HeadFlyer Brewing, Minneapolis, MN

4 Paws Marketing
Apr 13
4 min read

Updated: Jul 4

Front of Walter Station — Fun spot in Northeast Minneapolis

HeadFlyer is located in Northeast Minneapolis, in a pretty cool historic building, so it’s got that old-school charm to it. I did a little digging and found out the name “HeadFlyer” comes from a lake where the owner used to spend time growing up—it’s got a personal backstory, which I always love. Apparently, the name also means something along the lines of stepping outside your comfort zone and chasing possibilities. Fun tid-bit of information - I think it’s cool when you can learn about the roots of some of these breweries, they all have a unique story.

It’s not the most convenient for us suburbanites, but it’s the kind of place I’d go more often if it were closer to home. And fun fact—they were on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in January, which is super cool. So if you're a Guy Fieri fan (or love a good Minnesota food-and-drink spotlight), check out the Food Network episode, then go check the place out for yourself!

Drinks:

There were a couple of sours on tap when we were there, and I was all about it, always a bonus when there are choices.

One option was a seasonal Belgian Gose called Beyond the Door flavored with pink peppercorn and hibiscus. I gave it a solid 3/5. It was interesting, not horrible, I just would choose the other one first.

The real star was the Radiant Baby Kettle Sour. Raspberry-forward, somewhat sweet, a little bit tart—it basically checked all the boxes for me. I gave it a 4/5 and yes, I did get a refill. I would've taken some home if I wasn’t already trying to juggle 2 dogs and not to make a huge scene (more on that later…).

Beers on tap at HeadFlyer — Lots of great options to choose from!

graphic of 5 beer glasses, 4 of them are highlighted — 4 out of 5

Food:

Kitchen, but always at least one food truck on site. We ordered from their “resident” truck - OG Zaza Pizza. Pretty decent pizza, woodfired, a pretty common theme among local breweries, but it was great with a fresh cold pint. We had to try it, since it made it on Guy Fieri’s DDD list.

They also offer the usual brewery snacks—flavored pretzels from Von Hanson’s —if you're just looking for something small.

They earn a solid 4/5, the pizza was great and the fact that there was another food truck option is noteworthy!

graphic of 5 food plates, 4 of them are highlighted — *4 out of 5*

Dog Friendliness:

YES! Let’s talk about the real stars of the show: Storm and Harley (yes, we brought both of them this time around). Love the fact that I can bring my pooches with me, no matter the weather. While it was pretty packed, we managed to find a spot to hang out without being in the way. That said…Harley had other plans.

Harley, in all her 110 pounds, decided to visit the dog next door while pulling me completely off balance. I fell. And in the process took out 3 metal stools (on a completely concrete floor). It was a whole, huge thing. Everyone had to see what was happening - I probably looked like I’d been there sipping sours all afternoon, when in reality, I hadn’t even gotten to enjoy a single sip! Harley, was actually a bit embarrassed. Me? I’m fine, of course, but still rocking a bruise from that massive moment of chaos. So next time…we may just bring Storm.

graphic of 5 bones, 5 of them are highlighted — 5 out of 5

Atmosphere:

This place is fun and welcoming. There is actually quite a bit of seating available, both inside and outside. The day we were there happened to be completely full, but still we managed to find a place to sit. There are tons of seating options—indoor, outdoor, and even some comfier corners if you're lucky enough to snag them. I’m a sucker for that old building feel—the hardwood floors, brick walls, and even a fireplace with a couch. It’s the kind of spot that would be perfect for a lazy winter afternoon when it’s quieter. They’ve also got all kinds of events and activities happening, so if you like trivia nights or craft fairs, it’s worth checking their schedule ahead of time. I’ve been there previously representing Ruff Start Rescue and their photos with Santa Event - that too drew quite a crowd!

This definitely deserves a 4.5/5, I find it very fun!

graphic of 5 bulbs with 4.5 highlighted — 4.5 out of 5

Merch & More:

They’ve got a great merch selection—a variety, including gear that represents all of our MN sports teams as well as their regular HeadFlyer branding. Hats, shirts, sweatshirts, barware… I was proud of myself for not buying anything the day we were there, but I’ll definitely be grabbing something next time.

They had a good stash of games, including a giant cribbage board, coloring options for the kids and something for everyone…always a win in my book. They host a number of events at this location as well, be sure to check out the calendar on their website!

graphic of 5 tshirts with 4 highlighted — 4 out of 5

Overall:

HeadFlyer Brewing checks a lot of the boxes for me—great drink options, dog-friendly (inside and out), trendy vibes, and a decent selection of merch. I’ll definitely be back, and next time, I’m trying to get there when it’s a little less chaotic and a bit more relaxing.

I’d love to stop in on a chill day, grab a spot by the fire, and sip a sour or two without taking out any furniture. Bonus points forever for letting the four-legged friends come inside—just maybe leave the giant fur-child at home if you want a quieter experience.

If you haven’t been to HeadFlyer yet, you have to give it a shot. Especially if you're a sour lover or traveling with pups. Just hang on to your barstools!

graphic of 5 stars with 4 highlighted — 4 out of 5