We recently connected with Craig Altobello and have shared our conversation below.

Craig, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. To kick things off, we’d love to hear about things you or your brand do that diverge from the industry standard.

At Magic Bear Beer Cellar we focus on the education and elevation of beer. Many businesses in beer, whether a brewery or beer bar provide a similar experience in a similar atmosphere. Typically this involves a male dominated base clientele in an often industrial or “man cave” type of vibe. Where there has been a shift towards a higher end vibe to some breweries as of late, I sought out to create an environment that was welcoming to all. A wine or cocktail bar vibe, but still focused on beer. Beer often gets a bad wrap as a simple beverage and I feel it takes a back seat to nothing. The history and culture that comes with beer as well as the current beer culture is one to be celebrated and explored. Magic Bear also provides educational classes for the beer enthusiast to enjoy some culture and history as well as some great quality food and beer. When contemplating the business model, I felt the need for this as my wife often does not enjoy visiting breweries and beer bars as much as I do. They are not as inclusive, especially if beer is not your main drink of choice. They are not the most comfortable setting either – metal chairs, wrought iron and Edison bulbs everywhere, I built Magic Bear to be a one stop shop for everything beer, that all can enjoy – even the non beer enthusiast.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

After 20+ years in the hospitality industry, the COVID-19 pandemic provided me an opportunity to pivot my career path. As a previous Business Director and Director of Operations in the industry, I felt well equipped to begin my own business. With a new passion for craft beer during the 2010 boom and previous career in education, I knew the beer industry was where I wanted to land but wanted to incorporate my passion for teaching.
There was a need for a more elevated, approachable, and comfortable beer experience. A welcoming atmosphere to explore and learn about beer. It was no secret that the craft beer industry was growing, but many people seemed like outsiders looking in but definitely wanted to be a part of it. Magic Bear was designed around small semi-private classroom where I could combine my background in beer and education.
To help validate my knowledge and ability to teach others, I studied for over a year and obtained the level of Certified Cicerone. A title that I am proud of and now allows me to be a tour guide in the world of beer.
Along with over 200+ beers for enjoyment onsite or to-go, we offer a variety of beer classes for enthusiasts or craft beer beginners. These classes are our differentiator when it comes to your typical beer bar or store. We offer three main types: Cultural classes where we explore a specific beer culture and the history of the brews (ie German, Belgian, UK, etc). Stylistic classes where we explore a family of styles (ie IPAs for Days, Shout For Stouts, Let’s Talk Lagers etc). Pairing classes where we focus more on the principles of pairing food and beverage (ie beer with cheese, sweets, cured meats, etc).
Outside of beer we offer wine by the glass, cider, seltzers, mead, non-alcoholic options, and a small but shareable food menu. We want all to feel welcome at Magic Bear.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

The COVID-19 pandemic left me unemployed for a bit. I began with some hospitality consulting but pivoted toward entrepreneurship as means to take control over my career. It has allowed me to control my path and I am doing something I truly enjoy daily.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

I have been fortunate to be a good saver when it comes to my finances. I was also fortunate to achieve higher up positions in the hospitality industry at a relatively young age. With a solid business plan and personal contribution I was able to secure an SBA loan and begin building out my physical location.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.magicbearbeer.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicbearbeer
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MagicBearBeer
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/craig-altobello
• Other: https://www.cicerone.org/us-en/users/craig-altobello

Image Credits
Set Sail Design Avery and Harlow