If you’re a fan of The Meters, then the term Zony Mash probably makes you want to get up and dance.
If you’re not a fan of the funk group, the title of their righteous B-Side album may yet be a cause for celebration. A new taproom, named after the classic album, is coming to New Orleans– and it’s taking up residence in a building just as historic. We introduce Zony Mash, a brewery, tasting room, and event space opening in the old Gem Theatre.
You may remember that earlier this year, the Gem Theatre’s most recent tenant, Wayward Owl, closed their taproom. It was a loss for the neighborhood, especially for regular Adam Ritter, who told the Advocate, “It was my watering hole after I would get done with work.”
Now, the theatre will be his work and watering hole in one. Ritter, along with brewing partner Mitchell Grittman, is updating the taproom to fit a new business.
Much like city favorite’s Miel, and Courtyard, Zony Mash will not distribute their beers. Attention will be devoted to their taproom brews instead. The grain will be milled in house, and drinkers can expect a heavy Belgian influence in their beer.
Grittman plans on keeping the offerings fresh and collaborative. A milk brown coffee ale, made in conjunction with Congregation Coffee, is an example of things to come.
Ritter hadn’t initially planned for anything more than artisanal brewing. However, the capacity for event-hosting was already in place. Becoming a venue made sense. Live entertainment permits are in the works for the taproom stage, which will feature comedy, music, movies, and family entertainment. Additionally, a room overlooking the brewery floor will be available for private events.
Zony Mash will offer table service, with food coming from a yet-to-be-named partner. Renovations on the Gem Theatre are currently underway, including a wall of windows, a lit parking lot, and a new eye-catching facade intended to draw in the traffic from Broad Street. Ritter hopes to open a beer garden outdoors by the end of the year. Zony Mash will open daily. We can’t wait to get in and dance.
Have any restaurant, brewery, or event tips? Email them to brich@riverbeats.life
Featured Image: Eater.NewOrleans
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