The start of the new year brings New Year's resolutions and the chance for people to kick off 2012 in the right direction. In the spirit of all things new, Big Brad's on Broadwayin downtown Rochester is adding new beers to its tap list, a new cocktail to its beverage list and new music to its entertainment list.
Boasting a 20-beer tap list, Big Brad's has rotated in some new palate-pleasers, including Summit Oatmeal Stout by the Summit Brewing Co. in St. Paul and 5 Barrel Pale Ale by Odell Brewing Co. in Fort Collins, Colo.
Owners say you can still expect old favorites, including those from the Rogue line such as Rogue Dead Guy Ale, Chocolate Stout and Hazelnut Brown Nectar.
Big Brad's has also expanded its list of bottled beers, bringing the number in their cooler close to 80 different labels, with one or two new brews added every couple of weeks.
If you're looking for something a little sweeter, try a s'more martini. This new winter cocktail features Godiva chocolate vodka and marshmallow vodka, a graham cracker rim and a swirl of chocolate. It is surprisingly smooth and satisfying after a cold Minnesota day.
ADVERTISEMENT
Also new at Big Brad's is they're adding live acoustic-type music to their Thursday night lineup.
If you're an aspiring musician looking to play out of the comfort of your living room, yet still in a more intimate setting, stop by Big Brad's anytime between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and ask to speak to one of the owners; bring a demo CD if you have one.
Who knows? This might just be your big break into the music biz.
Comedy comes to Cannon River
Speaking of new, Cannon River Winery, at 421 Mill St. W. in Cannon Falls, is starting off the new year with its first-ever comedy night.
From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 14, laugh out loud with emcee Jenn Schaal and comedians Ron Lamprecht and Tim Harmston, who is a regular on Comedy Central and recently appeared on the "Late Show with David Letterman."
A limited number of tickets are available for $20 in advance; call (507) 263-7400 to reserve your spot. Guests must be at least 21 or older.
Complimentary appetizers from Mill Street Tavern will be available.
ADVERTISEMENT
Also new for the winery is Free Friday Nightlive music.
Stop in on Friday nights this month for free live music, appetizers and locally made wine.
Live music is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Friday through January. Coming up, enjoy Joel Kachel today, treVeld on Jan. 13, Tim Brown on Jan. 20 and Maud Hixson on Jan. 27. Go to cannonriverwinery.com for band information.
