Goodbye to Black Star Co-op Pub and Brewery

News Summary

North Austin bids farewell to the Black Star Co-op Pub and Brewery after 14 years of unforgettable community experiences. Known for its innovative, community-owned model, the brewpub announced its closure effective January 12, following a journey filled with ups and downs. Despite recent profits, the decision comes after thoughtful consideration of ongoing challenges. The closure marks the end of an era for many patrons who cherished the brewpub as a gathering place for good food, quality beer, and camaraderie.

Goodbye to a Local Legend: Black Star Co-op Pub and Brewery Closes Its Doors

In a heartfelt announcement that has brought a wave of nostalgia and sadness, North Austin is bidding farewell to the beloved Black Star Co-op Pub and Brewery. After an impressive 14 years of serving the community with creativity and passion, this iconic brewpub will officially close its doors on Sunday, January 12.

The Journey of a Unique Brewpub

Opened back in 2010, Black Star Co-op made history as the world’s first community-owned, democratically managed brewpub. With a commitment to creating quality beer and food in a welcoming atmosphere, Black Star attracted thousands of member-owners who not only enjoyed the offerings but also rolled up their sleeves to help run the place. The unique model of operation, which allowed members to participate in decision-making and management, set it apart from traditional pubs.

Over the years, Black Star became known for its deliciously crafted beers and a vegetarian-friendly menu, bringing folks together to share good food and even better conversations. Who could forget those evenings spent sipping on a cold brew with friends or the vibrant community events hosted at the pub? It wasn’t just a place to grab a drink; it was a cherished hub for connection and camaraderie.

Facing Challenges Head-On

Like many small businesses, Black Star faced its share of ups and downs. If we rewind to 2017, the co-op dealt with significant financial challenges, leading to slower sales and difficulty in providing living wages to its hardworking employees. However, the spirit of community shone bright, and with a citywide rescue effort, local support surged, breathing new life into the pub. There was a sense of resilience, and for a time, things seemed to be looking up.

Interestingly enough, just before the shocking announcement of the closure, Black Star boasted two quarters of profit. This news came as a surprise, leading many to believe that perhaps the toughest days were behind them. However, as the statement from the co-op revealed, the decision to close stemmed from “careful considerations of the many challenges” they had encountered over the years, culminating in this bittersweet farewell.

Remembering the Good Times

As the community grapples with this news, the warm memories of shared experiences at Black Star will linger on. The co-op expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who supported them throughout the years, emphasizing that it was the community that made the brewpub special. The closing announcement resonated with many: “We understand this news will be disappointing, and we share in that disappointment.” Indeed, for many, it feels like the end of an era.

To discuss the transition and what’s next for the co-op, a Members’ Assembly Meeting is scheduled for January 11, just a day before the official closing. It will be a time for reflection and sharing insights, ensuring that the community remains connected even as Black Star prepares to close this chapter.

The Legacy of Black Star

Despite the impending closure, Black Star Co-op’s legacy will undoubtedly remain a part of Austin’s vibrant tapestry. Its commitment to treating employees with respect and providing fair wages has always been at the heart of its operation. With its cooperative ownership structure, it showcased a model of business that placed community and connection at the forefront, a rarity in the restaurant and brewery scene.

As we prepare to say goodbye, let’s take a moment to celebrate the creativity, warmth, and community spirit that Black Star brought to North Austin. Whether it was trying out new beer styles or enjoying hearty vegetarian dishes, Black Star has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Here’s to wishing the best for the future of its members, employees, and the countless patrons who created memories together. Cheers to you, Black Star—you will be missed!