Wayfinder Beer, a popular brewery known for its heavy metal, pagan, and gothic light-influenced atmosphere, is making a bold move from its original location in inner eastside Portland to a new flagship location in Troutdale. The brewery has been a favorite among beer enthusiasts since it opened in 2016, offering cutting-edge lagers and IPAs that have garnered a loyal following. The new location at The Highlands, a two-story food court and drink hall, marks a significant expansion for Wayfinder as it ventures into new territory.
The decision to move Wayfinder to Troutdale was carefully considered by operations manager Annie Brix, who wanted to ensure that the new location would not cannibalize sales from the original pub in Southeast Portland. The Highlands, with its panoramic views of the Troutdale skyline, presented a unique opportunity for Wayfinder to establish a presence in a vibrant and growing community. Brix was involved in every aspect of the design and development of the new location, working closely with the landlord to create a space that reflects the spirit of the original Wayfinder pub.
The Highlands features a lower ground-level bar where Wayfinder serves its signature beers, along with a selection of cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options. The taproom opens up into a beer garden surrounded by food trucks offering a variety of cuisines, including Gyro King, Happy Sushi, and Lulu. In addition to Wayfinder, The Highlands is also home to Checkerboard Pizza, a beloved downtown Portland favorite that has found a new home in Troutdale. The food court will also feature Gone Gaming, a tabletop shop, and Happy Cones, a Hawaiian ice cream scoop shop.
Checkerboard Pizza, owned by Wayfinder co-founder Matt Jacobson, is a testament to Jacobson’s love for pizza. The pizza chain, originally created by master baker Ken Forkish, offers a unique blend of New York-style slices with high-quality ingredients. Despite facing challenges during the pandemic, Checkerboard has found a new home at The Highlands, where it will continue to delight pizza lovers with its delicious pies.
The grand opening of The Highlands on Saturday, August 31, promises to be a lively event, with mini concerts featuring local musicians and a festive atmosphere. The event will showcase the unique charm and authenticity of Troutdale, a town known for its outdoor activities, friendly community, and stunning scenery. Brix and the Wayfinder team are excited to be a part of this vibrant community and look forward to welcoming guests to their new flagship location.
In conclusion, the relocation of Wayfinder Beer to The Highlands in Troutdale represents a new chapter for the popular brewery. With its unique atmosphere, delicious beers, and diverse food options, The Highlands is poised to become a destination for locals and visitors alike. The grand opening celebration on August 31 will be a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Wayfinder team, who have created a space that reflects the spirit of the original pub while embracing the charm of Troutdale. Visit The Highlands to experience the best of what Wayfinder Beer and Checkerboard Pizza have to offer in this exciting new location.