It’s last call for The Growler Exchange’s Midtown shop. The owners of the popular neighborhood hangout craft announced that the 914 E. Elmira St. craft beer bar will permanently close on December 13 after two years of business.
“With all the memories and great times, it’s tough to say this, but our Midtown location is closing,” the owners wrote on an Instagram post. “Don’t worry, we wouldn’t do it without some beer specials for all of you.”
Sure enough, Growler Exchange fans can help to clear out the remaining inventory during the last days of business. Specials this week include $5 pints and 30% off growler fills.
The owners also reminded patrons to bring their own food to the bar because the on-site kitchen will not reopen during these final days of operations. The beer bar is open noon-11 pm, Thursday and Friday, and noon-10 pm, Wednesday and Saturday, the final day.
The Growler Exchange did not give a reason for closing the Midtown location, but the post-COVID era has been a particularly tough time for the craft beer industry. Since 2022, the San Antonio area has seen the closure of several breweries and taprooms.
Local craft beer bar chain Big Hops has had multiple franchises close in recent years, with the Potranco Road storefront being shuttered earlier this fall. San Antonio’s Vista Brewing location, Künstler Brewing’s Tap Haus, Man Overboard Brewing, and Freetail Brewing’s Southtown location also tapped out in 2025.
The craft beer industry is struggling nationwide, according to media reports, many of which point to inflation, rising business expenses, and changing drinking habits.
However, The Growler Exchange’s owners said it is business as usual at their well-established Mahncke Park shop at 4130 Broadway St., where 30-plus beers are currently on tap and various types of pizza are baked fresh.
“Don’t worry, folks, Broadway is here to stay,” The Growler Exchange Midtown post stated. “Long live The Growler Exchange!”“Don’t worry, folks, Broadway is here to stay,” The Growler Exchange Midtown post stated. “Long live The Growler Exchange!”
