Pints & Playscapes
St. Elmo Brewing Co.
Words Codi Chen | Photos Baptiste Despois
At the edge of Springdale Road, where a crumbling pile of old tires once marked the landscape, St. Elmo Brewing Co. has built something entirely new: a vibrant, sun-drenched tap room where the day stretches long and easy.
“We made this brewery to be inclusive of all people, not just beer lovers,” says founder, Bryan Winslow. Morning coffee runs, remote work sessions, birthday parties, and lively trivia nights weave together into an easy, welcoming routine.
Inside the taproom, big tables stand ready for families and groups, barstools beckon for a solo drink, and small tables scattered about leave room for laptops and early morning bites. By 8 a.m., the smell of fresh Spokesman coffee and Pueblo Viejo breakfast tacos fill the air, and by 11 a.m., Spicy Boys Fried Chicken joins the party.
“We already had the space, and we love coffee and tea,” Bryan explains. “There aren’t many coffee shops around here, so we thought, why not open the doors earlier and make it a true neighborhood spot?”
Outside, the patios unfold in layers, each offering a little something different. Near the stage, clusters of picnic tables invite guests to settle in for live music, with space for kids to dart between songs. Beyond that, a bright playscape buzzes with energy, flanked by a covered patio where parents can keep an eye on the action with a coffee or a cold beer in hand, thanks to the nearby order window. A separate patio offers a more laid-back retreat, perfect for adults catching up or remote working under the shade.
Their beer menu mirrors their inclusive spirit. “Carl,” the house-favorite Kolsch, is a love letter to Texas summers: dry, crisp, and served in a traditional stange glass. The rotating taps showcase the same variety: Hazy (a juicy IPA), Reba (a smooth Japanese Rice Lager), Skylight (a bright American Wheat), and even Hop Water for those skipping the alcohol.
Regular events add even more color to the St. Elmo experience. Every week, trivia night, crafted by their comedian-bartender, draws in crowds and belly laughs. Pop-up markets, drag queen brunches, crawfish boils, and live music fill the calendar, creating a festive, come-as-you-are vibe that feels distinctly Austin.
The vision is about pouring a great pint and creating a space where families gather, friendships grow, and the rhythms of everyday life unfold. “When I first moved here, the city felt so vibrant and welcoming,” Bryan reflects. “That’s what we want this place to be, a continuation of the community that makes Austin so special.”
Contact:
8110 Springdale Rd.
stelmobrewing.com/springdale
@stelmobrewing
