As of today, Richbrau Brewing Company in downtown Richmond has closed its doors. Allegedly, the brewpub in Shockoe Bottom is bankrupt, and according to folks on the inside, it doesn’t have plans to reopen.
After turning its fortunes around under the aegis of owner Mike Byrne, Richbrau appeared to be going strong until the recent economic meltdown. The sprawling restaurant complex with multiple bars was known for its array of gaming options and flat-screen televisions, and as always, the fresh, locally brewed beer on tap.
Employees were aware that the brewpub had not been doing well in the revenue department, but it appears that many were not prepared for the extent of the damage. For all intents and purposes, it appears that the brewpub is kaput.
And as for reviving the beer? Outlook does not look good.
—
Stay tuned for a special feature on Richbrau coming soon.
7 comments
Comments feed for this article
February 19, 2010 at 2:32 pm
Edmond Medina
Yeah just heard this myself. Sad to see them go. Maybe someone will take the plunge and open a smaller brewpub there but under a different name.
February 19, 2010 at 4:23 pm
beilly
Their beer wasn’t very good.
February 19, 2010 at 4:42 pm
sos
It is sad that a local business has closed and all that you have to say is that their beer wasn’t very good? People have lost their jobs here. They may have trouble paying their rent this month or putting food on the table. And it is not like you can run out and find a job right away.
February 20, 2010 at 10:09 am
Beilly
You most certainly can find work if you have restaurant experience. And give these workers some credit; They could see the writing on the wall a long time ago.
In a city of this size, there’s simply no excuse for a brewery to fail. That company’s leadership had ten years to take advantage of the public’s growing enthusiasm for craft beer. But they just kept on brewing an inferior product. Were they being stubborn or just ignorant? I don’t know. But I know that they blew an incredible opportunity.
February 20, 2010 at 3:05 pm
J Betz
I used to do some work in there sexually on the regular in the 90s..Sad to see this..
March 2, 2010 at 5:21 pm
dpolk
wow j betz…lmao
April 14, 2010 at 1:50 pm
Raglan Fan
I feel very bad about failure. A very comfortable cozy place. Beer fine!
Many a nice memory. Came often from central NC to eat and walk around the area. Hope for a rebirth.