A Brief History of

Three Dollar Deweys

 

Nestled in the heart of the Old Port of Portland, Maine, Three Dollar Deweys stands as a testament to the city’s rich beer heritage. As the first-ever Portland Ale House, this historic bar has played a pivotal role in shaping the craft beer scene in the region. With its captivating history, vast selection of brews, and welcoming atmosphere, Three Dollar Deweys has rightfully earned its place as a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts seeking a taste of Portland’s brewing legacy.

Alan D. Eames

Deweys was first designed and operated by anthropologist and writer, Alan D. Eames who was known as the “Indiana Jones of Beer” and “The Beer King.” Eames  was born in Gardner, Massachusetts in 1947 and from a young age, Eames was always searching for knowledge. but never learned to drive or use a computer. He traveled through 44 countries in order to gain a complete understanding of the origins of beer and the role it has played in history within different cultures. In Egypt, Eames explored the Egyptian Tombs where he was able to read ancient hieroglyphics about beer. From there, he began to travel along the Amazon River in search of a Black Brew. Eames declared himself as a Beer Anthropologist and earned the title through his seven books, including The Secret Life of Beer.

We’ll Take You Back in Time

Stepping into Three Dollar Deweys is like stepping back in time. The bar’s walls are adorned with vintage beer signs, historic photographs, and memorabilia to emphasize its past. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the evolution of Portland’s beer culture and the role that Three Dollar Deweys played in shaping it. Engage with the friendly staff, who are often well-versed in the bar’s history, and you’ll be educated on fascinating stories and anecdotes about the early days of craft beer in Portland.

We’ll Take You Back in Time

Stepping into Three Dollar Deweys is like stepping back in time. The bar’s walls are adorned with vintage beer signs, historic photographs, and memorabilia to emphasize its past. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the evolution of Portland’s beer culture and the role that Three Dollar Deweys played in shaping it. Engage with the friendly staff, who are often well-versed in the bar’s history, and you’ll be educated on fascinating stories and anecdotes about the early days of craft beer in Portland.

Craft Beer Enthusiast?

One of the main draws of Three Dollar Deweys is its extensive selection of craft beers with our 45 draft lines. Our rotating tap list featuring both local and international brews, caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Voted Best Pub in Portland 2022 and 2023,  Dewey’s will provide you with hop-forward IPAs, rich and robust stouts, or crisp and refreshing lagers, so that you’re sure to find a beer that tantalizes your palate.

The Deweys Community

Beyond its historical significance, Three Dollar Deweys exudes a warm and inviting ambiance. The wooden bar and friendly atmosphere create a feeling of being at home while savoring your favorite brew. Strike up a conversation with fellow patrons, share recommendations, and embrace the sense of community that thrives within these walls. It’s a place where strangers become friends, united by a shared passion for great beer and the love of Portland’s brewing legacy.

The Deweys Community

Beyond its historical significance, Three Dollar Deweys exudes a warm and inviting ambiance. The wooden bar and friendly atmosphere create a feeling of being at home while savoring your favorite brew. Strike up a conversation with fellow patrons, share recommendations, and embrace the sense of community that thrives within these walls. It’s a place where strangers become friends, united by a shared passion for great beer and the love of Portland’s brewing legacy.

The More You Know…

Hailed as the first place in Portland to pour a pint, $3 Deweys unexpectedly closed its doors on July 28th, 2018. As a local staple and historically significant piece of Portland, Maine’s culture, the announcement of the bar’s closure was widely covered by local – and even national – media outlets.

On March 1, 2019, $3 Deweys re-opened under new management with upgraded aesthetics, a new menu, and a passion for superior service.

Portland’s Original Ale House has returned to its former glory. Armed with 45 tap lines and a rich history, the new $3 Deweys will be staying true to its roots – “Serving the best beers from Maine and away.”

$3 Deweys originated in the Old Port back in 1980 when it was started by Alan D. Eames. Through his work as a beer anthropologist, Mr. Eames earned the reputation as the “Indiana Jones of Beer”. Known as a pioneer of Maine’s craft beer scene, it was the otherworldly beers and the bar’s friendly atmosphere that set Deweys apart from the rest.

Best Pub in Portland via Portland Old Port "Best of: 2022 and 2023"