Bazi Bierbrasserie, Portland’s premiere Belgian and European beer bar announced its plan to join the Thirsty Monk, Inc. family of breweries and pubs.
“It is with much delight that I announce Bazi Bierbrasserie will be joining the Thirsty Monk family, an organization that shares the same passion for Belgian beer and values a sense of community,” says Bazi Owner Hilda Stevens. “This provides an opportunity for my employees’ growth aspirations in the service industry while also aligning with an institution that embraces crafting exceptional Belgian-inspired beers and providing a superior customer experience.”
Over the past six years, Bazi Bierbrasserie has become a Belgo aficionado oasis, quickly receiving recognition in hop-centric Portland and at the national level. Bazi Bierbrasserie was named “Top 100 Beer Bars in America” by DRAFT Magazine for three consecutive years, “Top Beer Bars in Portland” by the Oregonian and Thrillist, “Portland No. 1 Soccer Pub” by the Oregonian, and “SE Portland Best Happy Hours” by Willamette Week.
“Bazi and Thirsty Monk have been on such similar paths since inception, with the experiences we offer patrons and seats on the same “Top 100 Beer Bars” lists,” says Thirsty Monk CEO Barry Bialik. “Hilda’s values, attention to detail, and compassion towards her employees resonates strong at Bazi, and those are all shared values of Thirsty Monk that make this addition to our family feel even more natural.”
Stevens will stay on staff at the Portland Thirsty Monk to help though the transition to ensure clientele continues to receive the same level of customer service they’ve come to expect at Bazi. “I’ve lived in Portland for 20 years and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to grow a business in such a welcoming community, but after Hurricane Harvey my priorities have changed personally. My intention is to eventually head south to be closer to my siblings and parents in Houston,” she says.
Bazi will officially become part of the Thirsty Monk family in mid-December, and the space will take on the Thirsty Monk name in early 2018. Plans include adding a small batch brewhouse in Portland.
