One of Portland’s Most Iconic Brewpubs Just Shuttered

One of Portland’s iconic, old-school breweries, Widmer Brothers is replacing its long-running brewpub with a taproom and event space, at 955 N Russell St. The Widmer Brothers restaurant is now closed, but a temporary taproom is currently operating in a portion of the former brewpub; the rest of the venue is undergoing a remodel, with plans to reopen as a brand-new taproom in spring 2018.

The temporary Widmer Brothers taproom occupies a long narrow space — most of the venue is blocked off by a wall for the remodel (see below) — serving brews from its new small-scale pilot brewery as well as a handful of snacks (also see below).

The Widmer overhaul puts renewed focus on its beers. The forthcoming taproom will expand brewery tour offerings, sell merchandise, and host beer events, from brewer talks to private event rentals. But there will still be food options in the summer: Widmer confirms its pop-up pub, which debuted in an empty lot across the street from the brewpub in summer 2017 with a handful of food carts, plans to return during the warmer months.

This is the latest shake up in the Portland beer scene. Amnesia Brewing recently announce it is closing; Ross Island Brewing is up for sale after less than a year; and The Commons Brewery shuttered this fall.

Here are photos of the old Widmer Brothers brewpub for posterity. And here’s the temporary taproom and its snacks menu:

Facebook/Widmer Brothers

Facebook/Widmer

• Widmer Brothers [Official]
• Widmer Closes Pub and Restaurant for a Concept Refresh [New School Beer]