Inside Toronto's stunning new Big Rock brewhouse

Jan 26 2017, 12:11 am

Big Rock Brewery has landed in Liberty Village.

First founded in Alberta in 1985, the premium, all-natural craft beer-makers have opened satellite breweries in Vancouver and Etobicoke in recent years, and are now joined by this new brewhouse in Toronto’s west-end.

Unlike the production facility on The Queensway, this urban brewpub offers an all-in-one destination for drinking and dining that celebrates quality food and craft beer in a vibrant heritage space.

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Helmed by O&B Corporate Executive Chef Anthony Walsh, District Executive Chef John Horne (Canoe, Auberge du Pommier), and newly appointed Chef de Cuisine Ryan Lister (formerly of Canoe), Liberty Commons at Big Rock Brewery is a spirited collaboration that supplies snacks like smoked meats and Scotch eggs to the tap room upstairs while the beer-friendly menu in the main dining room draws inspiration from European beer halls with modern British pub influences.

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The brewing program at Liberty Commons is overseen by Big Rock Brewmaster Connor K. Patrick and brewer Dan Ellis.

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When we catch up with Ellis on a recent visit he’s tending to the brew kettles alone in the basement, but once the patio is open the brewery operations, walled in by floor to ceiling windows, will be on display to diners seated at the tables outside.

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Upstairs in the tap room, two long communal tables add to the convivial beer hall vibe. The architects behind the space kept many of the building’s original brick and wood beam features.

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The building itself is one of the earlier industrial buildings within the area dating back to the late 19th century. Originally, it was home to St. David’s Wine Growers and was later used as a warehouse for Eaton’s before being converted into offices for Artscape in the ‘90s.

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Now, the tap room houses a wall of merch and a fridge full of six-packs and tall cans for sale. Beer drinkers can also purchase growlers filled from the ultra-fresh selection on tap for take-home.

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Those unfamiliar with the Big Rock offerings can get acquainted with sample pours from the signature beers as well as select seasonal offerings and specialty brews like the barrel aged series.

liberty commons big rock

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Look forward to standouts like sweet, hoppy, Honey Brown Lager and the soft malty Czech-style Pilsner (to name just a few).

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Big Rock Brewery Beer Shop at Liberty Commons

Address: 42 Liberty Street, Toronto, open for fresh, locally brewed craft beer and small bites 11am – 11pm, 7 days a week. For reservations to Liberty Commons brewpub, serving lunch, dinner and drinks 7 days a week
Instagram: @bigrockbrewery and @libertycommons

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