Minneapolis Pub Charges $6 for Its Own Microbrews and $7 for Coors Light Cans

Here's one way to get customers to try a microbrew: Eater MPLS reports that The Freehouse opened its doors yesterday offering a menu with $7 tall boys of beers like Coors Light, PBR, and Bud Light while their own microbrews only cost $6. The pricey beers are listed in a section of the Freehouse menu called "Guest Cans," while "Guest Beers" (like Ommegang Three Philosophers and Stone Arrogant Bastard) are on tap at $8 for a 16 ounce pour.

[Screengrab: The Freehouse]

On Twitter, the co-owner of Freehouse Stephanie Shimp suggests a reason why the surprisingly high prices work for her brewpub: "Why would anyone even 'want' a National brand at a local brewery!" Of course, her logic leaves a question as to why her brewery included those beers on the menu in the first place. Still, it does seem like a novel marketing idea.

By way of comparison, a Minneapolis discount liquor store is selling 18-packs of Bud Light tall boys for $13.98 which puts the cost of a can at under a dollar. Not surprisingly, the inflated pricing is already drawing criticism. Local food website Heavy Table joined the Twitter fray, accusing Freehouse of bringing "Trendy NYC beer prices" to the Midwest. Twitter user @sextusmaximus did some mental math, claiming: "Kinda hungover after 12 cans of Coors Lights @FreehouseMpls last night. Only $84 plus tax and tip. Sorry kids, no Santa this year." As of publishing, the $7 prices are still live on Freehouse's online menu, and there doesn't seem to be any sign that the menu prices will change.

· The Freehouse Is Charging $7 for Cans of Coors Light [Eater MPLS]
· The Freehouse Drinks Menu [Official]
· All Beer Coverage on Eater [-E-]