Go Inside: NoDa Brewing’s original taproom reopens with facelift that gives it a speakeasy vibe

Like thousands around our city, I’ve got awesome memories from their “OG” location. I’m pumped now that it’s open again.

I love NoDa Brewing.

Sure, they’ve produced popular beers Hop Drop ‘N Roll and Jam Session, but I love them the most for the impact they’ve had on Charlotte culture. It all stems from husband and wife owners Suzie and Todd Ford. The couple has managed to build an empire while maintaining humility and treating employees, partners and customers like part of their family.

What’s different: The space has been transformed and has more of a wine bar or speakeasy vibe with comfy group seating and more mellow colors that NoDa Brewing typically uses. It feels adult and sophisticated.

Catch up: NoDa Brewing first opened its doors on October 29, 2011. In the fall of 2015, NoDa Brewing moved into its current home — a larger new facility with more parking — on North Tryon and closed its original location in the summer of 2016 due to limited parking. The space still only has about 15 parking spots, so if you’re heading their take a Lyft (which you should do regardless if you’re crushing Hop Drops).

Beers: Expect specialty beers that are only available at the OG. “Since closing our doors to the public in the tap room back in 2016, we’ve kept brewing at the OG and have really focused on our sour program — the Boba Brett Sour Project — that we’ve been aging in 30 barrel foeders, giving them that sour complexity that we really love from start to finish,” Suzie Ford told me. If you’re a sour newb, don’t worry, they’ll have flights so you can try a bunch.

Food situation: NoDa Brewing OG will serve food from Chop & Chisel like wraps and charcuterie. Don’t forget, Rhino Market just opened across the street if you’re looking for a tasty walkable food option.

Hours & location: Hours are 3-10 p.m. on Friday; noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday; and noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday. The exact address is 2229 N Davidson St.