Tucked away in Tipp City is Chaffee’s Brewhouse, a craft beer and cocktail bar also serving up good wine.
“We have 18 taps that include a rotating array of craft beers and we also have wines and a cocktail on tap as well,” explains Owner Lisa Richards.
Richards, who owns the business with her husband Shawn, says that when they decided to open a business they wanted to give the community’s craft beer and cocktail lovers a place to go. “We are the perfect spot to hit either before or after dinner at one of the neighboring restaurants such as Harrison’s or Coldwater Cafe,” she says. “Or you can order food and bring it in.”
Chaffee’s is close to the bike path, so it’s also a great place to stop while you’re out on a bike ride.
The couple brought a plethora of experience when launching the space, as Shawn designed and installed the entire draft system (he also owns Miami Valley Draft Services) and Lisa is a former bartender who likes good wine and creating fun cocktails.
Chaffee’s Brewhouse got its name from its location int he historic Chaffee’s Opera House building, so not only are they bringing a new, modern take to the space, but they’re paying homage to its past.
When you visit Chaffee’s Brewhouse you’ll find a rotating beer list. “We do have some that we repeat but we try to get in different beers from all types of craft breweries,” says Richards. “Our focus is on Ohio and regional beers. Our Cosmopolitan on tap is house-made with Ohio-made vodka. There’s something for just about everyone’s palate.”
As for the food, Chaffee’s offers cheese plates. There are four different cheeses, crackers, a chutney or a jam, and some olives. Richards adds that they’re perfect for snacking while you grab a drink or two.
The bar at Chaffee’s continues the couple’s passion for honoring the past, as it was built using wood from Shawn’s family farm. “My husband and his father built it,” she says, “with a little help from myself and my two daughters. We wanted to create a beautiful space where anyone could feel comfortable. We also have couches and tables that create nice, relaxed conversation areas.”
Chaffee’s will soon start offering trivia once a month, on Tuesdays. And as the weather starts to warm up they will offer a food truck every Monday.
They also recently expanded with a new space, called The Wine Vault. “The Wine Vault offers additional seating and can be reserved for private parties, and offers a more ‘speakeasy’ vibe to it,” adds Richards.
Chaffee’s Brewhouse is located at 15 S. 2nd Street in Tipp City. You can check them out on their website or by following along on Facebook, Instagram, and Untappd.