Phoenix Taproom and Kitchen opens up doors to largest self-pour taproom in the Midwest

EAU CLAIRE — This week, a local business has opened its doors for customers to come check out a regional record.

The Phoenix Taproom and Kitchen is home to a total of 72 different self-pour taps ranging between light and dark beers, seltzers, ciders, non-alcoholic drinks and more, which many are saying is the most in the Midwest. The taproom is located just off of Graham Avenue in downtown Eau Claire.

Just in time for this year's Fourth of July celebrations, Phoenix Taproom and Kitchen is holding its grand opening week from now until Sunday.

Courtney Hanson, marketing and events manager, said this space was created by Brad and Bre Hansen.

“They basically went to a self-pour business and thought about how cool it would be to bring one to the Eau Claire area,” said Hanson. “They actually did a lot of research for this business. They went to self-pour rooms all around the U.S., talked to the owners there and one of the number one things they heard from people was that more taps was what they wanted.”

While the business did face challenges before its opening, Hanson said it is very exciting now that the taproom is now open after a year of construction. The grand opening weekend, full of raffles and social media contests, is a way to thank the community for coming out to support them.

As for the name, Hanson said Phoenix Taproom and Kitchen references a new start for the space that was formerly a bank and also references its roots in Eau Claire with places like Phoenix Park.

Furthermore, she said the business is still working towards some additions. The roughly 4,000-square-foot patio is their next big priority, with hopes that the community could see it finished and in use by August.

“We really want it to become a community staple,” said Hanson. “This is a place where you can come no matter what you like to drink and you can enjoy and experience it with people.”