On our way back from the Olympic Peninsula, there was no doubt we would be having a meal at the La Conner Brewing Company. The only question was whether it would be lunch, dinner, or something in between.

First, I do not drink beer. Second, I view the La Conner Brewing Company as a worthy destination in and of itself. Third, their stinky IPA is my boyfriend’s favorite beer in the universe, so we take any opportunity to go there.

It is a clean and cozy restaurant in the heart of La Conner. There is a fireplace inside and deck seating in the back to take advantage of all seasons. Like the Calico Cupboard, parking is at a premium, but we found a space right in front of the restaurant – of course, it was Tuesday afternoon off-season. As soon as we sat down and before looking at the menu, Mike orders an IPA and I order root beer. They have seven beers on tap (the IPA and the Pilsner are the most popular) and a small selection of wines and ciders. I love their root beer, but it is an adjustment if you are used to only drinking Henry Weinhard’s or Thomas Kemper.

The menu is very limited, but I think they have everything you could possibly want if you’re dining in a microbrewery. They have several appetizers that are great for sharing, a handful of soups and salads, and a large selection of sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas. Although I know I have enjoyed one of their sandwiches and their chicken quesadilla, I can’t remember when I haven’t ordered their margherita pizza, because it is my favorite thing on the menu. The pizzas are 7-inch personal pizzas, so consider ordering a few and sharing. Be prepared to order off the menu, and they do not easily accommodate special diets.

Service is friendly and efficient. However, expect to have a leisurely meal if it’s crowded because the kitchen is tiny (most of which you can see around the wood-fired oven.) All in all, it’s a rewarding experience, especially if you are walking out with a six-pack of your favorite brew.