Experience the local brewpub atmosphere, fit for the entire family, at Crooked Letter Brewing Co. in Ocean Springs with hand-crafted dishes and locally brewed beer for every taste.
Crooked Letter Brewing Co. started as an idea back in 2009 that came to fruition in November 2012 on Government Street in Ocean Springs. At that point, they were brewing approximately 150 gallons a week, providing drafts to local establishments. Within weeks, they expanded into a large-scale brewing facility and were brewing 500 gallons several times a week. By the end of 2013, they had expanded their draft beer to all of Mississippi. Then, bottles of some of their signature brews, including Mystery Romp Mocha Porter, Stabello Italian Lager, Crooked Heffy American Hefeweizen, and Gipsy IPA, launched in 2014, following by seasonal brews later that year. Along the way, Crooked Letter was also hired by the MGM Beau Rivage to brew four house-brand, private-label products only available in the MGM properties in Biloxi and Tunica. They began contract brewing for other small businesses throughout the state as well as Birmingham, Alabama, in 2015. Currently, their beer, and soda, is brewed at their location at Porter Avenue and they offer dozens of styles of regularly offered beers as well as seasonal and experimental beers. “We chose to do this out of a passion for great quality beer, approachable beer, and the social experience of creating a unique community based and inspired brewpub atmosphere for the entire family,” said Paul Blacksmith, founder, CEO, and brewmaster, about choosing to brew their own beer.
The location on Porter has an 18-tap draft tower, and beers change from week to week. They also offer hand-crafted food that is made fresh daily. Beer is often one of their cooking ingredients as well as they offer beer burgers, beer brats, beer bread, beer desserts, etc. “What sets us apart is that we are the only brewery in Mississippi with a full restaurant and full bar within our Crooked Letter Brewery & Restaurant Brand,” Blacksmith said. “Unique flavors literally ‘pour’ into all the food as well as the beers we brew onsite.” They also offer entertainment that is fun for the whole family to enjoy. They have live music events such as live Celtic music as well as game nights for the entire family. They have also hosted bands and entertainment from as far as away as Germany, France, and Algeria, and host the World Fusion Dinner Theater presented by Vega Bellydance. Blacksmith said they invite “all arts” into their establishment and have welcomed bands in genres that range from heavy metal and punk to country and hip hop. “It is very important for me, as the founder and CEO, to provide a judge free zone for the arts and entertainment who may not be able to break through to an audience anywhere else,” he said. “We do not have a certain style we cater to.” Their location is also available for private bookings for all types of events, including parties, wedding ceremonies, receptions, special fundraisers, special events, etc. He said they do not charge a rental fee. A deposit is not required, and there is not a minimum food order. “We simply invite you and your family, co-workers, or friends to book your event here, enjoy our tasty, unique foods and beverages, and help spread the word of this family-friendly, cozy experience,” Blacksmith said.
Blacksmith said they have always been supported by the local community, and Crooked Letter has returned the favor by sponsoring several Ocean Springs events. They also co-hosted the first ever Ocean Springs Oktoberfest last year along with the Mary C. Cultural Center for Arts & Education. The 2019 Octoberfest is currently in the planning stages. Moving forward, their goal is just to continue to expand what they offer to the local community. “The more we can continue to produce great quality food and beer, the more organically our business will grow, and we know and appreciate every single visit to our place,” he said. To learn more about Crooked Letter Brewery, find them on Facebook or visit their website.