Papago Brewing, which closed its acclaimed taproom in Scottsdale in 2017 shortly after being bought out by Huss Brewing, is launching an all-new taproom at Mesa Riverview in early 2023.
The location: It will take over the 2,100-square-foot, 104-seat space formerly home to The Brass Tap, which closed Saturday after eight years.
The history: Papago was founded in 2001 as a bottle shop, home-brew supply store, and tasting room.
- It grew into a Valley landmark for craft beer aficionados, serving 30 beers on tap plus a full food menu, and hosting numerous notable beer events.
- It launched its own line of beers, including its popular flagship Orange Blossom Ale.
New owners: The Papago brand was bought by Tempe-based Huss Brewing, which had been contract-brewing Papago’s beers, in 2016.
- Huss was launched in 2013 by brewer Jeff Huss and his wife, Leah, who was a co-owner of Papago and its general manager for 14 years.
- Huss continues to brew a line of Papago beers, including Orange Blossom Ale.
The quote: ‘‘It’s always been my dream to reintroduce the Papago Brewing experience,” Leah Huss says. “Not a rehash or a replica of the old taproom, but a brand-new iteration. I really wanted to envision what Papago Brewing would look like in 2023, so we’ll still have elements of a traditional European-style beer pub and vintage furnishings, yet very fresh and forward-looking.’’
The new taproom: Like The Brass Tap, the Papago taproom will have 60 beers on tap, plus packaged beers to go.
- The tap list will include the return of some past Papago favorites, such as Elsie’s Milk Stout and Hopago IPA.
- The taproom eventually will offer a food menu of ‘‘bar bites,’’ although not right away.
