Photo courtesy of Cask and CleaverCask and Cleaver Brewery in 100 Mile House has only been open since May 2022, but it’s already gained a reputation for its inclusive environment, really great beer, tasty bites — and for sparing no expense when it comes to its choice of toilet paper. (You’ll read more about that later.)
Former Chilliwack residents Daniel Braaten and Neale Ward, who had both recently relocated to 108 Mile House, saw an opportunity when Jackson’s Social Club on Highway 97 closed and the building went on the market. It was then the friends came up with a plan to create a Viking-themed pub with an old-school attitude where the community could gather and never feel rushed out the door.
As part of The Growler’s ongoing “Five Questions With…” series, Ward offered some insight into what’s behind Cask and Cleaver.
What’s the inspiration behind the name?
The inspiration came from a bit of brainstorming between trusted friends with the idea that we were planning to brew beer and we would be obtaining the meat we were using in our tasting room from a local butcher. “Cask” representing beer and “Cleaver,” the butcher.
How did Cask and Cleaver come to be?
Dan had already moved to the 100 Mile House area in mi- June 2021, and I had plans to move up the following January. Dan was already working for his family’s butcher shop in the area (inspiration source for “Cleaver,” when he noticed the brewery in 100 Mile House had closed and was up for sale. He called and suggested the idea of buying it and opening it under our own vision.
Dan has been in the industry for nearly 15 years with a passion for brewing while I was able to bring my interests as a hobby chef and background in business. Prior to moving to the area, we began discussions with the previous owner and planned a new image and style.
Our style pulls on the spirit of old-world public houses in a rustic ambiance with a bit of Norse/Scandinavian flair. By March 2022, we had possession and began renovations ourselves in order to successfully open May 4, 2022.
What would you consider the hidden gem of your brewery or taproom?
It is a little tongue-in-cheek, but we will only use quality two-ply toilet paper in our washrooms!
How and why is your brewery part of your local community?
Community is one of the core values of our business. We support local artists, crafts people and businesses through partnerships and by providing a space for them to present their craft and wares at no cost to them. This allows them to share their craft with the community in a family-friendly, public-house style venue.
What five words would you use to describe Cask and Cleaver?
Safe, inclusive, community-partner, quality, unique.
