About Us

The concept of Bent River Brewing Company was conceived by Tim Koster of Koski's Home Brew Fixens. A staunch defender of quality brewing, Koster gathered support for his vision and in 1997 Bent River Brewing Company opened its doors. It would be another 2 years before the first keg of Pale Ale flowed from the beautifully polished Bohemian Brah Haus copper kettles.

With the help of determined investors and the dedication of Tim and the Bent River crew, the dream had become a reality. Under the supervision of General Manager Nick Bowes, Manager Steve Cogdill, and Head Brewer Steve Ratcliff, Bent River now produces over 10,000 barrels of award-winning beer annually. Attention to detail has garnered yearly awards at brew competions throughout the midwest and include a second place finish at the world renowned Great American Brew Fest! In 2009 local restaurateur and friend of Bent River, Joel Krogman, joined the team continuing the great brewing tradition while adding new events and crafting exciting new menu items. The "River Staff" remain stubbornly dedicated to producing quality handcrafed beers that capture the spirit of traditional brewing.

Located in the heart of the National Registered Historic District area of Moline, this turn of the century building with its decrorative stone arches has become an anchor in the rejuvenation of the Moline Centre. Keeping with the vision, the facade was renovated in 2009 enhancing the brick Italian Renaissance building while retaining its architectral integrity. A dropped bracketed cornice completes the facade's decor.

Within walking distance of the I Wireless Center and the John Deere Commons, Bent River has become a popular lunch and dinner destination and includes seasonal outside seating on the patio. You'll find typical pub fare with a brewery twist being served 7 days a week beginning at 11:00 AM. The recently remodeled dining area will certainly add to your comfort and with the addition of several flat screen TV's you won't miss your favorite game.

Good food and great beer isn't the only thing you'll find on tap. Special events and live music at our Rock Island location contribute to the Bent River experience. Rock Island's Tasting Room and Distribution Center opened its doors in spring of 2012 in order to keep up with the demand of Bent River's ever-growing fan base.  With a brand new fermentation system and bottling line, Bent River beer is quickly expanding beyond its Quad City roots and can now be found in stores across Illinois and Iowa.