Worcester, September 14, 2025
News Summary
Wormtown Brewery, a key player in Worcester’s craft beer scene, announces a significant renovation of its Shrewsbury Street taproom. The expansion will add 4,500 square feet, bringing the total to 10,000 square feet. Set to enhance customer experience and introduce new offerings, the project reflects the brewery’s commitment to the local craft beer community. Key features will include a kitchen for collaboration with local restaurants and a lounge area. While the taproom is currently closed for renovations, Wormtown’s Foxboro location continues to thrive, especially on game days.
Worcester
Wormtown Brewery, a staple in the Worcester craft beer scene for over 16 years, is set to undergo a significant renovation at its Shrewsbury Street taproom. Closed since July 3, 2024, the venue will expand by approximately 4,500 square feet, bringing the total size to around 10,000 square feet. This move comes under the ownership of the Hendler Family Brewing Co., which also owns Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers.
The decision to close the taproom was part of a planned construction project meant to revitalize the space and enhance the customer experience. While the taproom remains in “heavy construction,” updates about its reopening are anticipated soon.
Expansion and Renovation Details
The remodeling project includes major structural changes such as the demolition and reconstruction of a brick wall behind the bar. The goal is to create a more restaurant-like atmosphere. Design elements such as blue and white stained glass windows will be featured, alongside a lounge area dubbed ‘the Barrel Loft’, which will offer a relaxed environment with foosball tables and the potential for additional games in the future.
The renovated taproom will also introduce a kitchen that allows for collaboration with local restaurants to host pop-up events, diversifying Porktown’s offerings. Additionally, Wormtown plans to venture into distilling within the new taproom, marking a new chapter for the brewery.
Background and Community Impact
Wormtown Brewery originally opened its doors in 2010, with a larger taproom being unveiled in 2020. The recent acquisition by the Hendler Family Brewing Co. took place in April 2024, aiming to support the brand’s continuity and growth. Generally, the production of Wormtown’s beer lineup has remained steady, featuring only minor adjustments to packaging and release schedules following the ownership transition.
Despite the Shrewsbury Street taproom’s closure, Wormtown’s Foxboro location has seen an uptick in business, especially during Patriots home games where the taproom opens early at 10 a.m. Popular food offerings on game days include hot dogs, burgers, and bratwurst, alongside the flagship beer Be Hoppy which has received favorable attention from attendees. The Foxboro site remains equipped with five TVs displaying NFL games, including coverage of the RedZone channel, which has helped maintain customer engagement during the Shrewsbury Street location’s renovation.
Future Vision and Goals
The project reflects Wormtown Brewery’s commitment to enhancing the local craft beer experience while adapting to the changing landscape of the industry in Worcester. The grand reopening of the updated Shrewsbury Street taproom is planned to coincide with Wormtown’s 11th anniversary. With aspirations to offer various new experiences, the brewery hopes to fortify its position within the community and continue its legacy as a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Original Opening | 2010 |
| Expansion Size | 4,500 square feet |
| Total Size After Renovation | 10,000 square feet |
| New Features | Kitchens, lounge area, foosball tables |
| Collaboration Plans | Pop-up events with local restaurants |
| Wormtown Ownership | Hendler Family Brewing Co. since April 2024 |
| Flagship Beer | Be Hoppy |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of Wormtown Brewery’s Shrewsbury Street taproom?
The taproom has been closed for renovations since July 3, 2024, with the expansion project ongoing, and updates about reopening are expected soon.
How much bigger will the taproom be after renovations?
The taproom is set to expand by approximately 4,500 square feet, bringing the total area to around 10,000 square feet.
What new offerings can customers expect in the renovated space?
The updated taproom will feature a kitchen, a lounge area, foosball tables, and will host pop-up events with local restaurants.
What has happened to Wormtown Brewery’s production since the new ownership?
Production levels have remained consistent with minimal changes; the beer lineup primarily remains the same with slight modifications in packaging and release schedules.
Where can customers go while the Shrewsbury Street location is closed?
Customers are encouraged to visit Wormtown’s Foxboro location, which has seen an increase in traffic during the renovation period.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Telegram: Beyond Beer Amid Construction, Something’s Brewing at Wormtown
- Wikipedia: Wormtown Brewery
- Boston Magazine: Wormtown Brewery at Patriot Place
- Google Search: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Wormtown Brewery’s New Worcester Taproom
- Google Scholar: Wormtown Brewery
- MassLive: Meet the New Wormtown Brewery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wormtown Brewery
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
