremely helpful and friendly. We had a much easier time making our beer selections and decided to even give the food a go! I started with a canned lager while my boyfriend ordered a porter. Nice start! Usually, we haggle over sharing foods but we easily decided on a share grilled cheese sandwich- the My Blueberry Nightmare and also ordered a 7 meat charcuterie plate. Awesome, across the board. FYI- go with the Spicy Plum Chutney! After a game of name the meat (they were all named yummy in my book), we decided on our second beers. My boyfriend enjoyed his porter so much, he opted for a second. I went with a super delish honeysuckle saison. Again, Matt was super informative, patient and friendly. I'm happy to say that I have no problem changing my review and will gladly return!
(5)Michael L.
Good selection of beers but everything is so over priced. It's a nice little trendy type of bar but just not worth the money. I mean c'mon, grilled cheese should never be that expensive. On a side note, the female that runs the place was really rude to a friend of mine. I believe the exact words were "why don't you take that gum out of your mouth and then maybe you can taste the beer". Then she promptly walked away with her nose in the air. Not impressed at all by that.
(2)Rachel C.
Loved this place. We did a little tour of Norfolk breweries (O'Connor and Smartmouth) and stopped here after. Cute building - bright green - and next door was a wood fired pizza place. You can order pizza from there while hanging out at the birch. Very neighborly. Beer selection was original, lots I hadn't heard of before and some that are more mainstream (founders, dogfish, etc). We didn't eat here but want to come back and have a cheese board. The service was also quick, helpful, and friendly.
(5)Trevor B.
This is one of the best places you can go for beer in the world, period. You probably won't know what 3/4 of the things on the tap list are, but there's never bad thing. The management does an incredible job sourcing great beers from around the world and the staff is fantastic and know their stuff. Possibly my favorite thing is the option for a half or full pour or each beer. This has spoiled me and now I'm always confused when other places don't offer this! I see people complain about food from time to time, but come on that's not why this place is here. You can't sell alcohol in many states without also selling a certain amount of food, get over it.
(5)Mike A.
I'm not a beer guy, but love trying new tastes and have been open to expanding my palate. I've now been twice with some friends that love themselves some brew. Atmosphere wise, this place has a good, warm vibe. A large bar with a decent amount of seating and large warehouse window-doors. There's a large board with their beers on tap and another sheet for some bottles. My friends were salivating like Pavlov's dog as they ogled the extensive beer lists. But only one beer from Japan? Would have been pleasantly surprised to see some truly off the wall imported beers (like Egypt...a Sakkara Gold would be interesting to try outside of Cairo) We ordered a beer that went with a cheese board, which is dreadfully overpriced for what you get. My beer (I don't even remember what it was) arrived pretty quickly, but I had almost finished it before the cheese board arrived 45 minutes later. Seriously? I know they were understaffed that night and the excuse was that the bar tender was filling growlers, so the lone waitress was nice but overworked. Regardless, I wasn't in the mood to spend any more of my money there, so nipped at the remnants of my beer while trying to savor my uber-pricey cheese. Our friends kept going with a few more rounds, and I did get to try some interesting craft beers that had some depth to them. But I found myself longing for a good wine bar as my palate appreciated but didn't really enjoy the beers. There are some expensive brews here, so you have to be careful before you find yourself treating $13 micro-serving of cerveza like a $1 long-neck. Not to reiterate Joe D's review, I pretty much agree with everything he posted in his March 2011 critique. The scene is good for small group (6-10) conversations because there was zero music.
(3)Heather P.
By far, hands down, the BEST place to quench your thirst for craft beer. Malia and staff are always helpful when picking out a new craft to try or to help a newbie find something different to enjoy from their traditional "sex in a canoe" type beers (aka Bud, Coors, Miller, etc). You can purchase many of their beers to-go from bottles to growlers and they offer discounts on growler re-fills as well as bottled beer & cheeses to-go as well. I have been going to The Birch since around the time they had opened and have been excited to see it grow to the powerhouse it is today. Though, I do say that half-heartedly since now on weekend nights and on the occasional weekday it is quite busy to the point of standing room only (which is quite good for them) - it still doesn't deter my husband and I from getting a drink and cheese board while there. They also make some killer grilled cheese sandwiches too. To anyone who is complaining about the prices, you're paying for high-quality craft/artisan beer and cheese. Perfect for the "snobs" and those looking to get away from the norm. They also do pair with the local breweries during their events, but they are more known for their choices of "non-locale" beers. We tell all our friends to check this place out and anyone who might be traveling that way as well. Also be sure to keep an eye on their Facebook and website for infomation when they hold their 43 Hours of _____ events. My favorites have been the 43 Hours of Dark and 43 Hours of America and my husband is a fan of their 43 Hours of Sour.
(5)Angie K.
If your favorite beers are along the suicidal line of Miller Light or Milwaukee's Best and you're looking for more of quantity then quality... This probably isn't the place for you BRO. For those Craft Beer lovers, this will be heaven on earth for you. The Birch Bar is hands down my favorite bar in Virginia. I can't help but love the ambiance of this place, so simple, laid back & always good background music. The employees know their beer, tell them what you're looking for and they can suggest an array of goodness for you to try. Never been steered wrong. Wine and cheese is dead and beer and cheese parings is where it's at, no matter that I'm lactose intolerant, I'll take a pill for the delicious carnival of cheeses they offer, many of them local. I don't know of any other bar like this in the area, it's unique, it's the type of place you'd find in a pocket of Denver or Seattle, which makes me feel right at home.
(5)marquita f.
I've died and gone to gastro-heaven. Specialty cheese and an excellent selection of craft beers can be found here. They have a phenomenal selection of delicious cheeses and grilled cheese sandwiches and the beer selection is first class. I am a huge fan of Saisons and Belgian Trippels which can be hard to find, the two they have on tap are first-class. Whoever chooses their beer really knows what they're doing. Service was fantastic, Eden took great care of the large semi-rowdy group I was with. If I lived in the area, I would be here every night. Love love love!
(5)Lynette E.
Wonderful spot. Knowledgeable staff. Awesome food pairings. You are missing out on a great experience if you do not check this place out.
(5)Brent R.
Craft beer heaven... No other words needed! BUT i'll add a few more anyway,...Very knowledgeable staff. Ben was our bartender, I think that was his name, and he was very pleasant, engaging and attentive. The beers,..well, they are superb. There are 15-20 or so on tap and a separate bottle menu. Growlers are also available for takeout. Very rare and unusal beers available and always served in appropriate glassware. Very relaxed atmoshpere, a place to go with some good friends to chill with a few tasty beverages. Menu is very limited so it's truly a beer bar with some snacks available. Did not get the popcorn but it smelled amizing,...next time.
(5)Brian S.
The atmosphere makes you feel like you stumbled into a secret club. The eclectic crowd was full of beer enthusiasts, and the wait staff was knowledgeable and attentive, if not stretched just a bit thin. The owner is incredibly gracious. There's not much more to say about the beers that's not already been said here - fantastic selection of beers I've not come across anywhere else. I loved the half pours, which let me try several brews. The creative grilled cheese menu might be reason enough to return several times, as it was hard to settle on just one. If they are all as pleasing as the Blueberry Nightmare, this place can sit back and rest knowing it does beer and cheese better than anyone else.
(4)Guinevere N.
Wonderful selection, attentive bartender who'll make informed recommendations depending on your tastes. This is the place to be if you like good beer without pretension or conceit. The food is an interesting plus and the interior is pleasant.
(5)Alondo M.
Such a huge fan of this place. It's got such an unassuming look, outside and inside, that is refreshing considering the look of some of the more pretentious spots in Downtown Norfolk. These people simply know what they excel at and blow you away with it. First off, this is NOT a restaurant in the sense of all other "bars" in Virginia that have an extensive list of culinary offerings that appeal to the deep-seated foodie. They offer just the right mix of light fare and cheeses to accompany a good brew. Second, if a person can't find a good beer, mead, or cider here, I would suggest that they move along to another activity, like watching rocks roll downhill. Their selection is 1) ever-changing, 2) eclectic, and 3) extremely varied. Like saisons? No problem. Into a dark and earthy IPA? Here you go. Want a 18% barleywine that will surprise you? They heard of one. Not a fan of bitter beer taste, but want to ease in with something light? They got something for you. Third, if you get the chance, chit-chat with the family that owns the place. Most down-to-earth people you will run into. I should probably make an effort to remember their names (which I am horrible at), but it doesn't make a difference because they are welcoming to everybody. Fourth, bring your growler. Skipping out on their ridiculous growler prices is a travesty. Don't have a growler? Buy one from here on the cheap and start loading up on a weekly basis. Why is this critical? Because when a good beer gets rotated in, you better snatch it up while it lasts! My only complain about the place is that it's not near my house.
(5)Erin J.
Amazing, eclectic beer menu. Good vibe. Update: sour beer heaven for you sour beer lovers. You know who are, don't be ashamed. I love any bar that will do half pours.
(5)Joe D.
I have a feeling my fellow Yelper's aren't going to like what I have to say about this place, but I have to call it like I see it. First things first. Do they have great beer here? Yes. Do they have great atmosphere? Yes. Is it all over the top. Absolutely. The Birch Bar is the latest hipster trendy place to arrive on the Norfolk scene. I'm not sure if that was by design or not, but that's what it's turned into. The beer selection is awesome and it's also way over priced even for downtown Norfolk. Food here is sparse. You can get a grilled cheese sandwich for $9.00 (cough) or one their cheese boards. They also have some little finger snacks like popcorn and beer nuts for $3.00 each and that's it for the menu. They play no music and I like this concept as it invokes conversation. However you wouldn't have been able to hear the music, or much less the person next to you, without screaming the night I visited. The beers are many and varied and the assortment is always changing. No matter your poison, the pint or goblet you order is going to run you on average about $8.00 per beer. We were definitely having trouble getting a waitress to serve us so we ended up getting our beers from the bar. I'm going to wait a bit and let the hype die down before my next visit. Personally I wish they were open on Sundays so you could experience the joint with a non nightlife environment. Maybe they'll do that next year by the time football season has started.
(2)Joe C.
Probably the best beer bar south of Richmond. Some of the reviews that aren't 5's kind of make me laugh...I guess if you aren't a beer lover, you wouldn't be as enthralled, as for the complaints about price....Yes there are some REALLY pricey beers here, but most of the drafts by the glass are reasonable. If you can't find something amazing and unique in a price range that you can deal with, you are being way too picky. The cheese and charcuterie boards are on the high end, but the items that they are serving are amazing quality. It's not really a place I would plan on going to eat, its clearly a beer lovers paradise, I wish I lived closer!
(5)Tiffany S.
I love The Birch. It's very simple and extremely satisfying. Wonderful beverages, though I may need a second job to afford some of my favorites. They are a little lacking on snacks, but it is forgivable when I can find Mead.
(4)Sagar N.
Probably the best craft beer bar in Hampton Roads. This place is really just designed to emphasize the beer and everything else comes second. That being said the cheese boards at this place are probably the best in the region! I wouldn't necessarily go there for dinner per se but they have decent snacks to complement the beer drinking experience. I never actually got any growlers there but they always has something interesting on tap. The ambience is pretty cool and I generally enjoy that little offshoot of Norfolk anyway. Definitely a must see if you're even somewhat into craft beer.
(4)Buddy G.
Its a beer bar. A really, really good beer bar. This is not the place to grab $1 PBR's and scream over some crappy band on a friday night. This is not a douchey town Center bar with $15 hamburgers. This is not another crappy sports bar that is overrunning Ghent. It is a beer bar, with fantastic beer and a knowledgable staff/owners. Yes you have to pay more for the stuff they serve, but it's worth more. Yes their menu is limited, but it's not a dinner place.
(5)Linnea W.
We love Birch Bar for the amaaaazing beer selection and the food is pretty yummy too. I like that the food and beer options are unusual - you will not find Amstel Light and wings at this place - to me this is a reason to go back! I can't tell you about the late night ambiance because I always seem to go at 5 pm when there are not many folks there yet. The wait staff is attentive and courteous - something I do not find many places in Norfolk. I think this is a great spot.
(5)Ashley B.
Really good craft selection but wish there was a couple of more mainstream beers to choose from. Also two beers -- 19$. Tacos from The Hubcap Grill parked out front -- 17$. Just sayin.
(3)Kaye W.
Came here yesterday!! Great beer selection. Yummy cheese and sausage. Lovely ambiance. Perfection :)
(5)Jeremy M.
The Birch is a great place for beer enthusiasts and/or people interested in trying different types of beer. Other people have siad this, but do not expect to get a Bud Light or Coors here... I am pretty passionate/obsessed with trying different types of beer, so the birch definitely fills that need. I don't go very often, but every time I do it's like being a kid in a candy store. I always read over there website 4-5 times before going and still have a hard time deciding between there great selection. The owners have a ton of beer knowledge and lover talking with their customers. It's a small little place, so don't be surprised if it is packed when you show up. The food menu isn't really all that, but they do have cool cheese/beer pairings. You can sign up for their email newsletter and they send out emails describing what they offer.
(5)James M.
GREAT beers, helpful and friendly bartenders always ready to make recommendations, SICK tunes. Hip without being hipster. It can be a bit expensive but I see this more as my personal problem than as their fault, as all the beers are craft and delicious, and many are of high alcohol content. Plus, they offer free beer education. Seriously, every time I come in I learn something interesting about a delicious beer which I've never had before my visit to the Birch. The only two things I would change -- more bar snacks on days when the Hubcap Grill isn't outside, and a better sound system for the great music that's always being played. Otherwise, this place rocks and I always thoroughly enjoy myself here.
(5)Brian A.
Finally made it back to visit The Birch this weekend. I had been anticipating the trip for quite some time because their odd hours. The place was crowded and their were only three people working. The waitress, that was working the tables by herself, did not even acknowledge our party of three when we came in. No Hello or anything! We went back to they bar and were stood there for at least 10 minutes and still were not served. The owner, who was tending bar didn't even say anything to us! The waitress did finally say something though, she told us to move because we were at her service area! After another few minutes and a couple of elbows from the waitress the man that was working the bar came around and got us some beer. The beer selection is great and there is ok place else in the area to find some of the stuff that is on tap there, but I will definitely spend my money elsewhere. I'll even drive the two hours to go to Mekong in Richmond before stepping foot in The Birch again!
(1)Dru M.
One of the best beer selections in the area. If you are so worried about the holier-than-thou atmosphere and hipster feel then you are over thinking your surroundings. The employees are more than helpful and are only there to help you feel more comfortable. Come here for the beer. Food comes second.
(5)J W.
Great place to get a beer you can't get anywhere else. The staff are all friendly and knowledgable and will happily recommend anything if you're unsure of what to get. They also have wonderful artisan cheeses available for beer and cheese pairings. I love this place and have found some new favorites.
(5)Jennifer E.
Still love the ambiance, still love the beer. Absolutely love getting eats a the Hubcap Grill parked out side. Yay for food trucks. Even better - randomly ran into my dear friend, Kevin, who stopped for a drink on his ride home from work.
(5)EJ T.
This is an amazing place for the true beer lover. It's considered pricey by people who don't understand why you would pay $6 or more for a beer. But I understand. Their selection and knowledge is amazing and ever changing. If you love trying different types of beer and breweries, go. If you only like Miller Lite or PBR, don't. Unless you want to change and join the fold. :)
(5)Chris O.
As a quick update, The Birch seems to have solved some of their food problem-- local food truck Hubcap Grill now parks out front, and the Birch encourages you to order from them and eat inside or on the patio. Delightful. Beer is still a little pricey, but they've also introduced $5 American drafts-- not a bad deal for some quality microbrews. Oh, and they honestly play some of the best music around.
(5)