Big Lug Brewing is eyeing the former Garfield Brewery taproom on Shelby Street in Garfield Park, according to local reports, setting the stage for a northside favorite to slide into a southside neighborhood spot many residents say they miss. For now, the timing and even the exact concept are still in the “to be determined” column.
As reported by Indianapolis Business Journal, the plan focuses on 2310 Shelby St., the address Garfield Brewery has used since 2018. The report notes that the proposal specifically targets the taproom space, and that details such as menu, operating hours and an opening date have not yet been shared publicly.
Big Lug's footprint and approach
Big Lug Brewing, part of the Sahm's Hospitality family, currently operates Big Lug Canteen in Nora and Half Liter in Broad Ripple, and its website describes the brand as a set of food-forward brewpubs that brew on site. According to Big Lug Brewing, production is handled at the Broad Ripple facility, with the company growing its presence through related concepts linked to that operation. The group has not yet issued a public announcement with specifics about what is planned for the Garfield Park location.
Garfield Brewery's legacy
Garfield Brewery opened in 2018 and became known for its shaded patio and neighborhood-focused beers, according to its website and past coverage. The taproom’s about page lists 2310 Shelby Street as its home base, and Indianapolis Monthly previously highlighted the brewery for its tight local ties. A Reddit discussion in January captured customers’ reactions when the owners announced a voluntary closure, and a user who said they were part of the staff used the thread to thank supporters.
What comes next
Any new operator at the site will have to work through zoning, permitting and liquor-license requirements before opening, and the state Alcohol and Tobacco Commission’s local board schedules have previously listed Garfield Brewery at this address. If Big Lug ultimately moves in, the company could restore regular evening and weekend activity along that stretch of Shelby Street and give Garfield Park visitors another stop within walking distance. Both IBJ and Big Lug say that details and a timeline are not yet firm, and updates are expected once official plans are released.
