Every Labor Day, families across Minnesota flock to the state fair for a taste of unique treats. One entrepreneur, Johnny Osborne, took this spirit of indulgence and applied it to craft beer, creating Deep Fried Beers. This brewery has gained acclaim for its unconventional and intensely flavored brews, pushing the boundaries of what beer can be. From high-ABV IPAs to fruity sours, Osborne's creations have captivated both critics and enthusiasts alike. Despite not actually deep-frying beer, his innovative approach has made Deep Fried Beers a standout in the craft beer scene. The brand now operates a brick-and-mortar establishment in Upstate New York, offering a dual identity with Night School, a more laid-back pub serving classic beers and pizzas.

Johnny Osborne’s journey into the world of craft beer began during his college years in Minnesota. Intrigued by a roommate’s smuggled Spotted Cow ale from Wisconsin, he developed a passion for unique flavors. His interest deepened as he sampled various brews after rugby games and through friends. After graduation, Osborne pursued an internship at Monday Night Brewing in Atlanta, where he honed his brewing skills. Eventually, he moved to New York, working at Union Beer Distributors and Sixpoint before landing a head brewer position at TALEA Beer Co.

Inspired by these experiences, Osborne launched Deep Fried Beers, focusing on crafting intensely flavorful, high-alcohol beers. He experimented with massive hop additions and unconventional ingredients, often achieving spectacular results. One of his most notable creations, Glamorous Damage, featured twelve pounds per barrel of Citra and Mosaic hops, earning rave reviews despite initial doubts. Osborne’s willingness to push limits also led to some failures, like Green Goblin, which was overly vegetal. Yet, each experiment contributed to the brewery’s reputation for boldness.

To balance the extreme side of Deep Fried Beers, Osborne introduced Night School, a cozy pub offering everyday favorites like pilsners and pale ales. This duality allows patrons to enjoy both adventurous and traditional brews. Night School’s menu includes delicious pizzas and smash burgers, making it a local favorite. Gebhard, Osborne’s old roommate, manages the cocktail program, ensuring drinks are accessible yet elevated. Signature cocktails like Hall Pass, a clarified milk punch inspired by Benjamin Franklin, add another layer of creativity to the venue.

Osborne’s dedication to his craft extends beyond brewing. When faced with resistance from distributors about bringing Hamm’s beer to his pub, he embarked on a 115-day social media campaign, chugging Hamm’s mixed with energy drinks daily. This relentless effort finally secured Hamm’s on draft, showcasing his commitment to providing customers with diverse options. Whether you’re looking for a mind-blowing triple IPA or a simple Hamm’s, Deep Fried Beers and Night School offer a place where indulgence meets comfort. As Osborne continues to innovate, the future holds even more exciting brews for enthusiasts to explore.