He Teaches Flocculant Customers a Thing or Two
If a customer is new to this kind of service and feels a little startled or overwhelmed by all information, Brian is only too ready to let them choose a more familiar beer, or to explore as many other taps as they wish. Although he knows as much about beer as anyone I’ve ever met, he never makes his customers feel ignorant just because they didn't know, for example, that flocculation is a wort clarifying process where proteinaceous particles clump together into fluffy lumps and then fall out of suspension. No, he isn’t there to force people to learn about beer, but rather to help them choose a beer they will like and to make them feel comfortable about exploring new tastes. And if they appreciate the education too, then so much the better.

After stints at the Big Hunt (another fine beer bar in D.C.) and Buffalo Billiards, today Brian is the owner of his own very fashionable beer bar and restaurant in the heart of Adams Morgan, Washington D.C.’s famous restaurant district.

The Reef . . .
The main level of The Reef has an eye-catching aqueous theme that creates a very hip atmosphere, but not so hip that it feels pretentious. In fact, to the contrary, the friendly and knowledgeable staff manages to capture the feel of a neighborhood bar. And the half dozen giant aquariums filled with coral reefs provide endless hours of entertainment. I have spent a number of evenings simply sipping beers and staring into the tanks, observing the endlessly surprising life forms within. The grooves emanating from the sound system are tres cool, but never too loud, which when combined with the aquariums, creates a serene atmosphere conducive to socializing and conversing.

. . . Is a Relief for Fishies
Besides providing a comfortable and educational beer drinking experience, The Reef also has a decidedly eco-friendly style about it. Given the name and theme, it makes sense that they serve fish that are certified sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council. An environmental statement on the menu explains their commitment to serving food that is produced and sourced in ways that honor the earth. Featured dishes boast seasonal, organic and locally sourced greens and vegetables, free-range poultry, and bison burgers from a nearby farm.

Local Beer = Fresh = Eco-Friendly
Of course, this environmental philosophy extends to the beer selection as well. When I am not trying something new there, I usually rely on the Wolaver's Brown Ale – The Reef being one of the fewplaces I have found this organic beer on tap. In fact, The Reef only serves draft beers, fourteen of them at last count, many of which are locally produced. Like many eco-friendly practices, this approach has a triple pay off. First, it means the beers are always fresh. Without all those bottles, case boxes, and six pack carriers, it also considerably reduces the amount of trash and recycling produced by the restaurant. And this in turn results in lower waste removal fees.

Besides the restaurant, there is also a street level bar called Lush, oozing with a tropical jungle theme. And up on top is Adams Morgan’s best rooftop bar, with gorgeous views of the city. Plus, all fourteen taps are available on every floor.

Don't Be a Firkin Lush, Get to the Bar
It turns out that local beers, fresh organic food, and cool atmosphere adds up to a winning combination, as evidenced by the lines down the sidewalk on most weekend nights. My advice? Get there on a Thursday night when they tap a firkin in Lush bar.