Kesennuma’s Black Tide Brewing

Kesennuma has become known among craft beer lovers for the varieties now produced by Black Tide Brewing. In the heart of the rejuvenated inner bay area, the brewery has a casual shop where you can try a selection of seasonal brews as well as some of the regular favorites. Some are on tap and others are refrigerated and ready for you pop the top.

The ideal time to drop in is well before 6:00, while the immediately connecting seafood store is open. A broad variety of ready-to-eat seafood is on sale for take-out, complete with chopsticks, shoyu, and wasabi. Sanma (saury), squid, and tuna sashimi are highly recommended. The fish are as fresh as can be, and some are cooked and ready to be microwaved on the spot if you wish. The store collaborates with the brewery, providing food that you can carry a few steps to the adjoining brewery. Go early, because the chances are that you will want to pick up one or two more portions of fish after enjoying your first round.

At the brewery begin by trying unique tastes: Ohya Tater, Musubi Maru, Kesennuma Pride, Twilight Glimmer, Tidal Motion, Chill Time, and over a dozen other brews. Tell the crew what types of beer you enjoy, and they will lead you to several that you will like. And follow their suggestions to discover other tastes that you have never imagined existed.

Experienced Oregon brewer James Watney had long wanted to live in Japan and brew beer. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake (2011) and the massive tsunami it triggered, he moved to the city and, with a devoted crew, has worked to contribute to the city’s revival. Excellent beer, for an excellent purpose.

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Photos by J. Vardaman