Bushwakker Brewpub: Marking 25 years of pouring pints in the Warehouse District
Palates have changed among Regina beer drinkers and this pub has led the journey
For almost 25 years, Bushwakker Brewpub has been pouring tasty pints, as well as being a showcase for Saskatchewan music and art.
"If people had only one day to come to Regina, and they wanted a good taste of what Regina's all about, they could come to Bushwakker," says Grant Frew, the bar manager.
We try to wave that banner for all Saskatchewan breweries- Grant Frew, Bushwakker bar manager
He's been a part of the popular Warehouse District hangout since a few weeks after it opened in 1991. It's founder, Bev Robertson, decided to go commercial with his passion for brewing craft beer.
Together Frew, Robertson and staff introduced a conservative city to new flavours and colours of beer.
"It was a learning curve for us and the public," said Frew.
Now Bushwakker is gearing up to celebrate its big anniversary.
Frew is proud of being a pioneer. Rather than look at the newcomers as competition, though,
he actually features other specialty beers from all over the province. He say it is good for tourism.
"We try to wave that banner for all Saskatchewan breweries," Said Frew.
The brew pub's best seller is Northern Lights lager. But since Regina palates are more sophisticated today, many are willing to step out onto a spicy limb.
"One of the oddest beers we produce is our Screaming Mosquito Chili beer." Frew says it's infused with hot peppers and definitely a niche product.
Frew is thrilled to see the revitalization of the Warehouse District. But as the community evolves, he says Bushwakker stays with the basics: good food, good beer, and good service.
"We stick to our guns," Frew said.