Bars Beers Breweries Steve Fraga Beer Photography
Beyond the Brews: Discover Gristworkz
Jackie VonPanda
Tucked in the Hardy Yards neighborhood just north of Downtown, Gristworkz stands out as a true neighborhood hub, where bold flavors and community vibes come together in an industrial-style taproom. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by vibrant murals, soaring ceilings with exposed beams, and garage-style doors that open to a breezy, dog-friendly patio. It’s casual and welcoming—whether you’re rolling post-ride, flying solo, or catching up with friends.
Behind the bar, co-owner Dave Sorrell, a Certified Cicerone and longtime force in Houston’s cocktail scene, is making sure the beer lineup stays both approachable and thoughtful. Recent releases include Corn Star, a clean and crisp American Lager that clocks in at 5.2% and practically begs to be enjoyed on the patio; Flip Flop Cowboy, a malt-rich Amber Ale with backbone and balance; La Llorona, a 4.7% Mexican-style lager with a subtle bite; and Side Gig, their ever-changing seasonal sour that brings funk and fruit in all the right ways.
Chef Bobby Mireles runs the revamped kitchen, serving up dishes that go far beyond your standard bar fare. Think rotating monthly pizzas and burgers, crispy Smoked-Then-Fried Wangz with juicy, smoky interiors, and addictive Brussels sprouts tossed in Szechuan sauce. The Chicken Tikka pizza is a standout, and The Champ—a one-time special turned permanent menu item—is a fan favorite for good reason.
Gristworkz also keeps things exciting with weekly specials that hit the sweet spot between value and creativity. Mondays feature the playful “Drink Like a Cornstar” deal—Corn Star Lager, a corndog, and a shot of Mellowcorn for just $10. Tuesdays are all-day happy hour, Wednesdays offer Prime Ribeye Steak Night with half-off wine, and Thursdays are built for casual dates with a pizza and two-house pints for $22. The weekend brunch, running from 11AM to 3PM, strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and lively.
More than just a brewery, Gristworkz is a gathering place for all kinds of people. The full cocktail bar caters to non-beer drinkers, and just outside, the Palo Santo coffee truck brings even more community energy. Run by couple Mikky and Meka, Palo Santo opens early Tuesday through Sunday—offering an eclectic lineup of coffees, house specialties, non-coffee drinks, and even light bites. Open even when the brewery is closed, it’s become a morning staple for locals looking for great coffee and good vibes.
Gristworkz also serves as a clubhouse of sorts for local bike crews and F1 fans, who regularly pack the taproom for spirited race watch parties. It’s a place where good beer, good food, and good people come together—with intention, and with heart.
Gristworkz is located at 1504 Chapman Street, 77079. Find them on social media too – @gristworkz(IG) @palosantohtx(IG) or website – gristworkz.com
All photos by and used with permission of Steve Fraga.
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