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South Street Brewery plans to close after 28 years

South Street Brewery plans to close after 28 years

South Street Brewery is seeking a new owner. Photo: Unsplash/Unsplash


CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW)- After 28 years of operation, downtown Charlottesville staple South Street Brewery will close its doors on April 6, though owner Taylor Smack said he is seeking a buyer to allow the business to potentially carry on.

“To our incredible community: we want to start by saying thank you,” the Brewery announced on its Facebook page. “It has been an honor to be your local gathering place.”

South Street is a well-loved site for pub fare, Sunday brunch and sports-watching one block up from the Downtown Mall. It has functioned as the headquarters for the Charlottesville area’s local fan club of the Buffalo Bills NFL franchise. 

Smack, who also runs Blue Mountain Brewery and Barrel House in Afton, bought South Street in July 2024.  He began his brewing career as an intern at South Street in 1999.

The post outlines that the leadership team intends to focus more on its “Nelson County roots” but intends to pass over the brewery to new ownership.  

“We are now looking for the next ambitious restaurateur or brewery to take the reins and lead South Street into its next era.” the Facebook post reads. 

 Patrons are invited to “share a story and enjoy a final drink” at the South Street location throughout the location’s final month of operation.  

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