Chestnut Brew Works, a staple of the regional microbrewery scene for over a decade, completed a long-anticipated expansion last month with the launch of Chestnut Beer Hall at 132 Pleasant St.
Owner Bill Rittenour and his team transformed the former Black Bear Burritos into a space woven with local talent, history and flavor.
Brian Pickens, the local artist behind distinctive murals at Gene’s Beer Garden and Apothecary Alehouse, contributed freehand wall art that evokes the crisp, green taste of hops. Pickens also painted the support posts running down the center of the space to look like vibrant tree trunks.
Local craftsmen Scott Frederick and Michael Barr created high-top tables using now-rare Chestnut lumber reclaimed from an old church in McDowell County. Rittenour took some of the same lumber and made one-of-a-kind tap handles replete with Appalachian history.
Chestnut Brew Works on Brockway Avenue will continue to brew its signature beers. The Beer Hall, however, provides the necessary space for patrons to gather and enjoy those brews, of which there will be
10-16 on tap.
Mollee’s Irish Red, a brand-new offering named after a beloved canine companion and frequent visitor to the brewhouse on Brockway, is a deep red ale brewed with roasted malts and floral American hops. I can personally vouch for its quality; it was my favorite among the beers I sampled on my first trip to Chestnut Beer Hall.
The additional square footage also allows for a kitchen that serves snacks, appetizers and flatbreads — including one that is vegan and gluten-free. Hours are 4-10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 4-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
With deep respect for local talent and resources and an enthusiastic spirit of collaboration, Team Chestnut has created a space that celebrates both the rich heritage of Appalachia and the vibrant flavors of their brews.
EVA MAYS is a freelance business writer for The Dominion Post. She writes a column on businesses, churches and other entities in the city. To suggest a topic, email her at DPNews@DominionPost.com
