HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
Number 9 North Front Street has been home to many business establishments over the years. What began as a dry goods store in 1865 became the largest carpet store in the state with a dentist office upstairs, a purveyor of Kuppenheimer suits, the showroom of George Steiff with musical instruments and Crosley radios, and Foy, Roe & Company. This men’s clothing store occupied the building from 1940 until 1982.
What’s in a Name
Front Street Brewery began producing award winning craft beer in June of 1995 on, you guessed it, Front Street in the heart of downtown. The building had sat vacant from 1982 until 1994 when we breathed life back into this historic corridor.
We are the ILM OGs
Front Street Brewery is North Carolina’s 7th brewery to open and Wilmington’s longest operating brewery. With nearly 20 breweries now in the area, FSB is still the Original! Now, we are able to work, collaborate, and drink with other craft brewers in our region to make some of the best beer in the state!
THE STORIED PAST OF 9 NORTH FRONT STREET
With the lively historic city of Wilmington in its backdrop, 9 North Front Street swung open its doors while the Civil War’s Second Battle of Fort Fisher was underway. Since then, it’s been a mainstay in the community, evolving as the city navigated through the Reconstruction, welcomed the 20th century, and contributed to World War II shipbuilding efforts.
The list of the building’s occupants is equally storied. Starting as a dry goods store in 1865, it later became home to the most extensive carpet store in the state. After which, it became a purveyor of Kuppenheimer suits. Then, in 1922, a fire struck the building. Burnt but not out, 9 Front Street later housed several other tenants, including Charles M. Steiff’s showroom for musical instruments and Crosley radios. Then from 1940 to 1982, the building became the home of Foy, Roe & Company, a men’s clothing store. Finally, in 1995, we took over. And you can say the rest is craft beer history!
OUTDOOR DINING & DOG FRIENDLY
Enjoy a delicious, freshly made meal with us while basking in Wilmington’s laid-back coastal vibe. Our outdoor patio is the perfect spot for beers, sandwiches, and wings to meet up with friends. Or maybe you’re looking to grab lunch before heading to the coast with your four-legged best friend? Well, come on by. We’ve got room for all of you!
Our location on Front Street in the heart of downtown makes our outdoor seats the perfect place to people-watch as the sun sets in our beautiful city. With the salt in the air and craft beer in your hand, you’ve got the makings of the perfect night out.