CONTACT:
Nicole Heslip
616-889-2822
nicolemheslip@gmail.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2018
Allegan, Mich. -- A new brewpub has opened in downtown Allegan as part of a four-phase revitalization project.
The second generation of a local family dairy farm is opening Schaendorf Brewing Company to provide customers with farm-to-table cuisine and handcrafted beer.
Co-owner Ben Schaendorf operates Schaendorf Cattle Company and believes the brewpub will be a gathering place for the region. “We saw this as an opportunity to give back to our local community, feature beef raised in our backyard and highlight the diversity of what’s grown in Michigan,” he says.
General Manager Randy Herzog says Schaendorf Brewing Company will offer local flavors with modern flair, “We’re using farm fresh beef for some in-house specialties including corned beef and smoked brisket, as well as hand cutting fries and creating several other house-made items.”
Phase I of the brewery included re-opening the restaurant at 412 Water Street with a new menu at the end of September. Construction is now underway in the adjoining west wing of the building for Phase II, which will become an on-site beer production facility that will be led by Schaendorf’s brother-in-law Kyle Heslip. “On a seven-barrel system, we’ll be able to produce regular new releases and one-of-kind, barrel-aged beers with the intent of offering to-go sales for patrons,” he explains.
Once complete, the brewery side of the restaurant will open with customer seating while the current dining room will close for renovations. “We will be opening a market space that will feature specialty food items including to-go beer and Schaendorf Cattle Company beef,” says Nicole Schaendorf, who manages administrative operations for the facility.
The final phase of the brewery will be restoring Rebekah Hall on the second floor for special events. Serving the community of Allegan for decades, Rebekah Hall was named after the female arm of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which once used the space. “It’s been at least 30 years since the hall has been open to the public and it is our goal to refurbish it, offering the space for weddings, family celebrations and corporate events,” says communications specialist Nicole Heslip.
Before the brewery is operational, the restaurant will feature Tapistry Brewing, where Kyle Heslip is the current head brewer, and other Michigan craft beers. “We’re farmers, brewers and food lovers,” says Ben Schaendorf. “Check back often to try what’s new on the menu and see how we’re progressing.”
Read more about our opening the Grand Rapids Business Journal article here!
