Boulevard Brewing Company is the largest specialty brewer in the Midwest and Kansas City's most recognized culinary export alongside barbecue. Founded in 1989, it has grown substantially while retaining its identity as a Kansas City institution. The brewery on Southwest Boulevard offers free 30-minute tours of the production facility, which must be reserved in advance and fill up quickly on weekends. The associated tasting room — the Bierhall — has a rooftop patio with views toward downtown and serves a full menu alongside the full Boulevard portfolio.
The flagship Wheat beer (Unfiltered Wheat) is an American classic; the Smokestack Series includes more ambitious seasonal releases. The Bierhall is one of the better daytime spots in Kansas City: the food is good, the setting is comfortable, and the beer, obviously, is fresh. It is walkable from the Crossroads Arts District, which makes it an easy combination with a First Friday visit.