The Rivers Nightclub is in the middle of a transformation into a brewery.
(GLYNN BROTHEN / iNFOnews.ca)
April 08, 2014 - 2:24 PM
KAMLOOPS – The property known as the Rivers Nightclub will be re-opening its doors as a brewery this summer.
As a nightclub, it changed many names before closing its doors two years ago. David Beardsell and his wife, Anna-Marie haven’t decided on a new name yet, but know that 355 Landsdowne Street won’t be part of the club scene nor will it become a duplicate of the Noble Pig, which Beardsell used to co-own.
Beardsell who has a master’s degree in brewing said, “The focus of this project is beer and nothing but beer,” adding the menu won’t offer wine or mixed drinks, though a few food items will be available.
Consumer demand for fresh, non-chemical beer has grown since he started Bear Brewing in 1994, and there's a wide demographic in the interest.
“Palates are palates,” Beardsell said.
The previous owners of the 7,500 square foot location had issues in the past when dealing with a capacity limited to 280 guests. Rivers closed shortly after the owners’ application for expansion was denied by council.
Bearsell said after the re-model and addition of a tasting room, the brew house capacity will be limited to 80.
“It will have a very European sort of attitude to it... it’s going to be very casual” he said. The type of beers will be more Belgium-style or high alcohol. He plans to bottle in-house to make the product available to sell on site.
The brewery is set to re-open mid July.
Mike Marshall on the left and David Beardsell on the right.
(GLYNN BROTHEN / iNFOnews.ca)
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News from © iNFOnews, 2014