Tuesday marked the final day of operation for one of Bay View’s newest concert venues. The bar and banquet hall’s closing was announced Monday on Bay View Brew Haus’ Facebook page.
Opened in 2009, the spacious 2535 S. Kinnickinnic Ave. establishment played host to a variety of events (musical and otherwise) including record release shows for Decibully’s World Travels Fast and Get Rad album I Can Always Live, in addition to performances by a myriad of notable local and touring acts like Headlights, Jaill, Rocky Votolato, Call Me Lightning and Mustard Plug. The under-attended bar also hosted vinyl nights and swing dance lessons, as well as playing a regular host to the Ex Fabula storytelling series and weekly meetings of Milwaukee Guitar Club.
Just over a year ago, Music Notes highlighted Bay View Brew Haus in a venue profile, saying:
“At fewer than two years of existence, Bay View Brew Haus is one of Milwaukee’s newest music venues. However, this Masonic temple-turned beer hall wasted little time in cultivating a presence in Bay View’s already vibrant music scene. Much of the week, the spacious establishment is your average main drag tavern—save for it being massive, offering free pool and dollar PBRs on specific nights and resting atop a Chinese restaurant. But when the weekend arrives, the Brew Haus transforms into a venue capable of playing an apt host to comedy shows, wedding receptions, craft events and (most notably) concerts.”
No information is provided on what will occupy the space, though talk of the site becoming a movie theater has surfaced last year. A commenter claims it was purchased by the owners of Brady Street bar/venue Up & Under Pub, which, if true, would hint at 2535 S. Kinnickinnic continuing to host bands in some capacity.
Farewell, Bay View Brew Haus. You’re already missed.
