Happy Gnome closing?

@islay

 

Well that sucks. Used to visit frequently when I lived in highland and still made it a point to stop in when I have time and I'm in the area.

Last time I was in there was a few months ago. Definitely going to stop in before the 22nd. Hopefully all the employees land on their feet.

 

Confirmed that it's closing, with employees understanding that the closure will be permanent. Last day of service is Sunday, 12-22-19. I'm told Augustine's (same ownership) is closing as well; I'm not sure if that one has the same closing date. I don't know the reason for the closure or plans (if any) by ownership or for the space.

It's a sad development for the local beer scene and for St. Paul. I've long considered The Happy Gnome one of the two beer bars that "matter" in the Twin Cities, the other being Republic (which The Happy Gnome predated by half a decade, 2006 versus 2011). I have many fond memories of The Happy Gnome, mostly from before the time that craft beer (beyond Summit EPA) was ubiquitous in Minnesota bars, including meeting there to help plan the 2007 RateBeer Summer Gathering as well as the first-ever release of Fulton beer in 2009.

 

Too bad loved the bar in the winter and outdoor porch/seating in the summer. One of the 1st that i remember back in the day to have Cantillon Kegs.

 

Really sad development , these are the kind of places that are essential to the beer scene here and to the cities ...can’t believe Augustine’s is going down with it too , another great spot.

 

When I lived in St. Paul we used to go frequently, but moving to the suburbs, along with the premium pricing, means we go maybe once or twice a year. But always sad to see a pioneer drop by the side of the road. The Gnome will be missed.

 

Well shit. Considering I was drinking there when I created this damn account, I feel like I should probably change the name.

 

The Pioneer Press has an article on the closure. It doesn't mention that Augustine's also is closing and if anything implies that it's staying open. The quote below makes it sound as though The Happy Gnome closing is a site-specific issue (although veteran watchers of business openings and closings know there's often more to the story than the public statements imply). I was told directly by a seemingly non-disgruntled current Happy Gnome employee that Augustine's would be closing too, but I'm less certain of that claim now (possibly an internal misunderstanding). My apologies if that's not the case, and I certainly hope The Happy Gnome's legacy can live on a couple of miles west on Selby. I'll try to get clarification on the status of Augustine's and report back.

“We are sad to announce that The Happy Gnome has decided not to renew our lease. Our last day in business will be Sunday, December 22. Thank you for 14 wonderful years of memories. Please stop by this week for one more pint with us!”

Loving the throwback beer list from 2006:

 

The Happy Gnome was ahead of their time, with beer prices...

 

I do remember them being a pioneer of the nearly $20 pitcher. This was when you could get pitchers for $12-14 at other places. Still sad to see an OG beer place closing.

 

I’m going to head there tonight to say goodbye - anyone know if they’re tapping anything good? How busy it is?

 

I'm not sure about tonight, but the majority of kegs (2/3?) had kicked as of Wednesday, and it was slammed. Still plenty of whisk(e)y as of Wednesday, if you're interested; maybe only 20% of the bottles had poured out.

 

Is the kitchen still open?

 

A lot of fond memories at the Gnome, very sad to hear.

 

RIP Happy Gnome, visited when going to college in MN and always stopped in any time in the Twin Cities since. One of my favorite beer locales anywhere in the nation, will be dearly missed!

 

I'm sure it's as simple as "business has fallen off", but are/were there any underling reasons for the Gnome closing? There hasn't been much talk on the reason for the closure.

I visited a few times when in town for Wild games & always thought this was a true beer destination location.

Is the popularity of tap rooms the cause for these great specialty beer bars closing? I know business 101, $$ in vs. $$ out, just wondering if there was more to it.

 

I’ve heard another reason, but I have no way to verify and I’m not going to start throwing around an unsubstantiated rumor. If it’s true though, I can certainly understand.

 

Happy Gnome used to be owned by the same individual that owned Busters on 28th. Nick Miller I believe? I think it was sold to Tony Anderson around 2009 who also opened St Augustine's in 2016.