Mad Bomber Brewing Company

After updating their equipment from a single-barrel to a seven-barrel system, Mad Bomber Brewing Co. is no longer the smallest brewery in Idaho — but still holds the distinction of being the smallest in Kootenai County. While tiny, the passion for their beer is mighty, says general partner and head brewer Tom Applegate, who also served as a bomb squad technician in Afghanistan. When he and three others opened the brewery less than two years ago, they had seven beer recipes. Now they have 40 and keep a roving list on tap in their tasting room, a cozy, military-themed space that can accommodate up to 70 patrons. Applegate says Mad Bomber beer is served in 26 area restaurants and that plans for expansion are on the horizon.