The microbrewery boom could soon come to Myrtle Beach.
The city planning commission reviewed a proposal to permit a microbrewery in the limited manufacturing zone directly behind the Market Common.
It would be called Tidal Creek Brewhouse, and it would be located in a 5,250 square foot building on Knoles Street, between Lewis and Nevers Street. Unlike brewpubs such as Gordon Biersch and Liberty Tap Room, which are centered around restaurants, Tidal Creek would primarily be a production facility with a taproom that offers brew tastings and a smaller food selection.
“It certainly would be a ground breaker,” said Michael Grossman, who presented the proposal to the planning commission.
Grossman estimates Tidal Creek will produce 7,000 to 10,000 barrels each year. He also brings plenty of experience to the table. Grossman was a brew master at Gordon Biersch in the Market Common for eight years.
“Being that this LM is near residential property as well as shopping, they get a place to hang out, have a cold bear or a glass of mead or cider, have something to eat, play some corn hole, and see a production facility,” he said.
Planning Director Carol Coleman said opening the microbrewery would be a big step towards revitalizing that part of the old air force base.
“It’s another opportunity for an area that’s been kind of waiting for that, the spark that’s going to take it to the next level. Anything we can do to bring those buildings back to life,” she said.
Coleman has visited microbreweries across the country, and said having one in Myrtle Beach could draw more people to the city.
“There are a lot of tourists that go to places like this. I mean, I’m one of them. Charleston’s had a lot of success with it. Wilmington, North Carolina is doing really well, Columbia, Greenville,” she listed.
Grossman believes if this microbrewery is built, “I’m certain you’ll see more concepts like this coming to the town once one is done.”
