A new sports-focused bar and event space is set to replace Expat BBQ at City Foundry STL, with Niche Food Group and Beast Craft BBQ Co. partnering on the reimagined concept, according to a press release.
The new venue, called Brickline Brew House, will occupy the current home of Expat BBQ at 3730 Foundry Way. The concept is expected to debut this spring following renovations, introducing a more sports-centric atmosphere alongside expanded options for private events and watch parties.
Under the new arrangement, Beast Craft BBQ, led by pitmaster David Sandusky, will operate the barbecue kitchen, serving its signature St. Louis-style smoked meats through a walk-up window similar to other food hall vendors. Meanwhile, Niche Food Group, founded by James Beard Award winner Gerard Craft, will oversee the beverage program and entertainment lineup, including live music, trivia nights and rooftop programming.
Craft said in the release that partnering with Sandusky represents both a natural fit and a meaningful evolution of the space. Sandusky previously served as an advisor during the development of Expat BBQ, and Craft described Beast Craft BBQ as among the best barbecue operations in the region. Together, the teams plan to build on the rooftop’s popularity by pairing barbecue with a robust calendar of events.
The transition also brings Beast Craft BBQ’s Missouri-side presence into sharper focus. Known for its award-winning smoked meats, the restaurant will anchor the new fast-casual kitchen while complementing the broader mix of food hall vendors.
Brickline Brew House is designed to function as both an everyday gathering place and a flexible event venue. When not reserved for private functions, the seating area will remain open to food hall guests. The venue will also feature expanded audiovisual capabilities and enhanced sports viewing throughout the main dining space, reinforcing its role as a destination for game days.
City Foundry officials said the shift reflects growing demand for more adaptable event venues within the food hall. According to the release, the property has received nearly 400 inquiries for small-to-mid-sized private events that could not be accommodated under the current setup. The new configuration is expected to provide a dedicated space for those gatherings while allowing event organizers to incorporate offerings from multiple food hall kitchens.
The partnership also deepens Niche Food Group’s longstanding ties to City Foundry STL. Craft played a role in curating the food hall’s original tenant lineup and continues to operate concepts there, including None of the Above, a speakeasy-style bar beneath the main hall, and Fordo’s Killer Pizza and Kitchen Bar.
The existing kitchen and dining space will close after March 11 to begin renovations, with an official reopening date for Brickline Brew House expected to be announced in the coming months.
