Not to sound like an asshole, but there aren’t a lot of things that will draw me to Surrey. It’s not just that I’m a Vancouver snob, or that I once had a traumatizing experience getting lost there. Other than the magic going-ons at Mirage, I haven’t heard a lot about the best things to do in Surrey. I think it’s because I’ve never had the proper guide to show me the ropes, or the goodies that only a local would know. But after hitting up Central City Brewing, I’m itching to get more familiar with the fastest growing city in the lower mainland.

I knew of Central City Brewing before my visit for two reasons. A friend of mine recently accepted a position as their sous chef. Even before that, I’d heard of their award-winning brewing skills. Fortunately, their micro brew is available in most liquor stores, so you don’t have to transit all the way to Surrey every time you crave it. I’d tried a few varieties, and I was stoked to get a look at where it’s all created.

The beer was excellent, as was expected. I tried the Raspberry Wheat Ale and Nitrogen Stout. The Raspberry had a definite fruit flavour, but didn’t taste like a sweet, syrupy mess. It was tart and surprisingly full for a wheat ale. The Stout was also delicious. I love a good dark beer, and this one was no exception. Totally smooth and bold, I could have drank it all night. Both are only available in the restaurant, so you’ll have to venture out to give them a try.

Central City prominently features their beer in their menu, adding something unique to classic pub fare. They’re pretty creative with their beer, and it seems to be working in their favour. There’s stout cheddar in cheese sticks, pizzas, and burgers; mussels with wheat ale; stout bbq sauce on their gorgeous, wood oven baked pizzas; beer cured bacon; and, of course, the desserts. The stout brownie alone is worth a trip out to Surrey.

Central City is also home to live music and other, food-related events. They just finished up a month of beer pairings, including beer and cheese or beer and chocolate.

Sometimes the best finds are off your radar. Get over your Surrey fear and add this brew pub to your repertoire.

By Meghan Roberts