Two Heads are Better Than One

Reviving something means fixing foundations, making improvements, and breathing new life into it. Great Revivalist Brew Lab in the small midwest town of Geneseo, Illinois, is living up to its lengthy name. They are reviving the idea of pizza and beer in two businesses that had lost hope for numerous reasons - Lionstone Brewing and Great River Brewing. This transition began as a hopeful, optimistic journey that would bring fortune to many people.

With new ownership in March of 2019, however, also came Covid-19. This not only brought the challenges of normal state and national regulations, but also added numerous Covid restrictions and indoor shut-downs. Despite this, the brewery continued to produce beer and soda, as well as run a successful curbside pick-up business.

They added on an outdoor patio and made plans to construct a deck behind the building. The dog-friendly patio is surrounded by the hops plant used to brew the craft beer within the brewery. In the summer when the plants grow up, the patio becomes a intimate, unique dining area. Accented by personalized graffiti, painted paw prints, an herb garden, and various vintage brewing equipment, the "dog patio" has already become a favorite of many local families.

Although the construction of two other Great Revivalist locations came to a standstill due to Covid and city restrictions, the Brew Lab continued to find creative ways to revive drink and dining experiences for the community during this trying time. Known for craft beer and woodfire pizza, the Great Revivalist Brew Lab is thinking beyond their norm by adding on heated, outdoor deck seating. The six "Hop Huts" and grain silo that this comprises of are cute and homey, with personalized fireplaces, fancy tables and rugs, and propane heaters for those extremely cold Midwest winter nights. In the summer, panels will be taken out and replaced with hops plants to provide comfortable privacy.

The next project on the agenda includes adding igloos over picnic tables on the "dog patio."

The Brew Lab has also revived the idea of pizza and a beer, with a twist, literally. While enjoying the "Hop Huts," pair the Dirty Blonde chocolate ale with "The Beason," our homemade, mouthwatering garlic twist. Once you order "The Beason," you'll see the pizza guy begin a flurry of activity. He first cuts the dough, then adds cheese, then presses the dough, then twists and flips it like the animal balloon guy at a birthday party until it settles on the pizza pan like a brain puzzle. He adds a dish of mozzaralla and goat cheese, then slides the whole pan into the bronze and copper-covered, woodfire oven with gusto. When it is a nice golden brown, it is perfect to come out and serve. While you're waiting to taste the warm cheese melt out of the soft, garlic-flavored dough, you look at the tap list and wonder how you'll ever decide!

The name "Dirty Blonde" catches your eye, as it is towards the top of the list and certainly an interesting title for a beer. As the golden colored ale is poured, the chance that there is chocolate in there seems slim. However, when you take your first sip, your lips are given a chocolaty kiss. The cool brew sliding down your throat is refreshing, light, sweet, yet with a touch of that beer flavor. If you're not normally a beer drinker, this one's for you. If you're normally a beer drinker, this one's for you. If you're over 21 and never tried a beer, this one's for you! But don't take my word for it - try one or more of our 24 other guest taps to be sure you've found the best pairing for you!