Lion’s Tail Brewery Sets Sights On 2022 Wauwatosa Opening

WAUWATOSA, WI—Plans for a taproom and brewery to replace the former Wisconsin Garden & Pet Supply in Wauwatosa is one step closer to becoming a reality. Lion’s Tail Brewing Co., located in Neenah, closed on the property.

The brewery posted on Instagram announcing the news.

"As of about 15 minutes ago it’s OFFICIALLY OFFICIAL - We’re bringing this delicious Juice to Wauwatosa! We are now the official owners of the former Wisconsin Garden & Pet Supply buildings located at 8520 W North Ave. This second brewery and taproom (yes - we’ll also be brewing in Tosa!) will be open sometime in 2022! But don’t ask us when just yet. We can’t wait to join such a fantastic Milwaukee beer community and an incredible neighborhood like the one in Wauwatosa. We’re proud to be a small part of the growth we expect for this city in the years to come! Watch this space over the coming months for updates as we move forward with construction and design plans to make this second taproom one of the most exciting and entertaining places to enjoy a delicious, craft beer in all of Milwaukee! Tosa - we’ll see you soon!"

The proposal is for Lion's Tail Brewing Co. to take over 8520 W. North Ave., 8524 W. North Ave., and 2315 N. 85th St., according to city documents.

There is a total of 4,615 square feet of indoor space including renovated versions of the existing garden center (1,333 square feet), the existing pet center (2,228 square feet), and a concourse connector with restrooms (1,054 square feet) which will be new construction.

There will be an outdoor beer garden with seating in the existing covered greenhouse in front of the former garden center, as well as an uncovered area in front of the connecter concourse, the documents said.

The taproom will brew 1,000 to 2,500 barrels per year of high-quality, small-batch craft beer in many different styles, according to city documents.

There will be several different taproom and beer garden-style spaces where customers can enjoy beers and malt beverages (hard seltzer).

Products will be for sale in packaged (can/bottle) format and the brewery will also supply kegged beer to other bars/restaurants in the Milwaukee area.

In September the Planning Commission unanimously approved the plan.