Located in Michigan City, Indiana, Burn ‘Em Brewing, a small brewery and restaurant on East 2nd St. in Michigan City, combines craft beer with a locally sourced, scratch-made food menu in an inviting and unconventional setting. Since its founding in 2013, the brewery has evolved from a home-brewing project among friends into a full-scale restaurant and brewery. Known for its extensive beer and food menu, Burn ‘Em Brewing has gained a reputation as a go-to destination for locals and travelers looking for a casual and inviting atmosphere with an inventive selection.
Burn ‘Em Brewing’s approach to food and drink is deeply rooted in local sourcing and craftsmanship. With more than 700 beer recipes developed over the years, the brewery has established itself as a leader in creativity and experimentation. The beer menu covers a wide range of styles, offering something for both craft beer enthusiasts and newcomers. From bold IPAs to smooth stouts, Burn ‘Em is committed to high-quality, innovative brewing.
The brewery collaborates with area producers like Mick Klug Farms for fresh produce and Howe Farms for hormone- and antibiotic-free beef used in its burgers. This local sourcing not only supports nearby farms but also enhances the quality and freshness of the dishes served. Additionally, the brewery incorporates unique ingredients, while grounding its menu in the flavors of the Midwest.
“Cajun and Southern cuisine had a big influence on our original menu,” Owner Steve Murray said. “Almost a year in, we've expanded to include a diverse range of dishes, though we still serve Cajun-inspired favorites like our muffuletta sandwich and Étouffée Poutine.”
The food menu balances familiar comfort food with bold, regional flavors and inventive combinations. Guests can enjoy a selection of shareable plates, burgers, sandwiches, and main entrees, each crafted to complement the brewery’s beer selection.
“We try using local ingredients whenever possible,” Murray said. “Some of our hops and beef come from Howe Farms, while additional hops are sourced from southwest Michigan. We even forage for ingredients, like spruce tips in spring, to incorporate into our brews.”
One of Burn ‘Em Brewing’s standout beers, the Kreamed Corn Cream Ale, has a unique origin story. Originally developed from a homemade recipe, the beer includes freshly prepared creamed corn rather than the dried and crushed corn traditionally used in cream ales.
“We initially home-brewed this beer using creamed corn from a recipe one of our partner's great aunts used to make,” Murray said. “When we scaled it up for production, we kept the twist of using freshly cooked creamed corn in the mash. This gives the beer a subtle corn flavor and adds a creamier feel to the body of the ale.”
Popular menu items include the Cajun-inspired Étouffée Poutine with Cajun fries, cheese curds, crawfish etouffee, and the vegan Harissa Coconut Jackfruit Pita. The menu also features customizable burgers, regional sandwiches like the Andouille Po’ Boy and Rappin’ Porchetta, and main dishes such as pan-seared coulotte steak and Southern-style chili cheese crawfish etouffee.
Burn ‘Em Brewing continues to experiment with new beers and explore fresh ideas for the food menu.
“There’s always something new in the works,” Murray said. “We love trying different things, and we’re lucky to have guests who appreciate that.”
The magic behind Burn 'Em Brewing's transformation from a casual home-brewing project among friends into a staple of Michigan City’s food and drink scene is the connection Murray shares with Burn 'Em Brewing's team and partners. Their vision has always been focused on creating a welcoming space that reflects community and quality, and their innovative experimentation has helped Burn ‘Em Brewing become a destination that embodies Michigan City’s spirit.
Whether visitors are drawn by the range of craft beers or the scratch-made food, Burn ‘Em Brewing offers an experience grounded in local sourcing and a straightforward, welcoming approach to dining.
To learn more about Burn 'em Brewing, visit burnembrewing.com.