Patios, sunshine and a refreshing brew: an Alberta staple.
As the weather warms and thirsts grow, Rocky View Brewing Company in Cochrane is setting tails a-wagging with a delightful twist on the typical patio season.
Not only has this family-owned brewery been a beacon for craft beer lovers since its inception in 2016, but thanks to its new dog-friendly menu, it’s now becoming a downtown Cochrane hotspot for dogs and their humans alike.
Established by Lyle and Denean Thorsen, Rocky View initially captivated locals with its range of flagship Blonde, Amber, and IPA ales. Their beer line has now grown to include German-style pilsner, Belgian Witbier, Brown Ale, and a seasonal Adventure Series of brews.
As the new brew recipes flowed, so did their creativity, eventually leading them to the idea of the pooch patio and doggie menu.
The idea, conceived by executive chef Darryl Berntsen, came from his desire to welcome dogs not just to lounge on the patio but to enjoy a meal of their own.
“The idea sprung in my head, so why not launch a dog patio menu?” Berntsen shared, emphasizing his careful recipe formulation to accommodate canine diets safely.
A Drool-Worthy Lineup
The menu for doggies is a drool-worthy lineup, including chicken and beef livers mixed with rice and veggies, all prepared without harmful spices or frying methods.
But the star attraction might just be the ‘dog sundaes’ and bacon and cheddar ice cream made with goat’s milk, offering a cool reprieve for furry friends under the summer sun.
For parched pups, there’s ‘Canine Pale Ale’ called ‘Fetch’—a bone broth-based brew served in dog bowls since “the dog’s tongue can’t reach the bottom of a glass,” as Berntsen humorously notes.
Rocky View Brewing isn’t just about innovative canine cuisine; it’s a community hub.
“This [patio] is dog-friendly and generally always busy with pups and people, and the chef always comes out and brings treats to the puppies,” Denean Thorsen said. “He makes his own in-house bacon, and every dog that comes to the patio gets a strip of his bacon.”
The taproom’s commitment to inclusivity extends to its brewing philosophy as well.
With no additives or preservatives and a nod to Denean’s Cree heritage, the beers often incorporate Indigenous ingredients, making each pint a story of local culture and craftsmanship.
The brewery’s generosity also spills into local causes, with events like the Pooch Patio Party on June 29. Proceeds from the event will support the Cochrane Humane Society.
It’s a cause close to the community’s heart, ensuring that every wag and woof translates into support for less fortunate animals.
So, if you’re looking for a place where you can sip a meticulously crafted IPA while your best four-legged friend laps up a ‘puppy pint,’ Rocky View Brewing Company is your go-to spot.
Here, every member of the family, on two legs or four, can find something to savour.
