Discover Big Ugly Brewing: Your Go-To Spot For Craft Beer & Community In Chesapeake

Jeff Volkman 02 Aug 2025

Are you on the hunt for a truly special place where excellent craft beer meets a warm, welcoming atmosphere? Then you really ought to check out Big Ugly Brewing. This spot, you know, is a renowned craft brewery. It's known for its truly exceptional craft beers, and people often say it has some of the finest selections around. So, too, if you're ever in Chesapeake, Virginia, visiting this brewery could be a great way to experience something quite unique.

It's not just about the drinks here, though they are, arguably, a big draw. The entire setup is designed to give you a genuine feel for what goes into making these delicious brews. You see, the space was actually designed with exposed equipment. This means, in a way, that guests know they are in a working brewery, which is pretty cool. You get to see a little bit of the magic happening right before your eyes, which, I mean, is a neat touch.

This place has grown quite a bit since it first opened its doors. On opening day, they had, like, four beers on the menu. Now, they've expanded to offer over 20 different choices, with a large selection of various styles. So, you know, there's a lot to explore, and chances are you'll find something that really suits your taste, whether you like light, dark, or something in between. It's a place that just keeps getting better, it seems.

The Story Behind the Name
A Look Inside: The Brewery Experience
- From a Few to Many: Their Beer Selection
- Award-Winning Brews You Might Enjoy
More Than Just Beer: Their Coffee Connection
Community and Connections at Big Ugly
Pretty Ugly Distribution: Getting Their Brews Out There
Join the Insider Program
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Ugly Brewing
Come and Experience Big Ugly Brewing

The Story Behind the Name

Every good place often has a story, and Big Ugly Brewing is, you know, no different. The brewery's namesake comes from Shawn's 1955 Chevy panel truck. This truck, a truly classic vehicle, was affectionately named "Big Ugly." It's kind of a charming detail, really, and it gives the place a bit of character and a connection to something personal. So, when you hear the name, you're actually thinking about a piece of history, a bit of a legacy, that, you know, started it all.

This truck, apparently, holds a special spot in the story of how the brewery came to be. It shows that the roots of this business are deeply personal and connected to things that matter to the folks who started it. It's not just a random name; it's a nod to something quite significant, a bit of a foundational element, if you will. It really helps give the brewery a sense of identity, a bit of a unique touch, too.

A Look Inside: The Brewery Experience

Stepping into Big Ugly Brewing, you get a clear sense of purpose, which is, you know, pretty cool. The whole space was designed so guests know they are in a working brewery. This means you'll see exposed equipment all around, which, in a way, adds to the atmosphere. It's not just a bar; it's a place where things are being made, where craft is happening, and that, arguably, makes the experience feel more authentic. You're right there, almost part of the process, you know?

This design choice, it seems, helps bridge the gap between the people enjoying the beer and the actual creation of it. It brings a certain transparency to the process, allowing visitors to appreciate the effort and skill involved. It’s a very hands-on kind of feel, even if you’re just there to relax and have a drink. It just adds to the whole vibe, honestly, making it a bit more engaging than your average spot.

From a Few to Many: Their Beer Selection

When Big Ugly Brewing first opened its doors, they started with a rather modest selection, you know, just four beers on opening day. But, as a matter of fact, they've really grown since then. The menu has expanded quite a lot, offering over 20 different beers today. That's a pretty big jump, and it shows their dedication to offering variety and exploring different tastes for everyone who visits.

This wide selection means there's, you know, something for almost every palate. Whether you prefer a lighter, crisp ale or a deeper, richer stout, chances are you'll find something that calls to you. It's clear they put thought into offering a broad range, ensuring that people can come back again and again and still discover something new to try. It's a testament to their brewing creativity, really.

Award-Winning Brews You Might Enjoy

It's always nice to know when a place has been recognized for its quality, and Big Ugly Brewing, apparently, has received some notable awards. They were honored as the 3rd best brewery overall, which is, you know, quite an achievement, earning a gold recognition for that. This really speaks to the consistent quality of their craft and the dedication of their team.

Beyond the overall recognition, some of their specific beers and even their tasting room have been singled out for praise. Their tasting room, for instance, received a silver recognition for being the best. And when it comes to specific brews, Ghost Rider Porter and Sunbeam Blonde both earned silver recognition, which, I mean, is pretty impressive. These are just a few examples of the quality you can expect when you visit. They also have other notable beers like Pog Gose, Hot Pursuit IPA, Leaf Peepers, and Barnfind Barleywine, showing a good range of styles that, you know, have been well-received.

More Than Just Beer: Their Coffee Connection

What's really interesting about Big Ugly Brewing is that their passion for craft extends beyond just beer. They are also, you know, a small batch, locally owned coffee roasting company. This part of their business is proudly located right there in Chesapeake, Virginia, which is pretty neat. It means they're not just about one kind of beverage; they have a broader appreciation for flavors and crafting delicious drinks.

From the very start, from sourcing the beans to the actual roasting process, they truly value bold flavors and drinkability in every cup of coffee they make. They work hard to ensure that each brew offers a satisfying experience. So, if you're a coffee enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a good cup, this is, arguably, another reason to check them out. It's a nice complement to their beer offerings, really, providing another avenue for people to enjoy their dedication to quality.

Community and Connections at Big Ugly

Big Ugly Brewing is clearly a place that values its connection to the community, and this is apparent in several ways. They are always looking for ways to bring people together, whether it's through expanding their physical space or offering opportunities for local talent and businesses to get involved. It's a very community-focused approach, which, you know, makes it feel like a truly local spot.

They understand that a great brewery is more than just a place to get a drink; it's a gathering spot, a hub for activities, and a place where memories are made. This commitment to fostering connections is, I mean, pretty clear in all the different initiatives they have going on. They really seem to want to be a central part of the local scene, which is, honestly, a good thing for everyone.

Expanding the Outdoor Patio Area

There's some exciting news about Big Ugly Brewing's space, which, you know, really shows their commitment to making the experience better for everyone. They are expanding their outdoor patio area, which is, honestly, a great idea, especially when the weather is nice. This means more room for people to relax, enjoy their drinks, and just hang out in the fresh air, which, I mean, is always a plus.

As part of this expansion, they are offering a very unique opportunity for people to be a part of it. You can purchase a plaque that will be permanently placed in the new patio area. This is a really nice way to leave your mark, to show your support, and to become a lasting part of the brewery's story. It's a pretty cool way to connect with the place, you know, and help them grow.

Hosting Your Special Occasion Here

Here at Big Ugly Brewing, they are, you know, happy to offer their unique space for your special occasion. This is a pretty convenient option if you're looking for a distinctive setting for your next gathering. They're set up to accommodate a variety of events, which, I mean, is pretty versatile.

Whether you're planning retirement parties, holiday parties, or birthdays, they're ready to help. Even for more casual hangouts, they're here to give you a great experience. It's clear they want their space to be a go-to spot for celebrations and get-togethers, making it a truly flexible option for many different kinds of events. You can find out more about booking your event by reaching out to them.

Interested in Being a Vendor?

For those who are interested in being a vendor for future events at Big Ugly, there's a clear process to follow, which, you know, makes things pretty straightforward. You'll need to fill out a PDF application, which is available, and then send it to biguglyvendors@gmail.com. It's important to remember that applications are only accepted via email, so that's the way to go.

When you apply, they'll need some specific information. This includes your name or band name, the music genre if applicable, whether you're a solo act or a full band, and your cost. They also ask for audio and/or video examples, which is, arguably, a good way for them to get a sense of your style. You'll also need to provide your availability. Just remember, emailing them the application information is the correct method, so, you know, make sure to follow those steps carefully.

Pretty Ugly Distribution: Getting Their Brews Out There

Big Ugly Brewing doesn't just keep all its great beer at the brewery; they also have a distribution arm called Pretty Ugly Distribution. This part of their business focuses on distribution for independent craft breweries. So, you know, they're helping other local breweries get their products to more people, which is pretty cool.

This distribution service covers a good range of areas, servicing Hampton Roads, Richmond, and the OBX. It's a way for them to support the wider craft beer scene and make sure more people can enjoy quality independent brews. It really shows their commitment to the craft industry as a whole, which, I mean, is a nice touch. They're not just brewing; they're helping others, too.

Join the Insider Program

If you're a regular visitor or just someone who wants to get more out of your Big Ugly Brewing experience, you might want to consider their Insider program. Once you are signed up for Insider, you can easily search for your favorite brewery, which is, of course, Big Ugly Brewing, under "My Insider." This feature allows you to see your points and any offers you might have, which is, you know, pretty convenient.

It's a good way to keep track of your visits and get rewarded for your loyalty. Be sure to let your server or bartender know you're part of the program so your points can be added. It's a simple system that, honestly, makes your visits a bit more rewarding, giving you extra reasons to keep coming back. Learn more about our loyalty program on our site.

Frequently Asked Questions About Big Ugly Brewing

What kind of beers does Big Ugly Brewing offer?

Big Ugly Brewing has a really wide selection of beers, which is, you know, pretty impressive. They started with just four on opening day, but now they offer over 20 different kinds. This includes award-winning options like their Ghost Rider Porter and Sunbeam Blonde, which both received silver recognition. You might also find their Pog Gose, Hot Pursuit IPA, Leaf Peepers, and Barnfind Barleywine, among many others. They really aim for a broad range of tastes.

Can I host an event at Big Ugly Brewing?

Yes, you absolutely can host your special occasion at Big Ugly Brewing! They are happy to offer their unique space for a variety of gatherings. This includes things like retirement parties, holiday parties, birthdays, and even just casual get-togethers. They're set up to help you have a great time, which, I mean, is pretty convenient for planning your next event.

What is the story behind the name "Big Ugly"?

The name "Big Ugly" has a pretty cool and personal story behind it. It comes from Shawn's 1955 Chevy panel truck, which he affectionately named "Big Ugly." So, the brewery's name is actually a tribute to this classic vehicle, giving the place a unique and memorable identity that, you know, connects to its roots.

Come and Experience Big Ugly Brewing

Big Ugly Brewing offers a truly unique experience for anyone looking for great craft beer, delicious coffee, and a welcoming community space. It's a place where the love for brewing is, honestly, clear in every detail, from the exposed equipment to the ever-expanding beer menu. Whether you're a local or just visiting Chesapeake, it's, you know, worth a stop to see what they're all about.

With their commitment to quality, their growing selection of brews, and their efforts to build a strong community, Big Ugly Brewing is, arguably, more than just a place to grab a drink. It's a destination where you can relax, connect, and enjoy some truly exceptional craft beverages. So, really, consider making a trip to see them soon. For more general information about the craft beer industry, you could look up resources from organizations like the Brewers Association.

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