Middle James Brewing brings new life and beer to a south Charlotte suburb

Have you been to Middle James Brewing? This addition to the Charlotte craft beer scene is exciting beer fans in the area.

As Charlotte’s thirst for craft beer continues to grow, another entrant slings the hops and suds so many have come to crave. Pineville, NC, just beyond the southern terminus of Charlotte’s Lynx Blue Line light rail, is now home to Middle James Brewing.

Beer culture is growing exponentially in a town mostly known as the birthplace of President James K. Polk and its ubiquitous large shopping centers, as Middle James joins the cozy beer bars Kit’s Trackside Crafts and Pintville.

The brewery is adjacent to a driving range and filled with televisions broadcasting every type of sport imaginable. It’s a nice departure from the normal startup craft brewery aesthetic with its shiny, spacious, open taproom. While comparisons to the Top Golf concept may come to mind, this is a place with a far more relaxed local flair.

Down to the nitty gritty, the brewery has 8 beers on tap and 2 ciders at opening. The Holy Bananas Hefeweizen was smooth and refreshing and a good representation of the style.

As a hop head, I preferred the very crisp Hour Mark IPA (7% ABV) over the Highly Dramatic V.1 New England Style IPA (6.8% ABV). The bartender said to be on the lookout for more diverse beer, including sours, as the brewery finds its footing.

The great beer was just the prelude to what should become very sought after eats; the menu is bar food on steroids. The Pulled Duck Totchos and MJB Poutine were very hard to resist, as I was lured further down the menu by the Beef Krunch Wrap. The massive slow tortilla stuffed with slow braised beef, fried potatoes, cheddar cheese, tortilla crisps, slaw and a delightful spicy ketchup was a show stopper.

Taking inspiration from its fast food counterpart, this filling, comfort food will definitely bring me back to Middle James. Taking full ownership of its place in the suburbs, the kid’s menu and kid friendly attitude is very much appreciated by this parent.

Pineville’s first brewery is off to a wonderful start!

Have you been to Middle James Brewing? Which craft beer quenched your thirst?