Columbia’s Beloved Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse to Close After Nearly 30 Years of Service

Columbia Says Goodbye to a Local Legend: Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse to Close After Nearly 30 Years

Columbia, get ready to say *farewell* to a beloved local treasure! The Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse, known as Columbia’s very first micro-brewery restaurant, will close its doors later this month after nearly three decades of delightful dining and craft beer enjoyment. The announcement was made through a heartfelt Facebook post on Friday morning, causing quite a stir within the community.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

The news hits hard: the brewery’s Main Street location at 900 Main St. will officially shut down after December 28th. Founder Kevin Varner personally penned the announcement, stating, “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.” He went on to thank the community for allowing Hunter-Gatherer to be part of their lives.

While this chapter is coming to a close, the Hunter-Gatherer Hangar, located at 1402 Jim Hamilton Blvd. near the Jim Hamilton – LB Owens Airport, remains open and ready to serve patrons. “While we are sad to see this chapter of the original HG come to a close, please know that the Hangar location is still going strong,” Varner reassured fans.

A Legacy of Craft Beer and Comfort Food

Since its establishment in **1995**, Hunter-Gatherer has been a beacon for craft beer lovers and foodies alike, renowned for its unique in-house brews like the Hazy IPA, Gravity IPA, and pale ales. The cozy ambiance of the restaurant, with its dark wood decor, has made it a go-to spot for casual dates and family outings. Diners have indulged in delicious offerings such as shrimp and grits, hand-cut fries burgers, and goat cheese salads. It’s no surprise that the closing announcement tugged at the heartstrings of many!

Community Reaction and Nostalgic Memories

The closure announcement sparked an overwhelming response on social media, attracting more than 325 reactions and 120 comments within just the first hour! Many loyal customers took to the comments section to express their distress. One fan shared, “This place has been my extended living room for decades, and where I learned to appreciate craft beer.” Another sentiment echoed similar emotions: “This will be a huge loss for all of us who love high quality food and beer in a casual, friendly setting.”

Local influencer and Columbia mainstay Tracie Broom shared her thoughts, saying she considers the brewery a cherished place for friendships over the years, labeling it “an institution” that will be *very missed*.

What’s Next for the Community?

As Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse closes this chapter, it also opens the door for new memories at the Hangar location. While it’s tough to see the original site close, patrons are being encouraged to continue supporting the business that transformed Columbia’s dining and craft beer scene.

So if you’re a fan of Hunter-Gatherer, make sure you stop by the Main Street location before the last call on December 28th. Let’s send off this local legend with all the love it deserves! Raise a glass, share a meal, and reminisce about the incredible memories made at one of Columbia’s finest spots. Cheers!