CraftWorks Restaurants & Breweries

CraftWorks Restaurants & Breweries, Inc. was a multi-brand restaurant and brewery company headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, United States. The company was known for its large portfolio of brewery and craft beer-focused restaurants, including well-known chains such as Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurants, and Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery. CraftWorks held a unique position in the restaurant industry, blending traditional dining services with an emphasis on craft beer production and sales.

History

CraftWorks Restaurants & Breweries, Inc. was formed through the merger of two companies: Rock Bottom Restaurants Inc. and Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant Group Inc. in 2010. This merger combined the strengths of both entities, creating a powerhouse in the brewery restaurant sector. Over the years, CraftWorks expanded its footprint across the United States, operating over 200 locations at its peak.

The company's growth strategy included the acquisition of other brewery and restaurant chains, further diversifying its portfolio. However, like many in the restaurant industry, CraftWorks faced significant challenges, including changing consumer preferences and the competitive landscape of craft breweries and eateries.

Operations

CraftWorks' operations were centered around its brewery restaurants, each with its own distinct brand identity and target market. The company's brands were known for their quality craft beers, brewed on-site, and a diverse menu catering to a wide range of tastes.

Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom

Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom was renowned for its extensive beer selection, including local and regional craft beers, and its variety of pizza options. This brand was a staple in the CraftWorks portfolio, appealing to both beer enthusiasts and families looking for a casual dining experience.

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurants

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurants focused on combining craft beer with a menu inspired by the German beer culture. This brand was distinguished by its commitment to the purity of its beer, adhering to the traditional German beer-making principles.

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery offered a unique experience with each location brewing its own exclusive beers. This brand was characterized by its innovative approach to craft beer, creating unique flavors that reflected the local tastes and preferences of each location.

Challenges and Closure

Despite its efforts to adapt to the rapidly evolving restaurant and brewery landscape, CraftWorks faced significant financial difficulties. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March 2020, a move that was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the restaurant industry. The pandemic led to temporary closures and reduced capacity for dine-in services, severely affecting CraftWorks' operations and revenue.

In April 2020, it was announced that CraftWorks Holdings had been sold to its lender, Fortress Investment Group, following a bankruptcy auction. This sale marked the end of CraftWorks Restaurants & Breweries, Inc. as it was known, with many of its locations either closing or being sold off to other operators.

Legacy

CraftWorks Restaurants & Breweries, Inc. left a lasting impact on the brewery restaurant industry, pioneering the concept of combining craft beer production with full-service dining. Its brands, particularly Old Chicago, Gordon Biersch, and Rock Bottom, continue to be recognized for their contributions to the craft beer movement and the dining landscape.