Mellow Mushroom - Johnson City

Drove right by here so I stopped in. Cool vibe, low key, much like the rest of the chain. One customer when I stopped in just after opening but it quickly filled up with regulars. Lots of taps, about a quarter of which were macro and the rest were a good representation of local beers and regional micros including some less common offerings. 4 x 5 ounce flight for 6.99, and my bartender was awesome. Had a hoagie which was passable. Overall a decent stop and probably the best tap list in town.

Another solid Mellow Mushroom, though this one boasts its own Transformer. The staff was very perky and helpful pouring the mostly local tap selection. Good food.

The bar at this MM location was a bit larger than most. Selection was quite good. The most memorable thing about this location was the uber-friendly service, very generous with samples, good beer and food recommendations. A worthwhile stop.

(Visited 01/2013): This Mellow Mushroom location is at the corner of Roan and Oakland not too far off I-26 on the north side of Johnson City. There is a relatively small parking lot so parking may be difficult to find during peak times.

The interior is one room which is segmented by a wavy half wall. Gigantic Optimus Prime by the entrance. The bar is in the left rear of the space with table and booth seating in the remainder. Taps are visible behind the bar and there is a board listing beers. Aside from that the typical head shop meets Chuck E Cheese vibe.

Regarding the beer selection, as with many Mellow Mushroom locations there are a few gems including some regional selections. There are around 40 draught options including beers from Depot Street, Duck Rabbit, Highlands, Wolf Hills and New Belgium. Around 50 bottles too, mainly macros and more common craft brewers. 4-beer samplers are available too

Service on a busy weekday evening was pretty good. The server was somewhat knowledgeable about the beers and kept up with everything well.

Pizzas at Mellow Mushroom are consistent across the different locations. Some people like their pizzas and some do not but I am in the "like" camp.

Overall this location seems less chain-y than the other ones I have visited, and it is worth a visit in Johnson City in my opinion.