Columbia’s Beloved Hunter-Gatherer Brewery to Close After 29 Years
It’s a bittersweet moment for the folks in Columbia as we prepare to bid farewell to a local treasure. Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse, the first micro-brewery restaurant in the city, will be closing its doors at 900 Main St. later this month after nearly three decades of serving up delicious food and delightful brews. This news was shared through an emotional Facebook post by the business on a recent Friday morning, sending waves of nostalgia and sadness through the community.
The Final Countdown
According to the post, Hunter-Gatherer’s Main Street location will stay open until December 28, giving loyal patrons a chance to soak in the cozy atmosphere one last time. Founder Kevin Varner expressed the bittersweet sentiment perfectly, saying, “It is with a sad and heavy heart that we announce the closing of our Main Street location. It has been an incredible privilege and a pleasure to host you over these 29+ years. We thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives over the years. It’s been a great run.”
A Lasting Legacy
Established in 1995, Hunter-Gatherer was a pioneer, becoming the very first micro-brewery in Columbia. Varner’s love for crafting English and American-style ales turned Hunter-Gatherer into a well-known staple in the Midlands region. Fans of the brewery have come to love signature brews like the in-house Hazy IPA, Gravity IPA, and pale ales that have helped define a thriving craft beer culture in the area.
Where Good Times Were Had
The Main Street location isn’t just known for its fantastic beers; it has also been a warm and inviting place for friends, family, and beer lovers alike. The dark wood interiors and cozy feel made it a go-to destination for date nights and gatherings. With mouthwatering offerings such as shrimp and grits, juicy burgers paired with hand-cut fries, and delightful goat cheese salads, there has been something for everyone!
Counting Down the Memories
As word of the closure spread across social media, the response was immediate and heartfelt. Within the first hour of the announcement, the post racked up over 325 reactions, more than 120 comments, and nearly 70 shares! Many customers took to the comments section to share their memories and to express their sadness. “This place has been my extended living room for decades,” one fan reminisced, while another said, “This will be a huge loss for all of us who love high quality food and beer in a casual, friendly setting.”
A Fond Farewell
Even among the mixed emotions, there’s excitement for the future. While the Main Street location may be shutting its doors, the Hunter-Gatherer Hangar location at 1402 Jim Hamilton Blvd. near the Jim Hamilton – LB Owens Airport is still in full swing, promising to carry on the legacy. Varner reassured fans that the Hangar location “is still going strong.”
As Columbia gets ready to say goodbye to this iconic establishment, it’s clear that the memories and experiences shared at Hunter-Gatherer will linger in the hearts of its patrons for years to come. So, as we approach the closing date, let’s raise a glass in tribute to a beloved institution that has served us well!
Mark Your Calendars
If you want to experience Hunter-Gatherer’s Main Street magic one last time, make sure to swing by before December 28. Whether it’s enjoying a favorite dish, reminiscing about good times with friends, or savoring that perfect pint of craft beer, make it a farewell to remember!
