Well 80 Brewhouse was opened in 2016, drawing on the rich brewing history of Olympia and Leopold Schmidt. Couple that with the excellent beer brewing water provided by Artesian wells found on the property and a proven local restauranteur in Chris Knudson and you have a recipe for success.
According to owner and Director of Operations, Knudson, “There are 50 or so brewpubs within driving distance from Olympia, so we knew we had to set ourselves apart with great food, served in a family friendly atmosphere.” He went on to say, “At Well 80, we pride ourselves on local hospitality and want our customers to enjoy the ambiance, staff and food equally.”
Everybody can find a spot at Well 80. The restaurant and brewhouse easily accommodates 20-somethings out on the town but, also a 40-year old parent. Knudson said, “I am a parent of two children, six and eight, and I wanted to build a place where families could go and the adults could still enjoy themselves with a great beer and delicious food.”
Surviving during a pandemic took some help from PPE loans and grants, as well tapping into the resiliency of Knudson’s other two well established Casa Mia restaurants. As a new restaurant, Well 80 faced higher overhead and a newer customer base. Knudson and his team got creative with their take-out menus and offered delivery.
Outdoor seating played an expanded role which will likely be utilized year-round. The existing front sidewalk patio with heaters saw the addition of clear curtains that enclosed the area and blocked out the weather, creating a toasty greenhouse effect. And now the Alley seating is larger and has heaters. The huge roll up doors at the front of the restaurant are wide open everyday rain or shine, where tables are spaced out and the high ceilings allow for lots of air flow.
Located in downtown Olympia, Well 80 Brewhouse is open with indoor and outdoor seating, plus takeout.
Well 80
514 4th Avenue E, Olympia
well80.com
EMILY HAPPY