Photo provided by Brewster's.

What once was Prohibition 1454, Tequila Cantina and formerly Z’s Restaurant & Bar, 1454 Main Street has seen multiple business occupants come and go with the passing of seasons and continual evolution of Downtown. But owners Jacob, Curtis and Billy Brewster, who have 35 years experience in the hospitality field in Illinois, see only untapped potential—collaborating brotherly minds to manifest Brewster’s Tavern, newly opened as of this past weekend. The Brewsters’ venture entailed completely updating and redecorating the space from a hapless lot to a modern, versatile and welcoming bar. “With all of the new development going on downtown, we want this to be everyone’s casual contemporary bar,” says Jacob. With rustic hipster vibes, live entertainment several days a week, combined with several new TVs, sports package offerings, handmade dart boards and pool tables, Sarasotans will no doubt feel right at home with this new hangout of spirited revival. 

“Our design focuses around the industrial feel of the original building’s infrastructure," shares Jacon. "Back in the 20s, the building was built with brick and marble and we wanted to accentuate that in the design,” which they do by adding a brand new cement bar top and exposing the brick and reclaimed wood walls. Further investing in the details, handcrafted furnishings from local craftswoman and artist Tara Piedra of Gray Bay Goods Custom Woodwork are seen throughout—including the intricate tables made of diagonal wood designs and branded with the newly established black rooster logo. With a full menu in tact for lunch as well as casual late, after-midnight foods, customers will find signature Chicago-based items in addition to build-your-own options, “so you can choose to eat healthy or embrace a cheat day”. And attracting local beerly beloveds, the brothers implemented a brand new tap system so customers can look forward to an expansive draft beer wall of 20 different local craft brews, plus a wide array of wines. “We’d like Brewster’s to be the spot where you can just stop to have a quick drink and bite,” says Jacob, “but also where you can hangout for hours and dance on a Friday night.”

Photo provided by Brewster's.

Brewster's Tavern, 1454 Main St., Sarasota, 941-343-2380.