-By Bill Ward-
The idea to start a farm brewery in an abandoned, well, farm, is not a new one. If their lucky, though, the entrepreneurs’ vison will align with the chosen area desire, need or niche.
Such was indeed the case with Big Inlet Brewing (BIB). Randy and Brent Henderson’s simple goal was to provide Mayville a spot with great beer, a quaint farm atmosphere, and live music. The response to the uncle and nephew duo’s dream was immediate and enthusiastic. Using NYS and locally grown/produced ingredients, Big Inlet Brewing produces small batch, handcrafted beers which have quickly gained reputation among connoisseurs. Besides that, what stands out about Big Inlet for music lovers is that it is uniquely suited for a wide variety of live entertainment.
Boasting an outside stage in their spacious Bier Garten and an intimate yet versatile space for music in the taproom, BIB has become one of the premier year-round entertainment venues in the county.
Walking into the taproom, visitors will encounter a comfortable, inviting space with original repurposed barn wood construction and decor. Adorning the rounded ceiling/walls are various artifacts reflecting the history of the place and area as well as some charming memorabilia from customers and musicians who have played there. Even the hayloft has been converted to a charming gathering place with board games and comfy seating.
Outside, the sprawling lawn leading up to the stage is stocked with ample seating, whether it be picnic tables, regular tables and chairs, or (winter-friendly) Amish sheds surrounding the perimeter. During the summer there are also two very large tents at the far end of the venue. Also, when the pandemic kept many folks in their own homes and dashed scheduling and touring plans of most musicians, BIB let the way in creating a safe gathering place, utilizing their vast outside space.
The musicians who have been drawn to the place because of its reputation for
ample facility and enthusiastic audiences very greatly in genre and notoriety, and their performances always reflect their appreciation for those things. The attendees have found a comfortable, family and dog-friendly space with plenty of room for wandering, and peripheral outdoor games and relaxation.
The entertainment lineup through the years is a virtual who’s who of regional performers and big Inlet has even played host to the return of the Mayville Bluegrass Festival in 2019 and again this year. This writer hosts a weekly Sunday session with an array of special guests which have included folks from every spectrum of the regional music scene.
And, of course, there is the beer. Whether it is their hearty Scott’s Tavern ale or the playful Hayloft Haze – or perhaps the many in between – customers are hard pressed to find something they won’t call a favorite. All of the standard brewery tasting options are in place, including flights and samples. There is always a delicious popular food truck option during their busiest open hours. Big Inlet Brewing has quickly become a destination for local and out of town visitors and its “community gathering place” charm keeps folks coming back.
Located in Amish country just outside of Mayville New York at 6169 Elm Flats Road, it is just off the beaten path but not hard to find. Plus, it’s a quick trip from virtually everywhere from Jamestown to Erie. Their latest beer menu, hours and entertainment lineup can be found at oft-updated website, biginletbrewing.com.