Contrary Brewing Co (Craft Beer & Brewery in Muscatine IA)

Contrary Brewing Co. in Muscatine, Iowa, is a behemoth of variety with more than 19 craft beers pouring from its taps. If you think a Hazy IPA or a DIPA is just a marketing gimmick, you haven’t tasted the silky, fruit‑laden pour they serve here. The lineup stretches far beyond the usual suspects, offering everything from punchy Session ales to barrel‑aged gems, each brewed with a precision that would make a Swiss watchmaker blush.

The place looks like an industrial loft that escaped the pretentious‑art‑gallery crowd (the owners — who clearly hate anything that smells of pretension — opted for clean lines and exposed steel). Live music drifts over the outdoor seating, turning a casual drink into a tiny festival, while the kitchen keeps things simple and satisfying with bruschetta and flatbread pizza that complement the beer rather than compete with it.

In short, Contrary is a playground for anyone who respects a well‑crafted brew but doesn’t take themselves too seriously. It’s the kind of spot where you can savour a perfectly balanced IPA, tap your foot to a local band, and leave feeling that the world’s a bit less boring.

Why we love this brewery

What visitors love

Contrary Brewing Co offers an impressive selection of craft beers, with many reviewers praising the quality and variety. The brewery's atmosphere is also highly regarded, with comfortable outdoor seating and live music events adding to its appeal.

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