Tobacco Wood Brewing Co, Durham Taproom and American Gastropub (Craft Beer & Brewery in Durham NC)

Tobacco Wood Brewing Co. burst onto the North‑Carolina scene in 2018, proudly wearing the badge of the state’s first female‑ and veteran‑owned brewery. Mara and Paul Shelton (both steeped in brewing know‑how and a healthy dose of audacity) blend tradition with a dash of daring, producing beers that sound like they were forged in a workshop rather than a kitchen. Their line‑up runs the gamut from crisp lagers to tart sours, each one as distinctive as the tobacco‑wood scent that drifts over the taps.

The operation straddles two venues: a relaxed Oxford taproom and a bustling Durham gastropub. Both spaces boast generous indoor and outdoor seating, so you can enjoy a pint whether the sun’s shining or the rain is pouring. Service is unfailingly friendly, and the food menu turns the usual pub fare on its head, with daily specials that range from inventive appetizers to the ever‑popular cheese curds.

What truly sets Tobacco Wood apart is the sense of community that permeates every corner. It’s a place where craftsmanship is celebrated, inclusivity is the norm, and each sip feels like a tiny triumph of ingenuity. In short, it’s a brew haven that deserves more than a casual nod—it warrants a full‑throttle salute.

Why we love this brewery

What visitors love

Tobacco Wood Brewing Co offers a spacious setting with a relaxed atmosphere, but the culinary experience is lacking due to flavorless dishes like burgers and mac n cheese, offset by friendly service and a reasonable price point.

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