As a “twenty-something” year old graduate of James Madison University, I always considered myself a connoisseur of beverages, ranging from light beer to signature brews. That is until I met the founder of Capitol City Brewery, David Von Storch. He is the true connoisseur of sorts – but not only in regard to the art of brewery. He is the epitome of a savvy businessman who has the education and experience to know that Capitol City Brewery is best kept a local entity in the Washington, DC and Alexandria area.

Capitol City Brewery entered uncharted territory when they opened their doors in 1992 as the first brewpub in our nation's capitol since prohibition. Before I continue, I think it is important for the readers of the Old Town Crier to be familiar with the term “brewpub”. According to Dictionary.com, the term brewpub/ˈbruˌpʌb/ Pronunciation Key is a combination brewery and restaurant where beer is brewed for consumption on the premises and served along with food. (Good food, at that!)

I had the pleasure of interviewing David and must say that his business construct surprised me. He stressed that it was more important to take part in the local community than to become a large national chain. In his words, “How much money does one have to make to consider oneself a success?” David has made his mark by building successful businesses from the ground up in more industries than you could imagine. He has experience with the financing and operations of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, just to name a few.

While he has big plans for the future, David has learned from past mistakes and is willing to wait for the right location before expanding. And as we all know…location is everything! You will be pleased to hear that David has no plans of loosing the close-knit relationship with the neighborhood. As he explained, the momentum of success is not a true tell sign that development outside of the District is necessary.

When asked what David would want the readers to know about Capitol City Brewery, he did not take the opportunity to promote upcoming events or specials, but answered whole heartedly and without hesitation. He explained that the community needs to know that his breweries are locally owned and operated. His favorite part of the company is that they are able to create a unique product and are well known for their dedication to distributing the best in the business. They differ from other restaurants in the sense that they are not promoting a unique burger, chicken dish, or pasta but rather a fine, hand-crafted beer. He stressed that the most fun was that he, the brewers, and the rest of the staff were given the opportunity to reflect their personalities in their craft. In my opinion, anyone who can have this much fun working must be doing something right!

Capitol City Brewery is possibly best known for the annual Mid-Atlantic Oktoberfest, which is hosted in Shirlington (see their ad in this issue). Those of you who have attended the festival in past years know that this is an event that should not be overlooked. The popularity is irrefutable; this year the 9th annual Oktoberfest has expanded by 30%! It is an opportunity to bring people out of their homes and into the local neighborhood to enjoy the brewery, as well as many of the other vendors on the strip. It began on one block and now has grown to several, and this year will even wrap around the corner! Those of you who are familiar with Shirlington Village know that this is the perfect venue for this occasion! They will have 30+ breweries providing 4oz samples. Throughout the event there will be an authentic German band as well as authentic Oktoberfest food. No need to find a sitter – celebrating their new location the Shirlington Library will have kid’s events to provide entertainment for all ages. The event costs $25 if you want to sample the beer, but is free to everyone else who wants to attend. It will take place rain or shine on Saturday, October 4th from 12pm to 6pm. If you have a prior engagement, have no fear – it is Capitol City’s future goal to host a Spring Festival to compliment this joyous event. This will likely be held in Washington, DC… STAY TUNED for details!

While I have provided a brief explanation to the term brewpub, Capitol City’s website will explain all that this brewpub has to offer. You can find information on drink specials, like the Tuesday ALL DAY $2.00 pint specials, to details on upcoming events, like the ever-popular Oktoberfest. David and his staff have created an atmosphere for regulars and out-of-towners, alike. If you haven’t been to one of the three locations – you should find a time to enjoy some of the most exceptional handcrafted beer in our country. I am sure that I will see you there!

http://www.capcitybrew.com/

SHIRLINGTON


2700 South Quincy Street
Arlington, Va 22206
Tel: (703) 578-3888
Capitol Hill
2 Massachusetts Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20001
Tel: (202) 842-BEER
Downtown
1100 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20005
Tel: (202) 628-2222

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