The Blue Ridge Taphouse is set to open in October in the former Leonardo’s Pizzeria & Bistro location on Main Street, according to owners Crystal and Warren Lenehan. The new venue aims to offer a space for adults in the Stuart area and beyond to enjoy craft beers and food.
Crystal Lenehan said the inspiration for the taphouse came from the couple’s travels and love for exploring different beers. “Warren is from New Hampshire, where taphouses are popular. We noticed there was nothing like that in our community, so we saw an opportunity to bring something new to Main Street,” she said.
The Lenehans also operate the Buckin Good Eats & Lemonade LLC food trailer, which is set up at Tractor Supply. Crystal Lenehan explained that the idea for the taphouse grew from their existing business. “We were looking for ways to expand since the community already enjoys our food. After seeing the space, we could see the potential for this new venture,” she said.
Warren Lenehan views the taphouse as a natural extension of their business. “We seem to grow a little each year,” he said.
Crystal Lenehan added that their culinary journey began with a hotdog cart, then moved to a horse trailer, and now they’re venturing into a brick-and-mortar location. “Now, we’re trying something new with a physical location,” she said.
The taphouse will cater to adults looking for an affordable yet enjoyable experience. “We do a lot for kids in the community, which I love, but we wanted a space for date nights with good drinks and affordable food,” Crystal Lenehan said.
The taphouse will feature a fast-casual model where customers can dine in or take out. Orders will be placed at the bar, with food served in disposable containers. “You won’t need to tip waitstaff,” Crystal Lenehan said. “You’ll use a pager to get your food, or you can pick it up if you’re in your car.”
Initially, the taphouse will offer eight taps, with a focus on Virginia-based brands. The menu will include lemonade flights and other alcoholic beverages, along with food items like smash burgers, wings, meatball sliders, pretzels with beer cheese, and more. The eatery also may introduce weekly specials and transition some popular items from their food trailer.
The food trailer will be used only for special events or festivals moving forward. “Our followers have requested that we continue offering some of the food we served from the trailer,” Crystal Lenehan said.
The taphouse will operate with limited seating due to the building’s size, but there are plans for outdoor seating and a potential beer garden in the future. Although specific opening dates have not been set, the taphouse expects to be open at least five days a week, with current hours planned from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., subject to change.
For more details, visit Facebook.com/BlueRidgeTaphouse.
