OUR STORY IS SIMPLE
A brewer and an Irishman, brought together by happenstance and a love of traditional pub culture and beer.
The Founding Fathers
Alec Blume II
CO-OWNER
Alec “AJ” Blume Jr. is a Downers Grove local and former head brewer with seven years in the craft beer industry. His passion for fermentation and classic styles remains strong, and he looks forward to exploring Irish and English pub traditions while helping foster a welcoming, community-focused space.
Micheal Ferris
CO-OWNER
Micheal Ferris is an Irish native from Castlecomer in north County Kilkenny, where community and tradition run deep. With countryside roots and growing up in a rural area, he developed a lasting appreciation for the character of the country pub and now hopes to bring that spirit of hospitality to Downers Grove.
A TOWN OF TWO RIVERS
Nestled between the River Deen and the River Brocagh in north County Kilkenny, Castlecomer is a historic market town shaped by both its landscape and its people. Its origins stretch back to Norman times, and in the 17th century it was carefully planned by the Wandesforde family, whose fortunes were closely tied to the rich coal seams beneath the area. For over three centuries, anthracite coal mining defined daily life, drawing generations of hardworking families and forging a strong sense of solidarity within the community until the mines closed in 1969. Today, Castlecomer honours that legacy through its mining heritage and local attractions, while its people remain proud, welcoming, and deeply connected to their town’s distinctive past.
MADE BY HAND
The pub woodwork was all made in Ireland by a family owned and operated joinery. We stuck firmly to traditional design elements and made a special point to include a snug off ofthe bar. When we got the pub installed, we found some local artists who did traditional sign painting and gold leaf work to finish off the authentic feel of our space. With our focus on traditional Irish and English pub ales, we wanted to cultivate the right feel and atmosphere in which to enjoy them.
