Grist Brewing

Grist Brewing opened in 2013 in Highlands Ranch with brewer Rob Kevwitch at the helm. Kevwitch has a Ph.D. in organic chemistry and studied "photodegradable dendrimer/polymeric systems" in a former life. Now he runs a brewery. Overqualified? Hardly. Making good beer takes a balance of science and creativity, and Kevwitch pours his heart into both — something symbolized by an actual balance (his grandfather's) that hangs on the wall. In addition to featuring excellent beer (try the standout Berliner weisse), the tap room is packed with charm. A huge rectangular bar serves as the centerpiece of a space that includes flat-screen TVs, a multi-colored neon sign, a counter-pressure growler filler -- the coolest in town -- and a Crowler machine and fermentation tanks that sit so close that you can touch them. Drink at Grist: You'll feel smarter.