St. Louis’s largest craft brewer, 4 Hands Brewing Co., is embarking on an exciting new journey with the opening of its latest location slated to take place in late January at Lambert International Airport. Set to debut in Terminal 2, which houses Southwest Airlines gates, this expansion brings a beloved local institution to an international audience, reimagining the airport dining experience.
“The folks who manage the airport and OHM Concession Group approached us when the location became available,” shared Jeremy Danner, the brewery’s digital marketing manager. “They wanted a popular local brewery to have a presence, and given that we’ve become the largest craft brewer in the St. Louis area, it’s a perfect match!”
The new tasting room will balance the familiar warmth of 4 Hands Brewing Co. with the unique demands of an airport setting. Designed with handcrafted oak and U.S. steel elements, the space promises to echo the aesthetic found at their downtown and Kirkwood locations. “We want to create a vibe that feels familiar to people who know us, but also one that you don’t have to be from St. Louis to jump in and enjoy,” Danner explained.
The menu will feature a thoughtful combination of the brewery’s signature offerings. Borrowing from the snack-focused options at their downtown location and the more expansive menu at Kirkwood’s brewery-restaurant hybrid, travelers can expect a variety of flavorful choices. The partnership with Peacemaker Lobster & Crab Co. will add an elevated culinary touch, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from a quick bite before a flight to a leisurely drink during a layover.
4 Hands’ commitment to the St. Louis community has always been a defining feature of its brand. Founded by Kevin Lemp in 2011, the brewery’s name and logo – four hands forming a hop cone – represent Lemp’s family. Since its inception, 4 Hands has remained dedicated to giving back. Initiatives like the Citywide APA program, which donates $1 per case to local charities, and their partnership with the Veterans Community Project underscore their mission to be “more than beer.”
As 4 Hands Brewing Co. prepares to take flight at Lambert Airport, they remain steadfast in their authenticity while embracing the challenges of a new environment. “When things are authentic, you can tell – it’s really important to us,” said Danner. With this thoughtful approach, 4 Hands Brewing Co. is poised to elevate the airport experience, offering travelers a taste of St. Louis’s rich craft beer heritage – one pint at a time.
This article appears in December 2024.