First Look: Brew Hub Taproom in Dogtown

Craft beer fans can toast to Brew Hubwhen it opens the doors to its new St. Louis taproom today, March 2, at 5656 Oakland Ave. The partner brewing company will feature 20 rotating beers on tap from its 100,000-barrel brewhouse in Lakeland, Florida, in addition to specialty releases from the house 4-barrel pilot system.

“We’ll do some small standard pub beers like a gold or a brown, something that’s pretty drinkable and can pair well with some of the food,” James “Otto” Ottolini said, who is chief of brewing operations at Brew Hub andformer Schlafly brewmaster.

However, there are also opportunities for testing new ideas and theories on their small system. “We’ve got the ability to do some barrel-aging here, and we’ve also got the ability to do some controlled experiments,” Ottolini said. An onsite still means craft spirits are an option, as well.

“Our whole platform is ‘where craft brewers go to grow,’” said Diane Schoen, vice president of sales and marketing. “It’s a unique opportunity to bring our partners' brands into St. Louis.”

Guests can enjoy Brew Hub’s own Rome City IPA, the Keybilly Island Ale, Deep Dark Secret Imperial milk stout or the Sun Gose Down sour ale.

“Think ‘fun and innovation’ in terms of the styles of beer that are available – not just in what’s made here in a small scale, but also in terms of what we’re bringing up from Florida,” Ottolini said.

The 2,800-square foot space welcomes 120 with a variety of bar and table seating, along with lounge areas. As the weather warms, another 40 seats will be available on the patio.

While they explore Brew Hub’s beers, patrons can enjoy lunch or dinner from chef and general manager Andy White, another Schlafly alum. “It’s going to be very familiar food, but done with the craft to match our beers and our partners’ beers,” White said.

The menu will include a section with small bites like kabobs, sandwiches and tacos. “We want to have things that make you feel comfortable, and somewhat familiar, but done a little more modern,” White said, pointing to items like hand-ground burgers, Moroccan lamb meatballs and a duck Rueben, in addition to several vegetarian-friendly selections.

Brew Hub Taproom will be open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Here’s a first look at Brew Hub’s newest home.

Caitlin Lally is a contributor to Sauce Magazine.