We've been hearing this question a lot lately. And with good reason. You see, we had said that around this time we'd be beginning our series of opening events. And here we are, nearing the end of March, and...we're not quite ready.

When we were contract brewing, people used to ask us: "When will the next batch of [insert your favorite, delicious Bierkeller beer here] be ready?" And we'd answer: "When it's ready." Back then we had the luxury of being able to bide our time a bit. We wanted everything to be perfect. (We're kinda weird that way.) And so we wouldn't rush it. 

Now, we're rushing it. Not the beer. But the build-out. But...we're still not ready. At least not here at the end of March.

When we believe we will be ready is May. That's when we now have our soft opening, VIP and press (and resident) parties, and grand opening/Richtfest scheduled. This, too, depends on other things being ready. Like steam condensers we didn't know we needed, and circuit breakers stuck in customs at the Port of Charleston getting freed up by the agents.

But we digress. 

For now, we plan on opening in early to mid May. And we are doing our damndest to get us all there. Here. Under the greening trees and beside the rushing river(s) and up to the open beer/food counter.

We apologize for the delay. Truly.

In the meantime, we have some surprises for you insiders.

This week, we'll be opening up orders for Stammtische. What are Stammtische? They are the way traditional German Bierhalls and Biergartens reward their most loyal customers. With a spot (actually a full table, or Tisch for the regulars, or Stamm(kunden)) that's reserved for you and your group at a specific time, all the time. Like, with a fancy plaque announcing as much. In the location of your choice (in the Bierhall, Biergarten, or Bistro setting). And a spot for your favorite mug in a locked display case on site. And discounts. Etc. Etc.

So let's consider the Stammtische the first in our series of pre-opening events, shall we? We'll be taking reservations from you all who've supported us so loyally for so long soon. Look for the announcement this coming week, and start picking out your spot so that when we finally throw open the gates and doors, you'll be ready to settle right in with your favorite, delicious Bierkeller beer and your old friends and Bierkeller family. 

We can't wait, Columbi-ja. Prost!