Voodoo Brewery

I was headed home from a swim meet in Garland one Saturday, looking for a place to grab lunch but wanting something new rather than the same old hat. I typed “breweries” into Maps, and Voodoo magically appeared. We thought it was a mistake, given that we frequent the downtown Plano area often and never come across a brewery, so we decided to check it out, and sure enough, Maps was right (for once).

Meadville, Pennsylvania-based brewpub Voodoo Brew Co, founded in 2005, recently opened its third Texas location in Plano, on 14th Street in between Avenue I and Avenue K.  Greeted by franchise owner and Allen resident Jennifer Dartez, we immediately felt like family, and after talking with her for a bit, sharing where we lived and what I do, she generously offered to host a resident event for theMagazine.

While beer is undoubtedly the focus, Voodoo offers much more, including seltzers, cocktails, and a diverse menu with pizzas, sandwiches, and snackable/shareable appetizers.  More on that is just a bit-e.

When you walk into Voodoo, it’s like stepping into a funhouse of craft beer.  The vibe is chill, but not too chill—the kind where you still feel encouraged to try something totally out there (looking at you, “White Magick of the Sun”). And the décor? It’s got just enough psychedelic punk rock energy to make you feel like listening to The Doors.

Now, let’s talk beer. The selection is like a treasure chest of wild flavors, and you don’t even need a map. From funky sours to smooth stouts, they’ve got a brew for every personality type. Not into beer that makes you pucker? Grab the Emply Calories, a crisp and refreshing lager. Feeling adventurous? Try something like Lacto-Kooler, a neon-green sour ale that’ll have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about beer. It’s tangy, bold, and tastes like childhood dreams mixed with adult fun.

And don’t sleep on the food menu! Voodoo’s got some tasty bites that complement their eclectic brews. We sampled the Pub Pretzel, which was served with homemade beer cheese and beer mustard.  House-made roasted red pepper Hummus served with pita and veggies for dipping.  The Boules, as they call them, Hush Puppies and Boudin Balls, are deep-fried golden brown and served with a zesty Cajun Ranch drizzle.  Chicken Nachos smothered in beer cheese, Creole Salsa, lime cream, jalapenos, and cilantro. And finally, their Voo-Dill Pickle pizza, featuring house-made garlic pesto, pizza cheese, Voo-dill pickles, and secret pickle spice.

The staff? Seth and the crew are both knowledgeable and super friendly.  You know that balance between being chill and helpful? They nail it. If you’re unsure what to drink, they’ll guide you through the menu without making you feel like you’re on a brewery quiz show.

So, whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just looking for something different and new to try, head over to Voodoo Brewing Co.  You’ll be glad you did!