News Summary
Lombardi Brewing Co. has launched its flagship taproom in Milwaukee after three months of renovations. Located at 2200 W. Mt Vernon Ave, the brewery aims to become a notable player in the local craft beer scene, following the closure of City Lights Brewing earlier this year. The taproom opened to the public with plans to showcase a variety of beer styles and enhance the patio area in the future. Lombardi Brewing, co-owned by John Lombardi, is currently transitioning to its own brewing operations amidst some operational challenges.
Milwaukee – Lombardi Brewing Co. has officially opened its flagship taproom after completing three months of extensive renovations. The new establishment is positioned at 2200 W. Mt Vernon Ave. in Milwaukee’s Menomonee Valley neighborhood, in a space previously occupied by City Lights Brewing Co.
City Lights Brewing closed its doors earlier this year after eight years of operation due to various challenges that made continuing business unsustainable. With the taproom now operational, Lombardi Brewing Co. aims to establish itself as a key player in the local craft beer scene.
The taproom officially opened to the public today at 3 p.m. and will remain open throughout the weekend, inviting patrons to experience its newly revamped interior. While the initial renovation focuses on the taproom itself, additional plans for enhancing the patio area are slated to begin in early 2026.
Lombardi Brewing Co., founded in 2015, is co-owned by John Lombardi, the grandson of the legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi, alongside partners Amanda Gethers and Tim Kunze. Until now, the company had primarily operated as a contract brewer and is currently transitioning to its own brewing operations.
Despite the excitement surrounding the taproom opening, the company faces some hurdles in operationalizing its brewing system. Lombardi Brewing’s brewing operations are currently impaired, and the company is seeking professional assistance to restore the brewing system to functionality. The company anticipates being able to brew beer by winter, but until those repairs are confirmed, they will rely on beer produced at District 1 Brewing located in Stevens Point.
In the coming months, Lombardi Brewing plans to showcase a variety of beer styles at the taproom, which will include IPAs and other options. The brewing team intends to leverage both their facility and the capabilities at District 1 Brewing to produce beers for both brands. In terms of food offerings, Lombardi Brewing has applied for a food dealer’s license, but specific menu items have yet to be disclosed.
As the new taproom settles in, the company’s social media platforms will provide further updates regarding operations and a finalized menu, ensuring that patrons are informed about their options as Lombardi Brewing carves out its niche in the Milwaukee beverage market.
Overall, the opening of Lombardi Brewing Co.’s flagship taproom marks a significant development in Milwaukee’s craft beer landscape, keeping the legacy of the Lombardi name alive while ushering in a new era of local brewing culture.
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Additional Resources
- BizTimes: Lombardi Brewing’s Milwaukee Taproom Opens Today
- JSONline: Lombardi Brewing Company Grand Opening
- OnMilwaukee: Lombardi Brewing Opening
- Urban Milwaukee: Lombardi Brewing Plans for Milwaukee Brewery
- Wikipedia: General Information
- Encyclopedia Britannica: General Information
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