Beer, Caves & Community: Inside John’s Grocery, Iowa City’s Craft Beer Institution

What do beer caves, Bohemian immigrants, Prohibition-era riots, and one legendary corner grocery store have in common?John’s Grocery.In this episode of Ag, Ammo & Adventure, Steve sits down with Doug Alberhasky, third-generation owner of John’s Grocery in Iowa City. A place that’s been fueling Hawkeyes, hunters, tailgates, and craft beer lovers for decades. What started as a family-run corner store in 1948 has grown into one of the most iconic beer destinations in the Midwest.Doug takes us deep into the history behind the store, from the old beer caves beneath Iowa City to the immigrant brewers who helped shape the region’s beer culture. Along the way, we hear stories about the “Beer Mafia” battles of the 1800s, surviving tornadoes and COVID, building one of the best craft beer selections in the country, and what it takes to keep a small family business thriving for three generations.We also talk about Doug’s upcoming historical film Death of a Brewer, which dives into the real-life beer riots and temperance battles that once shook Iowa City.This episode is about more than beer. It’s about community, history, resilience, and the traditions that keep places like John’s Grocery alive.So grab a cold one, settle in, and join the Liar’s Club for a story that’s been brewing in Iowa City for generations.Hosts:Steve LarsenTrevor CoffeltMusic:Partner in Crime - Pablo and Pour DecisionsAudio & Post-Production:Rachel Yancey