The new and improved Beer In Front is here!
This week, Dave introduces a refreshed format featuring new recurring segments, neighborhood tavern spotlights, classic beer advertising history, and, of course, plenty of great beer reviews.On This Episode

• A look at the new direction for the podcast and what's changing.
• Thanks to listeners for the overwhelming response to the recent Chicago tavern episodes.
• Updates on Ruby's recovery and Dave's elbow surgery.

Beers Reviewed North Coast Red Seal Ale. A longtime classic from California's North Coast Brewing returns to the glass. Dave revisits this West Coast favorite, highlighting its rich malt backbone, assertive hop bitterness, and timeless drinkability.
Firestone Walker x Ernie Ball – Electric Eagle IPA. A unique collaboration between Firestone Walker and legendary guitar string maker Ernie Ball. This limited-release West Coast IPA delivers bright citrus, tropical fruit, and classic hop character worthy of its rock-and-roll inspiration. Half Acre Double Daisy Cutter Evergreen. Chicago's Half Acre puts a double IPA twist on one of its most beloved beers. Dave breaks down the balance of malt sweetness, pine, citrus, and tropical hop flavors in this standout seasonal release.
Classic Beer Ad Spotlight. Remember the line..."Here's to good friends..." Dave takes a nostalgic trip back to the legendary Löwenbräu commercials of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Learn the fascinating story behind one of beer advertising's most memorable jingles, how Arthur Prysock became the voice of a generation, and why the commercial ultimately became more famous than the beer itself.
Tavern of the Week Trinity Pub – Norwood Park, Chicago Dave visits one of Chicago's neighborhood gems, highlighting its welcoming atmosphere, full kitchen, darts, sports sponsorships, and outstanding smash burgers. It's exactly the kind of community tavern that keeps neighborhood bar culture alive.Know a great tavern that deserves some attention? Reach out through Beer In Front—you might hear your favorite bar featured on a future episode.
Beer TalknOktoberfest beers are already hitting store shelves...in July.Dave discusses the ever-earlier arrival of seasonal beers, whether it's too soon to crack an Oktoberfest, and why he still can't resist grabbing a few for research.
Featured Topics

• New Beer In Front format
• Neighborhood taverns
• Classic beer advertising
• North Coast Brewing
• Firestone Walker
• Ernie Ball collaboration
• Half Acre Brewing
• Löwenbräu history
• Oktoberfest season
• Chicago beer scene

If you enjoyed the show, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, leave a rating or review, and tell a fellow beer lover about Beer In Front. Cheers!

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Beer Media Group

Beer In Front Podcast – Episode Show Notes

Last Call for the Neighborhood Tavern (Part 2) with Dave Infante

Neighborhood taverns have long been more than places to grab a beer—they've served as gathering spots, community centers, and the heart of countless neighborhoods. But are they becoming an endangered institution? In Part 2 of this special conversation, Dave Zalatoris sits down with award-winning journalist, VinePair contributing editor, and Fingers newsletter creator Dave Infante for a wide-ranging discussion about the current state and future of America's neighborhood taverns.The conversation explores why traditional corner bars are struggling while experience-driven venues continue to thrive, how changing drinking habits and GLP-1 medications may reshape the hospitality industry, and why preserving independent taverns may be as important to our communities as preserving libraries or parks.Dave also dives into the history of tied houses, immigrant saloons, Milwaukee's legendary beer culture, and the changing business of beer, from family-owned breweries to multinational corporations.Whether you're a beer lover, tavern regular, or simply appreciate the importance of local gathering places, this episode offers an insightful look at what's at stake.

In This Episode

• Why neighborhood taverns are facing unprecedented challenges
• The rise of "experience" bars versus traditional corner taverns
• How GLP-1 medications could permanently change alcohol sales
• The role taverns played in immigrant communities and American history
• Chicago and Milwaukee's unique tavern traditions
• The evolution from family-owned breweries to global corporations
• Why Dave Infante believes neighborhood bars should be treated as a public good
• His favorite tavern to visit—and what he's ordering when he gets there

Dave Infante is an award-winning journalist covering the business of beer, alcohol, and hospitality. He is a contributing editor at VinePair and publishes the acclaimed independent newsletter Fingers, where he examines the economics, policy, and people shaping the beverage industry.

Follow Beer In FrontIf you enjoyed this episode:

• Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
• Leave a rating and review.
• Share this episode with your favorite neighborhood tavern regular.
• Follow Beer In Front on YouTube and social media for more conversations about beer, bars, breweries, and the stories behind every pint.

Because every beer has a story... and sometimes, the beer in front of you is the best one yet.

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Beer Media Group

Episode 313: The Last Call for America's Neighborhood Tavern

What happened to the neighborhood tavern? Once the heart of nearly every American neighborhood, the corner bar was more than just a place to grab a beer. It was a hiring hall, a union meeting place, a community center, a second living room, and sometimes the place where lifelong friendships, and lifelong arguments began. In this episode of Beer In Front, Dave Zalatoris explores the remarkable history of the American tavern, with a special focus on Chicago, a city that once boasted more than 8,000 saloons. From colonial taverns and frontier saloons to Prohibition speakeasies, neighborhood bars, and today's dive bars, this episode traces how these gathering places helped shape communities—and why so many have disappeared. You'll hear stories about legendary Chicago institutions including the Green Mill, Green Door Tavern, Twin Anchors, Marge's Still, and the Billy Goat Tavern, while examining the economic, cultural, and social changes that have transformed America's drinking culture. Is the neighborhood tavern disappearing forever, or is a new generation beginning to rediscover what made these places special? Pull up a stool and join the conversation. In this episode:

• The origins of the American tavern
• Why Chicago once had over 8,000 saloons
• How Prohibition changed drinking forever
• Al Capone and Chicago's speakeasy culture
• Historic taverns that still stand today
• The decline of the neighborhood bar
• Craft beer's impact on traditional taverns
• COVID-19's effect on bars and taverns
• Why younger generations are drinking differently
• The importance of "third places" in American communities
• Can the neighborhood tavern make a comeback?

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone you'd love to meet at your favorite neighborhood tavern. Cheers!

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Beer Media Group

Beer In Front Podcast – Tang: The Drink That Rode the Space Race

Everyone knows Tang was "the drink of the astronauts"...except that's not actually how the story began.This week, Beer In Front takes a detour from beer to explore one of the greatest marketing success stories of the 20th century. Long before astronauts carried it into orbit, Tang was a struggling powdered breakfast drink sitting on grocery store shelves. A timely connection to NASA, a little help from the Space Race, and some brilliant marketing transformed it into a household name.In this episode you'll learn:

• Why Tang was originally created by General Foods—not NASA
• The food scientist behind Tang, Cool Whip, Pop Rocks, and more
• How John Glenn's historic Mercury mission changed the brand forever
• Why astronauts actually used Tang in space
• The surprising truth behind one of America's most enduring food myths
• How Tang became an international success long after its popularity faded in the United States
• And, of course...does Tang still taste good today?

To wrap things up, I mix up a glass of the original orange Tang and find out whether this iconic drink still holds up after all these years.If you enjoy stories about food, drinks, advertising, and the fascinating history behind everyday products, this episode is for you.Thanks for listening, and we'll be back next week with a regular Beer In Front episode!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.

Beer Media Group

Beer In Front – Episode 310 Show Notes

This week on Beer In Front, we're mixing things up with a conversation that isn't about beer...at least not at first. Dave welcomes Nicole Bentler, founder of Pocono Mountain Farms, to talk about one of the beverage world's most intriguing newcomers: maple water. Nicole explains how this naturally hydrating drink is harvested straight from maple trees before it becomes syrup, why athletes and health-conscious consumers are embracing it, and what it's like running a 450-acre certified organic maple farm in Pennsylvania. From sustainability and fireflies to bourbon pairings and recovery drinks, it's a fascinating look at a product you may not have considered before.Of course, there are plenty of beer discussions as well, including:

• Pollyanna Brewing's expansion into Chicago and the return of several Alarmist Brewing favorites.
• Maui Brewing's first non-alcoholic beer, Maui Lite.
• Firestone Walker and Toppling Goliath teaming up on a collaborative West Coast Double IPA.
• A preview of Goose Island's 2026 Bourbon County Apple Crisp variant.
• New Belgium collaborations featuring peach bellini and tropical-inspired summer beers.

Beer ReviewsBKS Artisan Ales – Counterculture IPA (Kansas City, MO)
A flavorful hazy IPA with bright fruit character, a creamy mouthfeel, and excellent balance. A standout beer from one of Kansas City's top breweries.

Revolution Brewing – Supermassive Café Deth
A bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout infused with Dark Matter Coffee that delivers rich coffee, bourbon, chocolate, and creamy sweetness in every sip. Another exceptional release from Revolution's celebrated Deep Wood Series.

Whether you're curious about innovative beverages, looking for new beers to hunt down, or just want another entertaining conversation from the world of craft beer and beyond, Episode 310 has something for everyone.Grab a beer...or maybe a maple water...and enjoy the show!

Pocono Maple Water

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Chicago Brewing History of the 1990s with Andrew Mason

Chicago's craft beer scene didn't happen overnight.This week, Dave sits down with longtime brewer Andrew Mason to discuss his new Kickstarter project, Chicago Brewing History: The '90s, an ambitious documentary series preserving the stories, people, and breweries that built Chicago's modern beer culture. Andrew shares his own journey through breweries including Flossmoor Station, Mickey Finn's, Three Floyds, Solemn Oath, and beyond before explaining why now is the time to capture the memories of the pioneers who shaped one of America's greatest beer cities.They discuss:

• Why the 1990s were the defining decade for Chicago craft beer
• Goose Island, Three Floyds, Real Ale Fest, and other influential breweries and institutions
• The brewers whose stories deserve to be preserved
• How Chicago's neighborhood tavern culture helped shape today's beer scene
• The challenges facing modern breweries—and why local taprooms remain so important
• Why documenting brewing history matters before these stories disappear

Andrew also explains how listeners can support the Kickstarter campaign and help bring this project to life.
After the interview, Dave cracks open a classic Three Floyds Zombie Dust Pale Ale and reflects on the beer's legendary status—from the days when it was nearly impossible to find to becoming one of the Midwest's defining craft beers.Dave also gives a recovery update following elbow surgery, previews upcoming episodes on Pocono Maple Water, Tang, and the history of Chicago taverns, and asks listeners to send along future show ideas while he's recovering.
Featured Beer🍺 Three Floyds Zombie Dust Pale Ale
Learn MoreSupport Andrew Mason's Chicago Brewing History: The '90s Kickstarter project through the links in this episode's description.

Have an episode idea or guest suggestion? [email protected] Follow Beer In Front on social media for new episodes, beer reviews, interviews, and everything happening in the craft beer world.If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow beer lover. It helps more people discover independent beer podcasts.Cheers!

Chicago Beer History

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Beer Media Group

Beer In Front – Episode 309
Homebrew Con Returns, Riverbend Malt & The Brew Depot

Homebrew Con is back, and this week I'm talking with two people who are helping shape the future of homebrewing.After a quick update on my recent elbow surgery (and an apology to anyone I may have unintentionally offended while under anesthesia), I share a few stories from the beer world before diving into conversations from Homebrew Con in Asheville, North Carolina.
First, I talk with Tina Hoffert of Riverbend Malt House about the growing craft malt movement, why locally sourced malt matters, and how malt contributes far more than just fermentable sugars. We also recap Homebrew Con, discuss regional ingredients, and explore how Riverbend is connecting farmers, maltsters, brewers, and homebrewers.
Then I'm joined by Joshua Lord, owner of The Brew Depot in Georgia. Joshua shares his journey from homebrewer to homebrew shop owner, discusses why local homebrew shops remain vital to the brewing community, and explains how craft malt is changing the way homebrewers think about ingredients. We also recap Homebrew Con and talk about why the future of homebrewing looks brighter than many people realize.Also in this episode:

• Recovery update after elbow surgery
• Great American Beer Festival ticket news
• Three Floyds and Binny's collaboration: The Morrigan
• Four Roses Experimental Series finished in Mizunara oak
• Pipeworks introduces a non-alcoholic Lizard King Pale Ale
• National Homebrew Competition highlights
• Beer In Front Beer Review: Classic Fat Tire Amber Ale returns

Whether you're an experienced homebrewer, a craft beer fan, or simply curious about what goes into making great beer, this episode celebrates the people and ingredients that keep craft brewing moving forward.Featured Guests

• Tina Hoffert – Riverbend Malt House
• Joshua Lord – The Brew Depot

Beer Reviewed🍺 New Belgium Classic Fat Tire Amber AleIf you enjoy the show, please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and share the episode with the beer lovers in your life.Put it in the cart!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.

Beer Media Group

This week, Dave chats with Kim Vavrick from Revolution Brewing about everything happening this summer at Chicago's largest independent brewery. First up is Fundraiser Friday on June 26th, benefiting the Brave Space Alliance. Kim explains how the program works, why supporting local organizations is important to Revolution, and how beer lovers can help simply by enjoying a draft beer. The conversation also covers:

• Fundraiser Fridays and upcoming partnerships
• Community-focused events like Physical Media Night and the International Language Café
• The new Cold Time Mix Pack
• The success of Ante Zero, Revolution's non-alcoholic version of Anti-Hero IPA
• Deep Wood Series Season Tickets and what barrel-aged beer fans can expect in 2026
• Collaborations with Dark Matter Coffee, Private Press, and More Brewing
• Summer beer releases, Oktoberfest plans, and World Cup watch parties at the taproom
• How Revolution continues to strengthen its connection to Chicago through community involvement, partnerships, and great beer

Featured Beers Dave samples all four beers in the new Cold Time Mix Pack:
🍺 Cold Time Premium Lager
🍺 Cold Time Amber Lager
🍺 Cold Time Extra Export Lager
🍺 Cold Time Dry Crisp Rice Lager

Check Out Million Podcasts for more top beer related shows! 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beer-in-front--5704447/support.

Beer Media Group

What happens when millions of people simply stop wanting that second beer? In this episode of Beer In Front, I take a deep dive into the rapidly growing world of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound—and explore how these drugs are reshaping the food and beverage industry. While most coverage focuses on weight loss, the bigger story may be changing consumer behavior. Research suggests GLP-1 medications don't just reduce appetite, they may also reduce cravings for alcohol, snacks, and other highly rewarding foods by affecting the brain's dopamine reward system. 

• Why GLP-1 users are drinking significantly less alcohol
• New research showing dramatic reductions in alcohol cravings
• How wine, beer, and spirits are being affected differently
• Why bars and restaurants are seeing smaller checks and fewer repeat drink orders
• The projected $30-$55 billion impact on the food and beverage industry
• How grocery shopping habits are changing
• The opportunities for premium alcohol, craft beverages, and non-alcoholic alternatives
• Why GLP-1 medications could become an important tool in treating alcohol use disorder
• What breweries, bars, restaurants, and food companies need to do to adapt

As adoption continues to grow and new oral versions of these medications reach the market, the effects on consumer spending and consumption habits may only accelerate.Whether you're in the beer business, restaurant industry, food manufacturing, or simply curious about how emerging health trends shape the economy, this episode explores one of the most important consumer shifts happening today.

Statistic Sources
1 in 8 U.S. adults currently on a GLP-1 drug KFF Health Tracking Poll, Nov 2025
Up to 75% potential reduction in alcohol consumption Morgan Stanley 
25% of GLP-1 users stopped drinking entirely Morgan Stanley
41% reduction in daily drinking (clinical trial) JAMA Psychiatry
2025 Wine down 52%, beer 43%, spirits 40% EY-Parthenon Survey
10% of adults = 50% of all alcohol sold U.S. alcohol consumption data
$30–55B projected F&B revenue loss by 2030–34 J.P. Morgan
Feb 2026 23% of households contain a GLP-1 user CNBC / industry data
2026 Dinner traffic down 6% among regular users Restaurant industry analysis, 2026

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Beer Media Group

This week on Beer In Front, I sit down with Israel Dominguez, President of Merican Light Beer, to talk about building a modern lager brand with old-school appeal. After nearly a decade at Anheuser-Busch, Israel took what he learned from one of the biggest beer companies in the world and launched a brand focused on authenticity, community, and a simple mission: make a great American light lager.

In This Episode:

• Israel's journey from Anheuser-Busch executive to beer entrepreneur
• The inspiration behind Merican Light Beer
• Why nostalgia, familiarity, and Americana are central to the brand
• How Merican grew rapidly through community-focused marketing
• The challenges of building a beer brand in today's crowded lager market
• Expansion into North Carolina and Tennessee and plans for future growth
• Merican's commitment to supporting veterans, family farming, clean water initiatives, outdoor recreation, and youth sports
• Why light lagers continue to be one of the strongest segments in beer today

Beer Review: I get my hands on a can of Merican Light Beer and puts it to the test. The verdict? A crisp, crushable lager with subtle notes of wood and apple that make it stand out from the crowd. It's  a perfect summer beer and could become a future fridge staple once it reaches Chicago.

Also On The Show

• Birthday weekend recap at Old Irving Brewing
• An update on the upcoming elbow surgery and recovery plans
• A preview of next week's special solo episode examining how GLP-1 medications are changing alcohol consumption and impacting the food and beverage industries.

Learn More Visit the official Merican Light Beer website:  Merican

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Beer Media Group

Dave is back with a Memorial Day weekend episode featuring beer news, craft beer chatter, and a wild conversation with Devon Douglas, the man attempting to convince Jason Kelce to run with the bulls in Pamplona by drinking a Garage Beer every single day until the event. Dave also checks in with updates on his elbow recovery, birthday week plans, and dives into some of the latest stories from around the beer world.

Kelce To Pamplona

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Beer Media Group