Discover how the Hillman family’s values and history shaped their award-winning craft beer destination in Asheville, NC. Explore the authentic, community-focused approach that makes this family-owned brewery unique.
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Behind the Brews: The Hillman Family’s Brewing Philosophy in Asheville
When you step into Hillman Beer, you’re not just walking into another craft brewery. You’re entering a space built on family bonds, genuine passion, and a commitment to creating something special. Since opening their doors in April 2017, Brad, Greig, and Brandi Hillman have brought a refreshing approach to Asheville’s vibrant beer scene. Their journey from brewing in a garage to establishing a beloved local institution showcases what happens when family values meet craft brewing expertise. Let’s explore what makes this family-owned brewery in Asheville, NC stand out from the crowd.
From Brooklyn to Asheville: A Family’s Brewing Journey
The story of Hillman Beer began back in 2006 when Brad Hillman started homebrewing in his Brooklyn apartment. What started as a hobby soon became a passion, and with the encouragement of his brother Greig and sister-in-law Brandi, Brad made the move to Asheville in 2015. The trio started brewing together in Greig and Brandi’s garage, creating their first beer – the Dingaudamnit Dunkelweisen.
This family collaboration wasn’t just about making beer; it was about creating something meaningful together. In 2016, they broke ground on their Asheville location near Biltmore Village, and by April 2017, Hillman Beer was officially serving the community. Their success led to a second location in Old Fort, opened in July 2020, expanding the family’s brewing philosophy to another North Carolina community.
Quality, Comfort, and Community: The Core of Hillman’s Approach
What sets Hillman Beer apart is their commitment to bringing “the pub style to the brewery experience.” Unlike breweries focused solely on experimental beers or trendy atmospheres, the Hillmans prioritize quality, service, comfort, and community in everything they do.
This approach has earned them not just loyal customers but industry recognition as well. Their dedication to quality has resulted in prestigious awards including a GABF Bronze for Four Fat Baby in 2017, GABF Silver for Hillman ESB in 2018, and GABF Gold for the same beer in 2019. These accolades aren’t just hanging on a wall – they represent the family’s unwavering commitment to brewing excellence without the pretension that sometimes accompanies craft beer culture.
Creating a True Community Space
Walk into either Hillman location and you’ll notice something different from many breweries. The atmosphere feels more like a neighborhood pub than an industrial brewing facility. With a kitchen serving pub-style comfort food like falafel wraps, buffalo chicken wraps, and grass-fed beef patty melts, Hillman Beer offers a complete experience that welcomes everyone – even four-legged friends (as long as they’re leashed and well-behaved).
This inclusive approach reflects the Hillman family’s belief that great beer should bring people together, not create exclusive clubs. Their spaces are designed for conversation, connection, and community – values that flow directly from the family behind the brand. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or someone who rarely drinks beer, you’ll find something to enjoy and a place where you belong.
Authentic Brewing in a Crowded Market
In a city known for its brewery scene, the Hillmans have carved out their niche by staying true to who they are. They don’t chase trends or try to outdo competitors with ever-more-extreme flavor profiles. Instead, they focus on brewing beers they love and creating spaces where people want to gather.
This authenticity resonates with locals and visitors alike. In an industry where corporate acquisitions and rapid expansion often change the character of once-independent breweries, Hillman Beer remains firmly rooted in family ownership and hands-on management. When you order a beer at Hillman, you might be served by one of the family members who created it – a personal touch that’s increasingly rare.
Come Be Part of Our Family
Ready to experience the Hillman difference? Visit us at our Asheville location (25 Sweeten Creek Rd) or Old Fort brewery (78 Catawba Ave) and taste what happens when family values meet brewing expertise. Our kitchens are open until 9pm daily, with the breweries open until 9pm Sunday through Tuesday and until 10pm Wednesday through Saturday. Bring your friends, bring your family, even bring your well-behaved dog – we’ve saved a seat for all of you.
At Hillman Beer, we’re not just serving drinks – we’re sharing our family’s passion, one pint at a time. We look forward to welcoming you into our community.
