Back in 2020, we first brought you a profile on Two Locals, and how they were aiming to change the beer scene in Philadelphia. In March of 2021 the brewery released its first cans, and later in 2021 announced they would be available at Eagles games. The time has now come for the two brothers behind Two Locals to find a space of their own!

Two Locals has signed on to build their brewery and taproom at uCity Square, on 37th Street in Philadelphia. This is a mixed-use development building on the Drexel University Campus that’s been around since 2018 and has never had a tenant. The new brewery has an estimated opening of late summer/fall 2023.

We spoke with Rich Koilor, co-owner of Two Locals, along with his brother Mengistu, to find out more about the location, and what beer fans can expect.

“I am excited to get started, brew some beer, and be a legit brewery. We are hoping to get more people in the community into craft beer and brewing.” – Richard Koilor, co-owner of Two Locals Brewing Company

The space is about 6,000 sq/ft with a little over 2,000 of that for the brewhouse, and about 1,300 for the taproom. The taproom will have a bar/dining area with a small private area as well. There will be 12 taps at the bar, with seating for about 10. In total, the brewery will have seating for about 80 inside, with additional outdoor seating space on the sidewalk.

Rich told us they want to have murals inside to represent Philly as well as their culture. HE described the future space as having lots of plants, natural light, and open space.

They are installing a 15 BBL brewhouse in the space, with some 30 BBL fermenters. Since they will be brewing it all themselves, Two Locals will end the contracting they have done over the last few years. The two most popular beers they make, Prolific Hazy IPA and Nubian Brown Ale, will of course be made. Rich told us they plan to make a good mix of lagers, IPAs, and stouts (specifically culinary stouts – not pastry stouts) not too sweet but still flavors. The brothers also want to make fruited/tart ales with different types of fruits that represent their culture (they are both Jamaican and Liberian).

For the Kitchen, the plan is to have bar food, staple dishes, and weekly specials that are influenced by their Jamaican background. Each month, they plan to feature a new restaurant to give them the opportunity.

Make sure to keep up with Two Locals brewery progress by following them on Facebook and Instagram.