Barrio Brewing Company focuses on growth during the pandemic

For many, times have been tough since March and every local restaurant and business has found ways to deal with the current situation the best that they can.

Tucked away on Euclid and 16th Street, Barrio Brewing Company has seen its ebbs and flows over time and currently, there’s plenty to celebrate.

New year, new brew

Back in January, the brewery became the first employee-owned craft brewery in Arizona, and — with help from the community — has managed to retain most of its employees during the pandemic.

In addition, they’ve added two new senior staffers to the crew, both of which have a combined 24 years of hands-on experience in the craft beer industry.

“My brewing philosophy is simple,” Gary Fritze, Barrio’s new Brewery Operations Manager. “Cleanliness is rule number one, never cut corners, and keep pursuing that next great batch of beer.”

“For me, beer is about great experiences and connecting with our community,” said the brewery’s new Brand Specialist, Jeremy Storton. “That is something that Barrio has continued to strive for, and I am excited to be a part of this team and see what we can do next for the sake of great beer.”

Bites and beers promote happiness

Aside from the personnel changes at Barrio Brewing, they’ve also kicked off a new Happy Hour menu, featuring the long-standing $1 off beers and some recently added bites like the Tequila Cilantro Wings and Spinach Artichoke Dip.

“We’ve also added new items like our handmade Buffalo Chicken Rolls,” said Barrio Brewing’s COO, Jaime Dickman. “Which have tender grilled chicken tossed in our wing sauce with carrots and celery — rolled up tight in a pair of egg roll wrappers.”

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The brewers have also been busy experimenting with some new beers.

“We’ve got an Irish Red that is planned next for the taproom followed by our Vienna Lager,” said Dickman. “The Irish Red will be taproom only while the Vienna Lager will be made available through our distributor network so you can try it at your favorite bar or restaurant.“

The brewers also have a few more recipes up their sleeves, and you can expect to see them rolled out and on tap sometime this winter.

Barrio Brewing Co. is located at 800 E.16th St. For more information, visit barriobrewing.com.