Beer bars are growing in number. Thanks in large part to the craft beer revolution, beers that cater to beer lovers are appearing all over the United States, serving a wide selection of craft beer to an ever- finicky consumer. One of the Texas- based beer bars I have grown to love is Flying Saucer Draught Emporium and apparently others share my affection, for Flying Saucer was recently named one of the top six chain beer bars in the country by DRAFT Magazine.
Selecting the best of the best isn’t a simple task. Draft Magazine looked at several factors, including longevity, a penchant for quality, and other measures. Draft Magazine noted that Flying Saucer has been “setting the standard” for more than two decades and the beer bar’s co- founder Keith Schlabs points out that they are simply doing what they enjoy and doing it well.
“We founded Flying Saucer in 1995 because we love craft beer and wanted to spread the good word”, said Schlabs, who co-founded Flying Saucer with Larry Richardson and Shannon Wynne. “We love what we do and it’s great to be recognized for helping introduce more people to quality draft beer.”
Flying Saucer’s roots can be traced all the way back to Fort Worth, Texas in 1995. It was here, at Sundance Square, that Shannon Wynne opened the world’s first Flying Saucer Draught Emporium. The chain has since grown to 16 locations, each offering its own variety of craft beer including beer popular in the local area plus national and imported favorites as well as hard- to- find options.
Draft Magazine went on to commend Flying Saucer for its popular U.F.O. Club, a frequent visitor program that encourages its card- carrying members to sample new beers. The beer tastings are tracked on each customer’s account and once a U.F.O. member hits 200 beers sampled, he/she gets their name displayed on a brass plate in the Ring of Honor. If a member completes 5 plates, or 1,000 tastings, they are awarded Master of the Universe status. U.F.O. members also receive free admission to Flying Saucer’s annual Texas Beer Feasts.
Flying Saucer is easily one of the nation’s best beer bars and it’s nice to see that Draft Magazine has recognized the Ft. Worth- based chain for its attention to quality and pioneering spirit. I have been a Flying Saucer U.F.O. member for many years and still rank this establishment among my favorite places for craft beer variety. They have been going strong for more than two decades and now command a presence in six states: Texas (locations in Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston Austin, San Antonio), Arkansas, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Missouri.
Cheers and congratulations to Flying Saucer Draught Emporium and here’s to another 20 plus years of great craft beer!
To learn more about Flying Saucer, it’s 16 locations, special events, or U.F.O. club, visit online at www.beerknurd.com.
Leave a Reply