When it comes to imbibing, our readers once again bend over backward for the Kettlehouse. Familiar faces on the stools and at the tap make this Myrtle Street staple a warm place for a cold IPA from noon to 8 p.m. Swarms of post-work patrons are constant evidence that Tim O'Leary and his squad are doing something right, and the operation continues to grow. Canning is running full-steam at the spacious new First Street pad these days, and four-packs of Cold Smoke and Double Haul are becoming a constant on local shelves. As any dedicated patron knows, the place we spend our nights is merely a "home away from Kettlehouse." Kettlehouse Brewery: 602 Myrtle St; 782-1660; kettlehouse.com
2. Big Sky Brewing: 5417 Trumpeter Way; 549-2777; bigskybrew.com
3. Bayern Brewing: 1507 Montana St; 721-1482; bayernbrewery.com