I recently took a Saturday road trip with my friends Ryan and Doug to East Moline to visit Midwest Ale Works. We had lively discussions about which ’90s cereal was the best, while Doug read excerpts from Foucault’s The Order of Things. As we got out of the car, we couldn’t help but admire the old brick building, which looked like a scene from The Last of Us.
Midwest Ale Works is part of a unique complex that includes Iron + Grain Coffee House, the music venue Rust Belt, Jennie’s Boxcar restaurant, and Dark Horse Aesthetics salon. This design promotes an easy flow of customers between the businesses.
Once inside, we ordered a sampler flight of beers served on a metal platter that resembled a shield from an action film. WA also offers THC drinks for those looking for something different, which is a hit with out-of-state visitors. Be aware, though, that Iowa restricts these beverages to just 4 mg.
We wandered to a hallway lined with 20 pinball machines, creating perfect nostalgia. The lighting was cozy and clear, allowing us to focus on the games. The lineup included favorites like Metallica and X-Men, along with some rare machines like Aliens. A special mention goes to Dennis Keppy, who maintains these machines in excellent condition.
After some intense pinball matches, we decided to get food from Jennie’s Boxcar. The menu highlights local ingredients, including plenty of vegan options. We tried the Boxcar Nachos, featuring homemade chips, fiesta queso, and barbacoa, along with delicious shrimp and chicken tacos. Each bite was a burst of flavor. The shrimp taco was a pleasant surprise, perfectly cooked and complemented by fresh ingredients.
As our visit wrapped up, the Rust Belt was just gearing up for a night of music. The mix of great food, tasty drinks, and live entertainment made this place a gem. Additionally, pinball enthusiasts often flock here for tournaments, with the next one scheduled for March 6-9.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s refreshing to find a spot that marries fun, food, and community spirit. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or just looking for a good meal and live music, East Moline has something for everyone.
For more about Midwest Ale Works and to explore their events, you can visit Midwest Ale Works.
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Source linkBumper Crops: A Pinball Odyssey,Iowa Breweries,LV Recommends,Midwest Ale Works,Quad Cities dining,The Rust Belt
