Eugene, Oregon is becoming a popular city for breweries to open satellite locations, Spring 2024 will see the second location of Silver Falls Brewery open in the 5th Street Market area space, formerly home to long-running beer bar Tap & Growler. Breweries from across the state like Xicha Brewing, and Sunriver Brewing have successfully opened new locations in Eugene, while some locals like Ninkasi Brewing, Alesong, and Falling Sky Brewing have closed theirs.

Silver Falls Brewery was founded in 2015 in Silverton, Oregon. In 2019 they embarked upon a significant expansion to open an off-site brewery production space with a 10bbl brewhouse featuring a unique hybrid of direct fire and electric oil heating. Silver Falls launched with a 2 barrel electric nano system in co-owner/brewer Eric Druliner's garage, and it was relocated to become a pilot system.

The upcoming Silver Falls Brewery Barrel Room has been a glimmer in Druliner and co-owner Andrew Fox’s eyes since they began planning their big brewhouse expansion.

“This idea has been simmering in the background for a few years now obviously, waiting for the right moment in our business journey,” says Druliner. “We needed to reach a stage where we were not just capable but well-prepared to take on such an endeavor. This involved learning the intricacies of what works and what doesn't, delving into self-distribution, and establishing efficient systems – all while ensuring we had an exceptional team in place. We cannot emphasize enough how crucial it is to have an incredible staff which was a major part of our decision-making process.”

Tap & Growler had a pretty long run since its opening in 2013, original founders Colby Phillips and Patric Campbell sold it awhile back to focus on their other successful taphouses Beergarden in Eugene, and Public House in Springfield. Tap & Growler poured their last pints in October, almost exactly 10 years since they opened their doors. The relatively central location at 207 E 5th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401 is just north across the street from the 5th Street Public Market, and just east across the street from McKenzie Brewing (Steelhead Brewpub.)

Despite taking a couple of weeks trying to find reasons not to proceed, the understandably risk adverse Silver Falls owners decided to take the leap outside of their comfort zone, and are now charging full steam ahead.

“We had a comprehensive list of requirements for our new location, and when we stumbled upon the Eugene site, we recognized its tremendous potential. The area is simply fantastic – densely populated, with thriving neighboring businesses, and a space that echoes the uniqueness we've cultivated in Silverton.  The new location needed to be a destination, which we found.”

Although the Eugene taproom space is essentially turnkey, Silver Falls is still taking the time to make not only cosmetic changes but also adjustments to increase efficiency in the space, create a more inviting ambiance, and retrofit the kitchen for a new food plan. The location seats over 80 with both indoors and outdoors options in a family friendly environment. Silver Falls plans to keep it busy and operating 6 days a week Wednesday through Monday.

Tap & Growler gained early popularity in some part due to their 71 draft lines, the most in Eugene at the time, but these days that amount of draft in a small/mid-size space is almost more of a liability then a feature. Silver Falls plans to pair it down to a very respectable 24 draft lines that will showcase their own beers alongside a selection of guest cider and wine. Liquor won’t initially be a part of the plan, but that could change down the line.

The remodel will largely focus on the kitchen, with plans to double the size so they can work on a comprehensive food menu and elevated overall dining experience. Expect a fusion of traditional pub fare like burgers and fries, with a decided sway into New York deli-inspired options such as a hot pastrami sandwich which may make for a great replacement for the ones at the closing Falling Sky Pour House & Deli. Silver Falls Oak Room menu will also feature Italian pizzas, crafted with a touch of authenticity and designed for quick service, ideal for lively game days.

“The intention is to offer a well-rounded dining experience that complements the social atmosphere of our brewery,” says Druliner. Silver Falls is now on the search for a Chef and manager to join in on the adventure in Eugene.

Silver Falls has a goal to be able to open the Barrel House at 207 E 5th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401 for a soft opening during the first weekend of March, with a grand opening party to follow shortly after.