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Orlando Loses a Local Treasure: Broken Strings Brewery Closes

A look inside the beloved Broken Strings Brewery, filled with memories of laughter and camaraderie.

News Summary

Orlando bids farewell to Broken Strings Brewery, a cherished location in the Parramore neighborhood since 2016. Once a popular hangout for soccer fans and craft beer enthusiasts, it faces closure due to increased costs and a declining craft beer market. Despite community support through a GoFundMe campaign, it announced its permanent closure effective January 6, 2025. A farewell party is planned for January 18, giving patrons a chance to celebrate the memories created there.

Orlando Loses a Local Treasure: Broken Strings Brewery Closes its Doors

Orlando, known for its vibrant culture and endless entertainment options, is saying a bittersweet goodbye to Broken Strings Brewery, a beloved local hangout that has been a staple of the Parramore neighborhood since it opened in 2016. Located right at 1012 W. Church Street, this cozy brewery became a favorite spot for locals and a go-to destination for Orlando City Soccer fans due to its convenient location near the stadium and quality craft beers.

The Rise and Fall of Local Craft Beer

Despite its initial success, the brewery’s journey was not without its struggles. Owner Charles Frizzell and his team poured their hearts into their business, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for patrons. However, as the years progressed, life became challenging for Broken Strings, culminating in a difficult decision to close permanently.

In an effort to keep the lights on, the brewery launched a GoFundMe campaign earlier this year in April 2024. The goal was to raise $30,000 to help sustain the brewery’s operations. Support from the community was strong, with the campaign reaching about 50% of its goal. Despite the goodwill and generosity of patrons, it was still not enough to ensure the brewery’s long-term viability.

On January 6, 2025, Broken Strings made the heartbreaking announcement that it would be closing its doors for good. The reasons cited included factors like increased business costs, changes in the downtown Orlando scene, and a notable decline in the craft beer market.

A Farewell Celebration and Grateful Hearts

As a parting gift to its loyal customers, Broken Strings is hosting a farewell party scheduled for Saturday, January 18, 2025. The event will feature free beer while supplies last, giving everyone a chance to raise a glass in memory of the good times spent at the brewery.

The decision to close was not made lightly. In fact, the brewery faced significant challenges leading up to this moment. A major cooler breakdown had already put a strain on operations, signaling trouble. Although the funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign allowed for some critical repairs, they ultimately were not enough to breathe life back into the establishment for the long haul.

Reflecting on the journey, Broken Strings shared how the dream of opening the brewery had begun over a decade ago. The relationships formed with customers and fellow craft beer enthusiasts were central to its charm, and the closure leaves a palpable void in the community.

Looking Towards the Future

While the closure may be disheartening for many, the brewery’s farewell message carried a sentiment of hope. The team expressed a belief that they were moving on to bigger and better things, hinting at new adventures that lie ahead. For many, the memories made at Broken Strings will linger, reminding everyone of the laughter, friendships, and community that the brewery nurtured.

As the craft beer landscape changes and evolves, Orlando will surely embrace new beginnings. In the world of small businesses, each closing is also a chance for new ideas to blossom. So, while we bid adieu to Broken Strings Brewery, we encourage the community to support upcoming ventures and continue fostering a vibrant spirit of camaraderie that makes Orlando such a special place to live.

Unfortunately, saying farewell is never easy, especially when it involves a cherished local gem like Broken Strings. As patrons prepare to gather one last time for the farewell party, there’s no doubt that the memories made there will live on in the hearts of many. Cheers to the memories and to the next chapter for everyone involved!