Barry’s Homebrew Outlet has a new home in Fishtown (at 1447 N. American St.). The shop – a fixture at the corner of Front and Snyder in South Philly for nearly 15 years – recently underwent management changes, and more space was desperately needed, so the move to the newly hopping neighborhood was undertaken earlier this year. No need to fear, however, as even more of the same goods will be offered at the same low prices. Read on for the story of the homebrew haven.

Barry Mulherin launched Barry’s Homebrew Outlet at the corner of Front and Snyder in South Philly in October of 1996. Stocked with everything you would need to make your own beer, wine or mead at home, the store was a quick success, and Barry spent nearly every day helping burgeoning homebrewers with supplies, advice and classes.

In 1999, Jimmy McMillan discovered Barry’s shop, and was immediately intrigued. A chef by trade, he didn’t have beer-making experience, but hit it off with Mulherin, and began to contribute strategic and product development ideas to the outlet.

Around three years later, Nick Less came on the scene. Born in Kentucky, Less lived for a time in England with his father, who was brewing at home long before the trend exploded in the U.S. Wanting to recreate that, Nick purchased a brewing kit from Barry, and – following careful instructions – successfully brewed his first Oktoberfest. He quickly realized he had a knack for and interest in homebrewing, and worked his way into a full time position at the shop.

After 15 years, Barry found himself in failing health, and he started contemplating a sale of the business. Who better than his loyal friends, Jimmy and Nick? Earlier this year, the outlet was sold,  and the new Barry’s Homebrew Outlet opened on September 24, with around three times as much space as the original store.

The new outlet is open noon–7 PM, Tuesday–Friday and 10 AM–5 PM Saturday–Sunday. Reach the staff with any questions or ideas at info@barryshomebrew.com or 215-755-4556.