Although their business has been open for just about six weeks, their relationship has been brewing for a lifetime.
The father-son duo behind one of Lansing's newest brew pubs and taprooms admit that their interest in brewing beer is a habit run amok. Dan Malone started brewing 24 years ago, Kyle Malone about 6. But it's a passion they've poured into the well-received
Ozone's Brewhouse—a place that brings brewing back to Old Town after Lansing Brewing Co. closed in 1914.
In mid-August, Dan and Kyle Malone opened the doors at 305 Beaver Street to an instant following. Many customers within walking distance became regulars, with some becoming mug club members—a privilege that comes with a customized mug stored on site and discounts on single beers and growlers. Others come in from around town to enjoy five mainstay brews and up to an eventual seven selections on a rotating tap.
"Beyond just a fantastic location, we talked to some of the people in Old Town and had conversations about how Old Town supports neighborhood businesses," says Dan, the dad-side of the business. "We found that to be true, and used a local designer and construction crew. It's just a very collegial environment."
The 3,600-square foot brewhouse seats 55 inside, with space for 35 more customers outside on the open-air patio. The Malones invested more than $400,000 to get the business started, with $200,000 applied toward transforming what Dan calls a "butt ugly warehouse and shack."
"At one point, this place had zero plumbing, no studs, no insulation, and just one little light source," says Kyle, the son half of the Malone equation. "We made it into a space where people could come in and have a beer, and added the drainage, plumbing and equipment for a brewing area, too."
The Malones worked hard to create a cozy feel, complete with reclaimed barn wood, Edison lighting, and the back bar from the Mustang Bar—a neighborhood haunt that shuttered in 1986. Long-time Old Town entrepreneur and supporter Terry Terry had preserved the bar after converting the Mustang into the
UrbanBeat Events Center, and donated it to the Malones.
"It's a fantastic piece and has such character," says Kyle. "One of Terry's comments was 'it's a piece of Old Town that stayed in Old Town.' We were very, very pleased to have it."
Ozone's Brewhouse employs six staff, with Kyle running the day-to-day operations and serving as brew master. While the taproom doesn't serve food, customers can grab a bite to bring inside from
Good Trucking' Diner, which parks its food truck on the premises.
Source: Dan and Kyle Malone, Owner, Ozone's Brew House
Writer: Ann Kammerer, News Editor
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