Not every business hits the magic 25 year number, but a local institution has.
As The Waukesha Freeman reports, Delafield Brewhaus got its start thanks to a love of craft beer. “The original owners just had a passion for beer,” said General Manager Eric Knutson. After traveling to different breweries and pubs, they decided to bring that experience to their own backyard. Managing Investor Bob Flemming was determined to make it happen—even when his wife called the idea “crazy.” His response? “Good, I’m gonna do it.”
One of the things that sets Delafield Brewhaus apart is its “brewing in your face” concept. Instead of hiding the brewing process in the back, their massive floor-to-ceiling brewing system is front and center in the dining area. Head Brewer Bill Weishapple recalls that when the brewery first opened, even a federal agent from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was thrown off by the setup. “It was so ahead of its time that the guy from the government didn’t know what to do,” Weishapple joked.
Beyond its eye-catching brewery setup, Delafield Brewhaus has made a name for itself with award-winning beers—over 20 and counting. They’ve experimented with creative blends, like a raspberry ale mixed with a chocolatey stout for a truffle-like experience and a peanut butter porter that, when sipped alongside a strawberry beer, tastes just like a PB&J.
It’s not just about the beer, though—the food has been just as consistent. The asiago artichoke dip has been made the same way for 25 years, and they’re known for their hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and wood-fired pizza.
So what’s the secret to lasting 25 years in the ever-changing restaurant scene? According to Knutson, it’s simple: “We’re proud of what we do, and I think we’re pretty doggone good at it.”
Want to celebrate with them? Check out their 25th-anniversary events at Delafield Brewhaus.
