‘Stress-free zone.’ Inner Compass Brewing nears Bradenton-area opening after delays
Inner Compass Brewing Company has had its share of challenges since filing paperwork with Manatee County Building Services two years ago.
The latest came Thursday when construction workers stayed home as part of the Day Without Immigrants protest against Florida’s new E-Verify law.
But Susan Carrubba, who with her husband, Rob, and their son, Robert, are opening the new dining destination on 1.6 acres of lakefront property at 10316 Technology Terrace in Lakewood Ranch, is philosophical.
“It’s been a process, but we are finally seeing the light at the of the tunnel,” she said.
No surprise, the pandemic and the ensuing labor shortage and supply chain issues were real challenges.
One example was a 600-amp electrical panel that took four months to receive. Another was a shortage of wooden trusses. The Carrubbas decided to use metal trusses instead.
The family is breathing easier these days with plenty of actual construction happening and a certificate of occupancy projected for mid to late August.
“It’s going to be so nice, calming and comfortable,” Susan said of the 7,500-square-foot facility that will provide craft beer, wine, food, games, entertainment, a beer garden and event room in a lodge-like setting.
The menu will emphasize burgers, pizzas, wings and salads.
Inner Compass will also be family-friendly and dog-friendly, she said.
There will be plenty of seating: 120 in the event room, 25 at the bar, plus seating on a 2,500-square-foot patio, she said.
Susan and Rob Carrubba will manage the taproom and kitchen, and their son, Robert, will serve as brewmaster.
The Carrubbas have been residents of Lakewood Ranch for several years.
“Inner Compass Brewing Company was established in 2014 and opened in February 2016 in Sanford, Fla. My son and his partner opened this location in a small converted gas station. In January 2019, I bought the partner out and, with COVID, decided to take the opportunity to move to a much larger location,” Susan Carrubba previously told the Bradenton Herald.
“We want to cater to the golfing community and young families. We just want to provide a relaxing destination, a stress-free zone,” she said previously.
To follow progress on the completion of Inner Compass Brewing Company, visit the company’s Facebook page.
