OC Restaurant Quest: Griffin Claw Brewing Co in Birmingham and Rochester Hills
(Crystal A. Proxmire, July 3, 2024)
Birmingham, Rochester Hills, MI – People who love Michigan-made beer are probably pretty familiar with Griffin Claw Brewing Company which got it’s start in Birmingham and expanded in Rochester Hills.
Among their crafted selections are a number of lagers, ales, and IPAs, like the El Rojo Red Ale, Norm’s Raggedy IPA, Czech Dark Lager, Banana Dunk Stout, and the Conflict of Interest New England IPA. They’ve also expanded into production of vodka, hard cider, and other spirits.
Unfortunately, adult beverages are not my area of expertise. So if you’re looking for a review about that, all I can say is that I trust Griffin Claw’s popularity and hope that those who do like to drink might enjoy them.
What I do like, however, is food. So it was fun to order a sampling of items off their menu from the Rochester Hills location.
First, and most favorite, was an order of Wagyu Bigga Meatballs. The set of three came made with Wagyu beef, and ground pork served with grilled asparagus and red pepper Alfredo, as well as garlic bread. This was beautifully presented as well as being made with amazing flavor. Plus, it’s a big serving, so I had one and was able to reheat the others later.
Another good choice was fish tacos, made with breaded fish, slaw, pico de gallo, and lime cream. There were two tacos, as well as tortilla chips. The lime cream gives these tacos just the right amount of tanginess to go with the crispy breading.
My second meal from Griffin Claw also had two tasty items.
I am a sucker for those little pepperonis that curl into little greasy cups with crispy edges, so I got pizza. It was good. Nice floury dough cooked to make a crisp bottom and edges, with a nice soft middle. I paired this with an order of Brussels sprouts, made with bacon, feta, and balsamic.
Griffin Claw has a variety of meal choices. There are burgers, and sandwiches which include the pesto chicken wrap, California salmon club, and even a Southwest vegan cheeseburger made with plant-based impossible patty. Blackened chicken gnocchi also sounds delicious, as does the caprese salad.
Those feeling more adventurous might enjoy the avocado fries, which are corn battered and fried golden brown, then topped with jalapeno, cilantro lime, and chipotle aioli.
Griffin Claw is located at 575 S. Eaton Road in Birmingham, and 2265 Crooks in Rochester Hills. Lean more, and order online, at https://griffinclawbrewingcompany.com
Oakland County Times is on a QUEST to enjoy every local restaurant in Oakland County. This long-term project is a labor of love, supported by our friends at White Castle. White Castle is a family-owned company that is proud to be one of only 20 large employers to make the Fortune Best Places to work list in 2022. With steam-grilled sliders, crispy golden french fries, fantastic slides like onion chips or fried clams, and the best chocolate shakes, White Castle is a by far our top choice for a fast food meal. Check out their website at www.WhiteCastle.com.
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