End of an Era: Eastlake Craft Brewery
When one door closes, as they say, another one opens. But before we open the door to the future, let’s take a moment to reflect on the past. Eastlake Craft Brewery, a beloved institution in the vibrant Midtown Global Market of Lake Street in Minneapolis, has officially announced it will be closing its doors. There will be no postseason for Eastlake, and fans throughout the city are mourning the loss.
The Journey of Eastlake Craft Brewery
Eastlake Craft Brewery was not your typical run-of-the-mill gastropub. From its humble opening in 2014, it has consistently mesmerized local beer enthusiasts with its exciting portfolio of craft beer, from fine IPAs to smoky porters and subtly exotic sours. With its cozy interior and unique beer selection, the Minneapolis-brewery made it big in the city’s nightlife.
Keeping the Passion Alive
Nearly seven years have passed since Ryan Pitman, the founder of Eastlake Brewery, first sold his brews to the public. Pitman, a former copywriter, began home brewing as a hobby. But soon, it morphed into a passion that would lead to the creation of this downtown hotspot. Despite never having professional brewing training, his dedication and love for craft beer resulted in some of the finest pints in the city.
A Brewery that brought the Community together
Eastlake wasn’t just about the beer; it was a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. They were a staple in the downtown community. The brewery hosted trivia nights, board games, and live music, breathed life into the community, making it more than just a place to grab a drink – it was a place to connect.
Why is Eastlake closing?
Making it in the hyper-competitive craft beer market is no easy feat. With new entrants popping up like mushrooms across Minneapolis, the competition has been growing fierce. Unfortunately for Eastlake, it seems the pressure became too much.
COVID-19’s Impact
COVID-19 indeed served a massive blow to small businesses, and Eastlake was no exception. The social restrictions, coupled with public fear about dining out, translated into reduced consumer traffic and diminished sales. Despite their best efforts, it seems like the pandemic has ultimately proven too difficult to navigate.
Farewell, Eastlake
It’s a sad day for the Minneapolis beer community. Despite the unfortunate closure, the legacy of Eastlake will always remain in the heart of beer lovers and the community it served. While we may not be able to sit at the Eastlake bar, sipping their unique brews and enjoying the atmosphere anymore, we can cherish the memories. And who knows? In the craft beer industry, there’s always room for a second act. Here’s holding out hope for an Eastlake Craft Brewery reincarnation.
A Toast to the Future
So, here’s to Eastlake Craft Brewery – for the delicious beers you brewed, for the community you built, and for the inspiration you’ve provided for future craft breweries. Not making it to the postseason doesn’t mean the game is over. It just means the next season could be an even bigger and better journey. Cheers!
Bite to eat or a drink. It became a place where people could connect and create memories. Eastlake Craft Brewery was more than just a business, it was a beloved institution in Minneapolis and its closure marks the end of an era. Though it is a sad time for fans and the city, it is important to remember the impact that Eastlake had on the community and the passion and dedication of its founder, Ryan Pitman. While it may be the end for Eastlake, it is also an opportunity for something new to emerge, and we can look forward to what the future holds.
Cold beer. It was a space where people could come together, share stories, and create memories. Eastlake Craft Brewery played a significant role in fostering a sense of community in Minneapolis, and its closure will undoubtedly be felt by many. However, as the saying goes, when one door closes, another one opens. Hopefully, another establishment will step up to fill the void left by Eastlake and continue to bring people together in the same way.