USA, VA: Solace Outpost opens brewery in Falls Church

Solace Outpost, a brewery and food concept in the former Mad Fox Brewing Company space at 444 West Broad Street in Falls Church, has opened, Patch.com reported on June 21.

Solace Brewing Company co-founder Jon Humerick told Patch the soft opening was Wednesday, June 17 after a Tuesday, June 16 preview for residents above the restaurant. Sterling-based Solace Brewing Company runs the beer operation, while the restaurant group behind Blackfinn Ameripub runs the food concept called Sauced.

"The location was ideal for us being right on Route 7," said Humerick. "We had been looking for some time for a second location."

The Solace Outpost team started looking at the location late last year and signed a lease in early 2020. The opening was scheduled for May 1 before the pandemic delayed the plans. Mad Fox Brewing Company had closed in July 2019.

Solace Outpost's Sauced concept focuses on "pies, thighs and fries." Diners can find a selection of thin crust pizzas or create their own. Chicken thighs come in classic or Nashville hot style with a choice of dipping sauces. Fries are available in five styles, including beer cheese with bacon and funnel cake fries.

The Solace Outpost brewing operation currently has four beers made on site, and a fifth beer is planned this week. Humerick says the Falls Church location allows Solace Brewing Company to try experimental small batches. Other drink offerings are beers from the brewing company's Sterling facility, wines and mixed drinks. A fifth beer brewed on site was planned for Monday, June 22. However, distribution won't happen out of the Falls Church brewery.

The new concept includes indoor and outdoor seating, and a game room with arcade games. At least while Falls Church is under the governor's phase two reopening stage, the game room will not be open. A decision on the game room will be based on future reopening guidelines.

There are safety guidelines in place during the pandemic, including single-use menus, increased sanitizing and hand sanitizer at entrances. Takeout is available by phone, and online ordering will be available at a later time.

A grand opening celebration isn't planned for now because of the pandemic. Solace Outpost will also plan live music and small festival events once restrictions are completely lifted.

On the support from the local community, Humerick said, "Everyone's been so friendly and welcoming, and we're excited to be part of that community now."

Hours are 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

24 June, 2020