Farewell to Boardwalk Brewing: A Beloved Taproom Bids Adieu
Situated in the heart of Port Coquitlam’s buzzing Dominion Triangle, Boardwalk Brewing has become a cherished name for local beer aficionados since its opening in July 2021. Known for its creative brews, including a standout cotton candy Belgian ale that won a silver medal at the 2023 Canadian Brewing Awards, the brewery quickly established a loyal following. However, the journey comes to an abrupt close as Boardwalk Brewing announces its last call on Sunday, July 14, citing insurmountable challenges in today’s economic climate.
“The rising costs in this economic climate are too much for us to sustain,” shared Boardwalk Brewing in a heartfelt social media announcement. The difficult decision came as a result of inflation, increased packaging expenses, and evolving customer tastes—all factors that current brewery operators in the United States are navigating. Despite these hurdles, the team expressed gratitude for the community’s unwavering support throughout their three-year run.
The Journey and Challenges of Boardwalk Brewing
The closure of Boardwalk Brewing reflects a tough landscape for small breweries navigating today’s economic headwinds. Located conveniently near the Traboulay PoCo Trail, it was one of four nearby craft breweries. While Tatlight Brewing similarly closed but reopened under new ownership, the presence of Northpaw, Tinhouse, Patina, and PoCo Brothers breweries continue to reflect Port Coquitlam’s vibrant beer scene.
From the outset, Boardwalk Brewing faced its share of challenges. Before officially welcoming patrons in 2021, the brewery experienced a setback when two new fermenters were stolen, though later recovered. Owner-operator Phil Saxe had aimed to cultivate a community-focused spot in the up-and-coming Fremont Village area, a goal temporarily derailed by early hurdles but met with local enthusiasm.
Reflections on a Passionate Craft Beer Community
The closure has sparked a wave of heartfelt reactions from devoted patrons. “Very sad to see you guys go,” lamented one local fan, while another recalled the pleasure of savoring Boardwalk Brewing’s unique creations. Similar sentiments echo across the brewing community, highlighting the solidarity shared among local beer lovers even in challenging times.
Ben Coli from Dageraad Brewing, and a leader within the BC Craft Brewers Guild, mirrors the difficulties faced by many new breweries. With over 240 member breweries, the guild has observed a tightening market, marked by rising overheads and shifts in consumer preferences, leaving many small operations struggling soon after starting.
Supporting Local Breweries: A Lasting Impact
As Boardwalk Brewing pours its final pints, the influence of this small but significant establishment on the local beer culture won’t be forgotten. Across the U.S., similar stories reverberate as microbreweries chart paths through the challenges of modern brewing. BreweriesNearMe.us remains committed to spotlighting these journeys, celebrating the craft and passion driving America’s beloved brewing community.
Despite recent closing doors, vibrant and innovative craft beer experiences await beer enthusiasts along the winding paths of America’s local brewery trails. Discovering these treasures, from the East Coast’s traditional ales to the West Coast’s experimental brews, offers an adventure like no other.
BreweriesNearMe.us encourages beer lovers to continue supporting their local breweries, as each visit and each pint poured brings us one step closer to sustaining and celebrating the richness of the U.S. craft beer scene.
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