Let’s raise a glass.
Moustache Brewing Co. unveiled its newly expanded Riverhead tasting room Thursday.
The 1,400-square-foot tasting room is more than three times the size of its original 400-square-foot space — and not too far away either.
Co-owners Lauri and Matt Spitz signed the lease to take over the rest of the building that housed their Hallet Avenue operation in October 2017. The couple has been working tirelessly — occasionally putting in 21-hour days — to complete the year-long renovation, which increases their total footprint from 1,400 square feet to roughly 5,600 square feet.
The old tasting room has become extra storage and space for additional fermenters. The larger space not only gives guests more room to enjoy their beer, it allows the brewers flexibility and the ability to increase production. The other good news is that the tasting room can also be opened more than just weekends. Moustache Brewing Co. was typically closed to the public on beer-making days due to the limited space. Now production can happen while beer is being served.
“We could be in production 24/7 if we wanted now,” Matt said half-jokingly. “This is where we wanted to be for the past five years.”
Moustache fans will note the tasting room entrance has moved to the side of the building in the former automotive shop. Among the renovations were the addition of a large bar and 25 taps for wine, cider and, of course, beer. It retains the industrial feel and décor of its predecessor — those who frequented the old tasting room will recognize the funky and fun pieces in the new space.
“It was pretty grimy when we first got in here,” Lauri said. “It was a gut job and the blank slate we wished for.”
Moustache is celebrating the grand opening of its new tasting room all weekend long. On Friday, Oct. 5, the brewery will be opened from 3 to 8 p.m. It will open Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. And for those of you off from work for Columbus Day on Monday, the tasting room will be open from noon to 5 p.m.
What is a celebration without food? Mattitaco will be serving up bites on Friday and the Eat Me, Drink Me Truck will be on hand Saturday.
Moustache Brewing Co. is located at 400 Hallett Ave in Riverhead
