Brew Bridge is trading in its Texas-style barbecue for brick oven pizza and an expanded menu. The rebrand is set to roll out in early October, just after the completion of Owensboro Times Pizza Week.
The brewery will fire up its new brick ovens during Pizza Week with its BBQ Brisket Pizza.
The brewery, located in the former Barnaby’s building at 800 West 2nd Street, opened its doors in July 2020, in the middle of the pandemic. Co-owner David Haynes said the team didn’t originally expect to have a kitchen, but changing regulations required food service for bars to operate.
Brew Bridge’s menu initially featured pub fare such as burgers and wings, then shifted to barbecue in late 2021. While the smoked meats drew fans from out of town, Haynes said many locals were puzzled by the nontraditional approach.
“Everybody from out of town loved it. Everybody from in town was super confused by it, because it wasn’t Owensboro style,” he said.
Haynes said the decision to pivot to pizza comes from both passion and opportunity.
“We just have a passion for pizza, quite honestly. And also Owensboro loves pizza, as evidenced by the number of pizza joints we have,” Haynes said. “But we also looked at the reality of it, and we’ve had really good brick oven, wood-fired pizza. There really isn’t that option in town, so we wanted to bring something new.”
The new menu will feature wood-fired pizzas that cook in approximately three minutes, along with burgers, sliders, gluten-free options, power bowls, and an expanded weekend brunch. Specialty pies, including a hot honey pepperoni, will be available by the slice or whole pie, with carryout and delivery options through DoorDash.
“We’re really being aware of food allergies and that sort of thing,” Haynes said, noting that cauliflower crusts will be available.
Haynes said the change aligns with Brew Bridge’s identity as a community gathering space. The brewery features a large patio, frequent events, and proximity to activities such as an escape room, golf simulators, and karaoke rooms.
“It’s just a great place to come. It could be casual. You don’t even have to eat. Bring your animals on the patios,” Haynes said.
Brew Bridge is closed on Mondays. Hours are 3-10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m.–midnight Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday.
