Steve_Northshore
ORIGINAL REVIEW (see UPDATE BELOW):
Mac's seems to be going through a Beer House-Cleaning. From what's been said by staff, they are getting rid of about 1/3 of the 48 beer taps ... well, they are apparently going to leave the excess taps, but not hooked up, with a repeat tap handle from some other beer on tap closer to the middle of the bar. So in effect, as many as 21 fewer beers to choose from. One that is being discontinued is Samuel Adams Boston Lager. This was 1 of 2 bars that featured Boston Lager. There will still be 1 American lager that is on the amber/darker side, Yuengling Traditional Lager, which is OK but without the richer, full-bodied flavor that Sam's has. They "might" still feature Boston Beer's seasonal beers (Winter Lager, Cold Snap, Octoberfest .... ), but that has apparently not been fully determined. The 1 beer in the list I could safely drink of Boston's Lager's caliber, was Boston Lager. On-line information reveals that Gluten Tests place it's level almost at Gluten-Free, below 20 ppm. And I have a Gluten sensitivity. And Boston Lager is highly regarded and consistent!
IT Looks like as many as 21 beers or taps are being eliminated, which is a shame, they were noted for their 48 taps and great selection.
So I guess for now, my backup plan is the Boston Lager tap at Carolina Ale House in city center, or Boston Lager bottles at home. Carolina Ale House has and still features 48 taps. I will still visit Mac's for their excellent food, their flavored Mules which are great, and their friendly staff, friendliest in town!
UPDATE:
Having been contacted by Guest Relations from Mac's corporate, I can say without hesitation that they care about their customers' experiences as much as their local staff does... and that's a lot! I can certainly understand if the numbers say 1 beer has to go, another has to be added ... sounds like business to me. Response from corporate was well beyond expectations, and as of today they have added Samuel Adams Boston Lager in bottles to help keep me coming back, and it is greatly appreciated! I guess in the long run I'd prefer draught beer taste, however attention to the customer that they have displayed would easily win out. Sam Adams is great no matter the vessel, so I was the winner all the way around. Thanks Mac's Team ... 5 STARS!