This past spring while visiting friends in Kansas City, we stopped by Ruins Pub, a gastro-pub that had about 40 taps on the wall that you pour yourself. The concept was new to me and I loved it! I’m definitely a flight girl - I love trying as many different beers as I can when I visit somewhere new. This was like the ultimate flight builder. I could have as many two-ounce pours as I wanted! The visit was a ton of fun and I vowed to pay it another visit whenever I was in Kansas City.

Then, to my surprise and delight, shortly after that trip Union 32 was announced. Our very own self-serve beer bar in Minnesota. Minnesota was the 32nd state to join the union, hence the name Union 32. The bar also features 32 taps, all housing Minnesota beers. I love a good theme.

Over the week of Christmas, my boyfriend Mike and I made the trek out to the suburbs and finally paid Union 32 a visit. Located in Eagan, the gastropub also serves wine and food, plus there’s the option to order beer the “old-school” way, served to you from the bar. Sounds pretty boring if you ask me.

I was surprised by how large the space was. I was pleased with the selection - a robust lineup of different styles from a variety of breweries. Plus, they also brew their own beers on site. My strategy was to go down the line, trying a couple ounces of each one that caught my eye, and repeating some of my favorites. While I wish it wasn’t out in the ‘burbs, I would definitely recommend a trip to Union 32 when you can. And it turns out I won’t have to wait long for the concept to come to Minneapolis proper. First Draft Taproom and Kitchen is coming to North Loop this spring.