The End Of An Era: 5 Things You Need To Know About The Closure Of Lafayette Brewing Company, Indiana's Second Oldest Brewpub
The Lafayette Brewing Company (LBC), a cornerstone of the Indiana craft beer movement and the second-oldest brewpub in the state, has officially closed its doors, marking the end of a 32-year run in downtown Lafayette. As of late December 2025, the iconic establishment at 622 Main Street is permanently out of business, leaving a massive void in the local community and the broader Indiana brewing scene.
This news is a requiem for a true pioneer. Since opening in 1993, LBC was more than just a place to grab a pint; it was a community hub, a family dining room, and a vital part of Tippecanoe County’s original craft brewery story. The decision to close was not due to a lack of support, but rather a final, personal choice by its long-time owners.
A Pioneer's Profile: The Legacy of Lafayette Brewing Company (1993–2025)
Lafayette Brewing Company, often affectionately referred to as "The Brew Co" or "LBC," holds a revered status in Indiana's brewing history. Its story is intrinsically linked to the early days of the American craft beer revival.
- Founded: September 1993.
- Status: Permanently Closed (as of late December 2025).
- Location: 622 Main Street, Lafayette, Indiana 47901.
- Owners: Greg and Nancy Emig.
- Historical Significance: It was one of Indiana’s first brewpubs and the second-oldest operating brewery in the state, making it a true pioneer of the Indiana craft beer scene.
- Years of Operation: 32 years.
- Community Role: Served as a full-service brewpub with a family dining room and bar, offering world-class craft beers and a diverse menu.
The Emigs were early players in the game, establishing a local brewery concept when the idea was still relatively new and risky in Indiana. Their commitment to quality and community cemented LBC's place in the state's culinary and beverage landscape for over three decades.
The End of an Era: Why LBC Closed Its Doors After 32 Years
For many patrons, the sudden closure announcement was a shock. However, the reasoning behind the decision by owners Greg and Nancy Emig was a common, yet poignant, one in the small business world: the time for retirement had come.
The owners, who are in their sixties, were ready to step away from the demanding day-to-day operations of running a popular brewpub. They openly stated that December 20th would be the last day for LBC.
The Challenge of Transition
A major factor in the permanent closure, rather than a sale, was the inability to find a suitable buyer who could ensure a seamless transition. The Emigs were not just selling a business; they were selling a legacy and a complex operation that included brewing equipment, a restaurant, and a historic location. The difficulty in finding the right successor to carry the torch ultimately led to the decision to close down completely, rather than risk the integrity of the brand they had built over 32 years.
This closure serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the first generation of craft brewery owners as they reach retirement age. The loss is felt deeply, not just in Lafayette, but by the entire Indiana brewing community that viewed LBC as a constant, reliable presence.
A Taste of History: LBC's Most Iconic Beers and Brews
Lafayette Brewing Company's reputation was built on its world-class craft beers. Over the years, LBC produced a wide array of styles, catering to both the casual drinker and the serious beer enthusiast. Their commitment to brewing excellence helped define the flavor profile of the early Indiana craft beer scene.
The Unforgettable Beer Lineup
While the brewery produced many seasonal and specialty brews, several core beers achieved legendary status among locals and visitors. These beers represent the heart and soul of LBC’s brewing philosophy:
- Black Angus: A rich and robust Oatmeal Stout that was a favorite for those seeking a dark, creamy, and complex brew.
- Eighty-Five: An American IPA, this beer offered the classic hop-forward profile that helped popularize the IPA style in the region.
- Tippecanoe Common Ale: A nod to the local Tippecanoe County, this Red IPA was a balanced and highly drinkable option, often lauded for its malty backbone and hoppy finish.
- Star City Lager: A clean and crisp Dortmunder/Export Lager, proving LBC’s capability to master traditional, lighter styles as well as heavier ales.
- Pipers’ Pale Ale: Another classic offering that satisfied the demand for a reliably flavorful and easy-drinking pale ale.
The very first beer that helped launch the company's journey was a Smoked Porter, a testament to the experimental and passionate spirit of the owners in the early 1990s. Their beers were available for carryout via growler jugs, allowing patrons to take a piece of LBC home with them.
More Than Just Beer: The Brewpub's Beloved Menu and Community Role
As a full-service brewpub, Lafayette Brewing Company was equally famous for its diverse and satisfying food menu. It was a place where students, families, and regulars could gather, offering a welcoming, dog-friendly patio and a separate family dining area.
Signature Food Entrees and Daily Specials
The menu was packed with classic pub fare elevated by high-quality ingredients. Key entities and popular dishes that patrons will miss include:
- The Brew Co Cheeseburger: A staple, often featured as a lunch special, known for being a simple, perfect pub burger.
- Cheesesteak: A popular choice, prepared with care and frequently cited as a menu highlight.
- Birria Tacos: A more modern addition to the menu, showcasing the brewpub's willingness to evolve its offerings.
- Fried Pickles: A beloved appetizer, perfect for pairing with any of their house drafts.
LBC also fostered a strong community atmosphere through consistent specials like Mug Night, where patrons could buy a mug and get discounted house drafts and cocktails. This focus on value and community engagement ensured that LBC remained a downtown Lafayette institution for over three decades, contributing significantly to the local economy and culture.
The Lasting Impact on Indiana's Craft Beer Landscape
The permanent closing of Lafayette Brewing Company is a significant moment in Indiana's craft beer history. It represents the passing of the torch from the state’s earliest pioneers to the newer generation of brewers. LBC’s 32-year run provided a blueprint for what a successful, community-focused brewpub could be.
While the doors at 622 Main Street are now closed, the legacy of Greg and Nancy Emig, their commitment to the craft, and the memory of their iconic beers like the Black Angus Stout and Tippecanoe Common Ale will continue to resonate. The Brew Co may be gone, but its impact on Lafayette, Indiana, and the entire Midwest craft beer movement is indelible.
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