In 2018, two years after its inception, Parkersburg Brewing Company won a gold medal at the World Beer Cup, which is one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world. The esteemed award helped to put Parkersburg, WV, on the map. Beer enthusiasts worldwide recognized the small town as being home to the 2018 American Brown Ale, gold medal award winning brewery. The company has flourished and is continuing its commitment to promoting small businesses in West Virginia. Key owners of Parkersburg Brewing Company are now building upon their business learnings and principles by opening a new, upscale restaurant operation in Morgantown, WV.
Although the past few years have been difficult for small business owners, the Parkersburg Brewing Company team sees a light at the end of the tunnel. On March 29, 2022, Phoenix Public House, at The Pines Country Club, will open for business.
“It’s exciting and invigorating to see this type of growth in not only the West Virginia craft beer industry but also in the restaurant industry. The pandemic posed a great threat to so many small businesses, and we’re beyond thankful for the support from our communities to make our dream a reality,” says Michelle Hopkins, head of marketing and public relations at the Phoenix Public House LLC.
The Phoenix Public House will not only serve craft beer, including the World Beer Cup award winning Cell Block 304 American Brown Ale, but it will also deliver fine cuisine focused on using fresh and local ingredients. Executive Chef Erik Guerrero and General Manager John Wion bring their extensive culinary experience to create an upscale pub experience.
“We chose Parkersburg for the brewing company because our ownership team has roots in Parkersburg. We wanted to be part of revitalizing downtown Parkersburg to drive more foot traffic to the heart of the city. This newest venture, Phoenix Public House LLC, is in Morgantown for similar reasons. Walt and Lori Owens and Jim Hopkins and I are co-owners of the pub and reside in Morgantown,” says Hopkins. “We wanted to share our love of farm to fork cuisine and West Virginia craft beer pairing. We’re community driven and believe in supporting other local businesses. Other co-owners include John and Lynn Cox, Dan and Sherry Curtis, and Curt Tennant of Parkersburg.”
The new establishment will bring energy to Morgantown along with a diversified food scene. The Phoenix Public House will be open for lunch and dinner, and a brunch menu will be added in the near future. Learn more at www.phoenixpublichousellc.com or the Phoenix Public House Facebook page, and explore Parkersburg Brewing Company at www.parkersburgbrewing.com.
