USA, VA: Bedlam Brewing suddenly ceases operations

The warm heat from the wood-fired oven and the heavy brews from Bedlam Brewing are no more as of last Friday, November 29, according to a Facebook post.

The brewery, located in Staunton, took to its social media page after the Thanksgiving holiday to make the announcement it would be closed effective immediately.

"As we approach the holidays and take some time to spend with friends and family and I’ve somehow managed a little for introspection," Owner Mike McMackin wrote in the post on the brewery's Facebook page. "I have taken a good, long look at what I’m doing and how I’m spending my time and I’ve made some important decisions regarding my direction."

According to the post, McMackin has been dealing with some health issues, which was one of the reasons in closing the restaurant.

"As I sat on Thanksgiving Day surrounded by friends and family it dawned on me how little of my time is spent this way. A small business is difficult and my hours are more than long- I knew this going in and really haven’t regretted my choice," the post said. "Nor do I regret this one, though it is with some sadness that I make this announcement. Bedlam Brewing is closing effective immediately.

"I would like to thank everyone who has come through our door," the post continued. "I’ve made so many new friends, shared many a laugh, and raised more than a few pints. So with a tear in my eye but a smile on my face as I think of you all, I say my farewell."

The brewery and restaurant opened in 2017 at the north end of Staunton.

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McMackin renovated the restaurant, which used to be Ma and Pa's pizza on Augusta Street. He hand-built a 25-seat walnut bar and brewed his own beer including porters, stouts, IPAs and more. The restaurant made wood-fired pizzas and sourced food from local farms.

Patrons took to the brewery's Facebook page to send their regrets of closing.

"Absolutely loved your beer and your company," Michelle Hupman posted. "Family is everything, so my heart goes out to you and yours and kudos on putting them first! Best of luck and wishing you all the happiness this world has to offer!"

01 December, 2019