Beer Hall for All

At long last, Columbus Brewing has opened the doors of its east side restaurant and taproom

By Laura Hennigan / Photos by Aaron Massey

Story Design by Victoria Smith

Back in the 1800’s, at the northeast corner of Oak Street and Kelton Avenue, five buildings totaling more than 60,000 square feet served as a hub for the city’s trolley transportation system. Over a century later, the former mechanic’s shop where trolleys were repaired is now home to the new Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall.

It’s an opening that’s been five plus years in the making (slowed down by a pesky pandemic), and CBC owners Eric and Beth Bean are thrilled to see their longawaited dream finally come to fruition. With their original Brewhouse firmly established on the west side, the Beans had long been looking east for their next concept. “This new location really enables us to show the full scope of what we want to do, including an extensive food menu,” says Evan Magliocca, CBC Vice President of Marketing. “It gives us the ability to show off a lot of more unique ingredients and styles, along with integrating the community more.”

An original walk-through of the building revealed its age and state of disrepair, highlighted by mud floors and crumbling walls. In partnership with Connect Real Estate, each of the trolley buildings is being revitalized and repurposed. The Beer Hall has retained all of its original character, with plenty of modern additions. Beth Bean spearheaded the interior remodel, working with local vendors like A Carpenter's Son, the Plant Gays, and Fortner for the design and decorating.

We're trying to source as much locally as possible.

Situated across the street from the East Market, the Beer Hall is an expansive, 13,000 square foot space, housing multiple bars and dining areas, including a back room for private events and a large outdoor patio. One of its biggest distinctions from the original CBC Brewhouse is the massive kitchen, which turns out an extensive and eclectic food menu. Inspired by their travels, the Beans have added distinctive dishes including kimchi pancakes, elote fritters, tikka masala, and bulgogi cheesesteak. “Our beef is from The Butcher & Grocer, and our cheese is from Blue Jacket Dairy. We’re trying to source as much locally as possible,” continues Magliocca.

Columbus Brewing Company Interior

The brewhouse is much smaller than the original location, which will allow the team to experiment with more specialized offerings and ingredients in smaller batches. There will be specific brews that are exclusive to the beer hall on a monthly basis, such as the new Kelton Pale Ale that was created for the grand opening.

CBC is excited to be a part of the Olde Towne East and Franklin Park neighborhoods, and is looking forward to forging new relationships and collaborations with the community. Future plans include beer pairing dinners, partnerships with East Market vendors, and hosting local experiences in the spacious back room. “It’s a great gathering place for people to get together and have a good time, in an area that doesn't really have as many hospitality groups as say, High Street," shares Magliocca. "It's been great to finally get the doors open, after so long in the making. We're thrilled to be in the area and see a diverse local crowd coming in to support it. It's awesome to see everyone there having such a good time."

To learn more, visit columbusbrewing.com