The shop also stocks mead, an uncommon
drink in the area that comes from B. Nektar
Meadery in Michigan. Donahue describes it
as a kind of honey wine, though his selection
from the meadery includes cherry juice that
brightens the flavor.
Given the variety of beer on tap, the shop
offers a sampler so patrons can try a little of
everything before settling on a new favorite.
One of Donahue’s goals with the pub is to
familiarize the public with the concept of
beer that can taste good, especially for those
who have tried cheap, readily available beer
and written off all beer as a consequence.
“Nobody goes and buys a box of wine, tries
it and decides they don’t like all wine,” said
Donahue, laughing. “Why would you go out
and buy the cheapest beer you can get, and
based on that experience, swear off beer?”
While the pub doesn’t offer food beyond
INSIGHT
popcorn, peanuts or chips, visitors are
encouraged to bring along food or have
food delivered from Roma’s Pizza across the
street, or Mama Goldberg’s Deli, just around
the corner near JSU. Few, if any local bars
offer the option of pairing their brews with
any food you like, but it’s another part of
Joe Beer’s relaxed, inviting atmosphere and
attitude, according to Donahue.
“Whether it’s our beer or som