A longtime St. Paul brewery is preparing to close its doors this weekend, bringing an end to nearly 11 years under its current ownership. But unlike many recent brewery closures, this one is not necessarily the end of the business.
Lake Monster Brewing prepares for transition
Lake Monster Brewing will close its taproom at 550 Vandalia St. in St. Paul on Sunday, August 30. The brewery has operated from the Vandalia Tower complex for nearly 11 years, making it a well-established part of the city’s craft beer scene.
The closure comes as the brewery transitions to new ownership. Co-founder and brewmaster Matt Lange said the founders believe the time is right to hand the business over and bring “fresh perspectives and energy” to the space.
The new owners have already taken over the business, although their plans for the brewery have not yet been announced.
Brewery remains profitable
The transition is notable because Lake Monster is not closing because it is failing financially. Lange said the brewery remains profitable, but the owners felt it was the right time to move on.
The decision comes during a challenging period for Minnesota’s craft brewing industry, which has seen breweries close, change ownership, or restructure as the market continues to evolve.
For Lake Monster customers, that means the familiar taproom will disappear in its current form, but the location could soon have a new identity.
Final weekend planned
The taproom will be closed to the public Saturday, August 29, for a private event before reopening for its final day of service under the current ownership on Sunday, Aug. 30. The brewery’s event calendar lists a La Chiva de San Juan food truck at the taproom from 1 to 7 p.m. that day.
For longtime customers, Sunday’s closing marks the end of an almost 11-year chapter — but potentially the beginning of another one for the St. Paul brewery.
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