Hoppers Brewing Co started in 2017, when a few mates who shared a passion for beer turned their sud-soaked dream of brewing their own booze into a reality. Based on the Gold Coast, the group honed their skills through contract brewing, leasing other brewery’s equipment and selling their product to other licensed venues. During this process, owners Tyler Wood, Colin Mcilroy and Ian Kennedy were looking for a space to call their own, and when the opportunity to take over 41 Crosby Road (formerly Fonzie Abbott brewery) popped up, the trio jumped at the offer.

Rest assured, those dependent on Fonzie Abbott’s caffeine-fuelled kick can still grab a warm brew from the original Fox Street factory. “Two of the three of us are from Brisbane, so it’s sort of a homecoming for us,” says Tyler. “We played footy on the Brothers fields and know the area well.” In a little less than a month, the space has transformed from Fonzie Abbott’s well-known charcoal, industrial exterior to a bright inviting white and green facade, with Hoppers Brewing Co putting their own unique stamp on the site. “We have really brought the space together with the community in mind,” says Tyler. “We want this venue to be a place where everyone feels welcome and connected.”

When stepping foot inside Hoppers, you are immediately hit with a wave of warmth and nostalgia, almost as if you are walking into a friends living room. The cosy space, which caters to around 60 punters, is decked-out with vintage furniture and eclectic decor, including several leather couches and recliners that will ensure you stay for an extended session. Those who prefer to sip in the sun can grab a spot in the beer garden, or perch up on the mezzanine for a more intimate ambiance. With a focus on supporting local, Hoppers Brewing Co’s walls are filled with local art, including an interactive graffitied mural and some beautiful charcoal prints.

When it comes to the jars, Hoppers is all about seasonal and traditional brews with no artificial additives or flavours and an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation and top-tier flavour. Boasting 14 taps, there is a palate-pleasing pint for everyone’s taste including the Crosby Crush (juicy pale ale), Seven Nil (German-inspired golden ale) and Night Tunnel (rich dark lager), plus a sumptuous sour, stout and ginger beer currently on rotation.

The distillery arm of the business, Wicked Spirits, offers a smooth gin and vodka, with a recently barrelled rum also on the horizon. Alongside the beers and spirits is a range of non-alcoholic options such as a kombucha from local brewery Magic Potion, as well as vino from the Gold Coast’s Witches Falls Winery. The Hoppers crew are in the process of curating a list of tasty tipples to complement their spirits, so be sure to keep an eye out for that in the near future.

While the booze dispensary is currently offering a variety of food-truck fare, Hoppers will soon introduce an elevated culinary offering in the form of a Japanese-inspired noshery called the Yak Shak. Specialising in yakitori skewers and other tantalising delights, the Yak Shak will bring a burst of flavours and textures that perfectly complement Hoppers’ craft beverages, from succulent chicken and beef skewers to mouth-watering vegetarian options.

Hoppers Crosby Road is now pouring and is hosting its grand opening this weekend! Head to our Stumble Guide for operating hours and further details. 

Image credit: Shirley Lam