Life as a monk was not all solemn chants and stone-cold silence. The day would typically begin with prayer, followed by a rigorous schedule that blended religious devotion with the meticulous art of brewing. Hours were spent tending to the hops, ensuring the perfect balance of bitterness and aroma. Copper kettles boil the wort, releasing a heavenly scent that permeates the monastery walls. Prayers would be interwoven with the daily tasks; each step was imbued with a reverence for the sacred art of creating liquid gold. Beer!
And where better to channel that boozy monk mojo than at The Hoppy Monk in San Antonio, TX!
While the Hoppy Monk doesn't boast real-life monks brewing behind the bar, the inspiration is undeniable. The dedication to quality and the meticulous attention to detail hint at the monastic origins of brewing. This spirit is evident in the extensive beer list, featuring an impressive selection of Belgian-style ales and lagers. From the light and refreshing Saison’s to the complex and boozy Quads, the Hoppy Monk caters to every beer aficionado's palate. The Hoppy Monk's beer selection is like a treasure trove for hopheads and barley buffs alike. They've got everything from local legends to rare imports, enough to make even the snobbiest of beer snobs do a happy dance. IPA? Stout? Sour? You name it, and they've probably got it. And if you're feeling bold, why not dive into a flight and sample a little bit of everything? They also make a pretty good cocktail if you are in the mood for something other than beer.
But hold onto that pint of frothy goodness because we're just getting started. The Hoppy Monk isn't just about the beer. They've also got a food menu that'll make your taste buds stand up and salute. Gourmet burgers, tasty sandwiches, and even a Sunday brunch worthy of taking mom on Mother's Day. Take the Brunchwich, which is the classic breakfast muffin that made it to the big dance and absolutely owned the night!
For lunch or dinner, I recommend the pasteurized raised rib eye sandwich. Smothered in sauteed onions, this, by itself, is a reason to head on out to the Hoppy Monk. Paired with the red onion-onion rings, you have, quite possibly, the most perfect sandwich side combo to ever exist on this green earth.
Currently, it is the Lenten season for Christians the world over, and for those who are pious and devoted, like the monks of yore, the fish and chips are easily the best I have had in San Antonio….so far. The batter is seasoned and comes through even when smothered in the house tartar sauce, which is worthy of praise on its own.
(The beer was catching up with me in this pic. It happens) For the vegetarians out there, the Trappist mushrooms will not disappoint!
If you're on the hunt for a place to kick back, relax, and enjoy some damn good beer and grub, look no further than The Hoppy Monk. Step inside, and you'll be transported to a world reminiscent of a Belgian monastery. Chandeliers fashioned from wrought iron and the remnants of past nights of fun hang low,
and the air hums with a gentle murmur of conversation punctuated by the satisfying clink of glasses. So, gather your crew, grab a pint (or three), and prepare to raise a toast to the monks who paved the way for this boozy paradise. Cheers, amigos!