From operating a tiny apartment brewery in Michigan just 15 years ago to now winning five consecutive awards from CraftBeer.com and being featured among the “Best Craft Beer Bars” nationally by USA Today, Patti Eisenbraun of Brown Iron Brewhouse stands tall as an acclaimed leader in the field of beer brewing. Drawing on her renowned expertise and commitment to great quality beer, Brown Iron has made itself into a true hidden gem in the beverage industry while also providing families and adults with an enjoyable experience – all the while keeping dietary needs in mind with an emphasis on providing great gluten-free options!
Meet Patti Eisenbraun, Head Brewer at Brown Iron Brewhouse
Introducing Patti Eisenbraun of Brown Iron Brewhouse, a true hidden gem in the brewing industry. With her professional expertise and passion for her craft, Patti has established herself as a leader in her field, crafting some of the best beers in the business. Her commitment to excellence is evident in every sip!
Brown Iron Brewhouse: Bringing People Together
In 2005, Tim and his wife set out to do something bigger than what they were currently doing. With a 10-year plan in place, they saved and took risks to open Brown Iron Brewhouse in Washington Township, MI. In January 2015, the brewery and restaurant opened and it came as no surprise that the business was a massive success with over 6000 guests during its first week. The establishment is dedicated to bringing people together, providing families and adults with an enjoyable experience, offering craft beer and scratch-made food, as well as catering to those with dietary needs, specializing in gluten-free beer and food.
Thriving Despite Challenges
Despite the challenges of starting a business, the Royal Oak location has managed to successfully thrive despite not being eligible for government programs. They have been able to rely on their strong sense of good food and service which has kept the people coming in support. With both their locations continuing to be great places for delicious food and beer, they are now looking into opening a third location, and will soon be announcing details. Even with the difficulties presented by COVID-19, they have remained true to themselves and continue to be a great place for everyone to come together.
Unique Venue and Events
Brown Iron Brewhouse (Brown Iron) is a multi-tap, beer-centric smokehouse that has become widely recognized for its fresh and high-quality scratch-made cuisine, gluten-free options, Beer Server Cicerone-trained staff, unique venue, and events. Tim and Patti Eisenbraun founded Brown Iron in 2011 with the vision of creating something extraordinary that combined their passion for craft beer, quality food, and community involvement. In 2012, they partnered with Chef Deni Smiljanovski and opened their doors in Washington Township, MI in 2015. Brown Iron’s modern German beer hall offers an open and casual atmosphere with communal tables and outdoor patios with authentic German beer garden tables and fire pits. Additionally, their brewery operations feature house-made beer on many of the 70 taps offered.
Brown Iron has been repeatedly recognized for its dedication to craft beer, with accolades such as being named “Best Craft Beer Bar in Michigan” by CraftBeer.com five years in a row (2016-2020), being honored as one of the “Top 50 Companies to Watch in 2017” by the State of Michigan, and being ranked fourth in the nation amongst other beer bars in large metropolitan areas such as New Orleans, Chicago, Portland, and San Fransisco by USA Today. In 2022, Patti was also awarded the “Rick Snyder Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award” for her contribution to small businesses in the state of Michigan. Brown Iron is proud of its accomplishments and looks forward to continued success in the future.
The opening of Brown Iron’s second location in Royal Oak, Michigan in March 2020 was a testament to the resilience of the community and the quality of the establishment. The restaurant has since found immense success due to its delicious food, handcrafted drinks, and exceptional service. Brown Iron continues to thrive today.
Brown Iron and Staff: Unwavering Support
Brown Iron and its staff should be credited for the success of the story. Their unwavering support despite the many challenges that arose was invaluable. David Galbenski, a mentor from the Edward Lowe Foundation, must also be acknowledged for his commitment to ensuring the protagonist stays focused and hopeful in the face of adversity. His insight and understanding of the entrepreneurial mindset proved to be an enormous asset.
The Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) provided further support in the form of funding, education, and advocacy. Finally, the Royal Oak Chamber and the Facebook group, Royal Oak Eats, were instrumental in building community support for Brown Iron. It is with great pride that the company recognizes the invaluable contributions of these organizations to the success of the business.
Patti Eisenbraun’s commitment to excellence and continued exploration of her craft stand as an empowering force in the brewing industry. With five consecutive awards from CraftBeer.com for the best craft beer bar in Michigan, the Rick Snyder Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award in 2022, a four-position when listed by USA Today as one the top craft beer bars across the nation, and more, Brown Iron Brewhouse in Washington Township is a business with real significance and affirmation of Patti Eisenhower’s talents. Through her hard work, determination, and impressive quality of products she has achieved exceptional success that continues even during the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic, Be reassuring that not even the toughest of times can stop excellence in its tracks.
