News and notes.
» Born and brewed: Local beer-makers scored big at October’s Great American Beer Festival in Denver. Sly Fox Brewing took home a gold for its Pikeland Pils and a bronze for its Instigator Bock. Victory Brewing Company’s Festbier nailed a gold; its legendary Prima Pils, a silver. Rock Bottom Brewery won a gold for its Broad Street Barleywine; Iron Hill Brewery earned a bronze for its Kriek de Hill, a Belgian-style sour beer; and McKenzie Brew House received gold and bronze medals.
» Extreme makeover: After closing in late October for renovations, Stella Blu in West Conshohocken should be ready for action early this month. The new layout is cozy, comfortable and sleek. An updated menu emphasizes fresh fish, premium grilled meats and Euro-style small and large plates.
» Customer appreciation: Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, Radnor’s Pond and Bistro Cassis offer patrons a “thank you” gift card for either a free wine flight or $20.08 off the entire table’s bill. And someone will win dinner for two at Bistro Cassis once a month for a year. (Cards valid January only.)