News Summary
Wormtown Brewery’s taproom on Shrewsbury Street is undergoing significant renovations, expanding from 5,500 to 10,000 square feet. Although temporarily closed, the improvements will enhance the customer experience, featuring a new design and collaborations with local restaurants. The expansion marks Wormtown’s commitment to thriving in the craft beer market while maintaining its core beer production. This renovation is set to coincide with the brewery’s 11th birthday, symbolizing growth and future aspirations for the beloved Worcester establishment.
Worcester – Wormtown Brewery’s taproom on Shrewsbury Street is undergoing significant renovations as it prepares to expand its space from 5,500 square feet to approximately 10,000 square feet. The taproom has been closed since July 3, 2024, as part of this construction project, which aims to enhance the customer experience and accommodate more patrons.
Speculation regarding the brewery’s future arose online when the closure was announced, leading some to question whether Wormtown had relocated from its longtime address at 72 Shrewsbury Street. However, Wormtown remains under the ownership of the Hendler Family Brewing Co., the parent company of Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers, which acquired the brewery in April 2024. This move is intended to ensure the brand’s longevity and growth within the competitive craft beer market.
The renovation is set to introduce new design elements and features, including a larger, restaurant-like atmosphere. This involves taking down and reconstructing a brick wall behind the bar, facilitating a more expansive layout. Updates on the reopening date are expected soon, although construction is still described as being in “heavy” progress.
Since the Shrewsbury Street location has been temporarily closed, Wormtown’s Foxboro taproom has experienced an upsurge in business. During Patriots home games, this location opens early at 10 a.m., serving thousands of fans and offering a special menu of hot dogs, burgers, and bratwurst. The flagship beer, Be Hoppy, has been particularly popular among game attendees. With five televisions broadcasting NFL games and dedicated coverage of the RedZone channel, the Foxboro taproom is meeting increased demand in the absence of the Worcester location.
Expansion and Future Plans
The expansion of the Shrewsbury Street taproom signifies Wormtown’s commitment to adapting to the evolving craft beer scene in Worcester. In addition to increased seating and a new kitchen, the renovations will allow for collaborations with local restaurants to host pop-up food events. The second floor of the new taproom is designed as a relaxed area, featuring foosball tables and the potential for more games, aiming to create a social atmosphere for patrons.
Artistic and Cultural Enhancements
The renovations will incorporate unique artistic elements, such as blue and white stained glass windows, along with murals and decor that pay homage to both Worcester and the Wormtown brand itself. This dedication to community and local culture reflects Wormtown’s pride in its heritage and the city it calls home.
Consistency Amid Change
Despite the changes underway, Wormtown’s core beer production has remained consistent. The brewery’s lineup largely remains unchanged, aside from minor adjustments in packaging and release schedules, even with some production team members relocating to Framingham after the Hendler family’s acquisition. Wormtown Brewery is also looking to expand into distilling alongside its brewing operations in the new taproom.
Looking Ahead
The grand opening of the renovated Shrewsbury Street taproom will coincide with Wormtown’s 11th birthday, marking a significant milestone for the brewery. This expansion is not merely an addition of space; it symbolizes the growth and future aspirations of Wormtown Brewery as it continues to forge its path in the competitive craft brewing industry.
In conclusion, Wormtown Brewery’s renovations and expansions reflect a commitment to enhancing the customer experience, fostering community connections, and adapting to the dynamic craft beer landscape. As updates on the new taproom’s progress become available, patrons and fans alike look forward to what promises to be an exciting new chapter for this beloved Worcester establishment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Telegram: Beyond Beer Amid Construction, Something’s Brewing at Wormtown
- Wikipedia: Wormtown Brewery
- Boston Magazine: Wormtown Brewery at Patriot Place
- Google Search: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Wormtown Brewery’s New Worcester Taproom
- Google Scholar: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Meet the New Wormtown Brewery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wormtown Brewery
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
