A new member of the ever-growing Island beer scene is now open in seaside Sidney and its owners are reading into the community’s love for literature.
Small Gods Brewery, a family-owned and operated brewery, has officially opened at the corner of Third Street and Sidney Avenue and is mixing beverages with books.
“Small Gods Brewing came about as a way to get Sidney and North Saanich a community brewery. And we’ve decided to reflect the community by making it a literary-themed brewery,” said co-owner Chris Bjerrisgaard.
With Sidney being known as Canada’s “Book Town” for having the most bookstores per capita in the country, Bjerrisgaard says he and partner Sierra Skye Gemma and head brewer Jonny Kostiuk wanted to offer patrons a unique experience.
He says the brewery is designed to provide an atmosphere where all are welcome to stop by and enjoy a cold one with friends, family, or their favourite book.
“We have a kids’ bookshelf in the room, we’re very family-friendly, and that is something we thought the fabric of the city community was looking for and really wanted,” Bjerrisgaard told CHEK News.
The name “Small Gods” was inspired by Legends of the Fall author Jim Harrison, who also published several essays on food and drink.
“All of our beers are named after books,” added Bjerrisgaard in an interview.
Aside from beer, the team serves up a selection of local wines, ciders and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as sandwiches and snacks with both vegetarian and vegan options.
Guests can get comfortable on the 60-seat patio or inside the 80-seat lounge and enjoy monthly events, including author readings and literary trivia nights, or grab a four-pack and head out to one of the nearby parks and beaches.
CHEK News
