Urban Growler Brewing Company holds a monumental place in the Twin Cities craft beverage landscape as Minnesota’s first openly women-owned and queer-owned microbrewery. Founded in 2014 by co-founders Deb Loch and Jill Pavlak, this pioneering establishment was built on a simple yet powerful mission: to craft exceptional beer and create an uncommonly inclusive community space where “all are welcome.” Tucked away on Endicott Street in St. Paul’s vibrant, artistic Creative Enterprise Zone—right at the midpoint between downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul—Urban Growler has grown from a bold independent dream into a landmark destination for craft beer purists, casual diners, neighborhood families, and four-legged companions. The physical home of Urban Growler is an expertly reimagined piece of Minnesota history. The brewery and taproom are housed inside a sprawling, 100-year-old brick-and-timber industrial building that once served as a horse stable for the city. Inside, the architecture beautifully marries historic ruggedness with warm, communal comfort. Guests are greeted by massive exposed timber pillars, original brick walls, high ceilings, and an open layout that buzzes with social energy. The interior space features traditional low booths, conversational high-tops, and an expansive main bar. Beyond the indoor walls lies one of the crown jewels of the Twin Cities summer scene: an expansive, fenced-in brick beer garden. This outdoor courtyard is exceptionally lively, social, and energetic, functioning as a sun-drenched sanctuary where guests can relax under patio umbrellas while well-behaved, leashed dogs lounge by their sides.
Culinarily, Urban Growler breaks the mold of traditional, beer-focused taprooms by running a full, scratch-made kitchen that serves elevated Midwestern comfort and pub fare. The kitchen emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes that pair beautifully with the tap list. Guest favorites include their legendary beer-battered fish and chips, savory carnitas tacos, and giant, soft Bavarian pretzels served with house-made warm beer cheese sauce. The burger and sandwich lineup features everything from juicy, locally sourced beef smash patties to robust, house-smoked pulled pork sandwiches. Furthermore, the kitchen is highly intentional regarding dietary flexibilities, offering a wealth of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free adaptations—including house-made black bean veggie patties and gluten-free buns—ensuring that every member of a large group can dine securely. The beverage program is anchored by Master Brewer Deb Loch’s meticulous, highly balanced approach to brewing. Urban Growler’s taps are famous for their versatility, offering approachable mainstays alongside adventurous, rotating releases. Flagship favorites like the smooth Cowbell Cream Ale® and the crisp, citrusy Crossroads IPA sit alongside unique creations like the Vanilla Latte Blonde Ale—brewed with light espresso beans from St. Paul’s True Stone Coffee Roasters—and the spicy, jalapeño-infused Hot Blonde Ale. To cater to all palates, the brewery also crafts its own line of hard seltzers, double seltzer cocktails, and refreshing “Urban Glow” non-alcoholic mocktails. Beyond the food and drink, Urban Growler shines as a cultural anchor for the St. Paul community. The venue regularly hosts live musical performances, trivia nights, seasonal holiday markets, and their signature “GLOW” Pride dance events. Whether you are stopping by for their famous Friday Fish Fry, hosting an exceptional private wedding in their historic Hayloft room, or spending a lazy Sunday afternoon drinking craft beer in the sun, Urban Growler delivers a masterclass in community-centric hospitality.
