Brewhaus employee serving up a classic cup of coffee.
The Basement Brewhaus: Best campus hang-out
The Pointer
ataub878@uwsp.edu
What started out as couches from rummage sales and lamps from thrift stores has transformed over the years into a coffeehouse pub and is now what University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point students call the “best campus hangout.”
Located in the basement of the Dreyfus University Center, The Basement Brewhaus started from scratch many years ago as a concept developed by a group of students. They wanted a place on campus where they could come and just hangout, a place that feels like a basement. And that is precisely what they got.
There is a garage door that opens to a room filled with second-hand furniture, pool tables, board games and darts. It was set on top of a cement floor and also serves food and refreshments.
But in this reproduction of a basement there never were, and still aren’t, any electronic games or entertainment.
“Just good, old-fashion fun,” said manager Ed Richmond.
However, even if the fun is still “old-fashioned,” the newly-renovated Basement Brewhaus is not.
Closed for nearly two years, The Basement Brewhaus reopened with new furniture, games and food.
“It has changed from just a basement, to a brew house,” said Richmond.
And by “Brewhaus,” Richmond is not only referring to the brewing of coffee; that’s right, he is referring to the ice-cold beer that is also served at this popular campus hang-out.
Students passing time together in The Basement Brewhaus.
Under age 21? Don’t worry. The Basement Brewhaus is a place for everyone. It is open to students, faculty, staff and guests to the university, such as freshman Jackie Lutze.
“It’s a great place for a laid-back night out,” said Lutze of the place she often utilizes for homework and hanging with her friends. Lutze enjoys playing board games and admits that she has spent up to five hours in a single day at The Basement Brewhaus.
“I like getting out of my dorm room and going to a nice, quiet, but yet social place,” said Lutze, who also likes to indulge in the specialty coffees.
The various coffees offered at the Brewhaus come from Stone Creek Coffee Roasters in Milwaukee, which suits the “all Wisconsin” theme that The Basement Brewhaus possesses. All the coffee, cookies, bars, bagels, pizza and more come from local companies such as: Morning Song Baked Goodness, Big Apple Bagels and Portesi Pizza. In addition, all the beer that is served is brewed in Wisconsin.
However, as many lounge in the inviting atmosphere of The Basement Brewhaus, others utilize what is called “The Workshop.” This additional space serves as a meeting room for up to 30 people at a popular location on campus. It is open to anyone and reservations can be made weekly.
So, next time you want a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of good brew and fun, give The Basement Brewhaus a try.
