Outworld Brewing’s pod idea perfect fit for distance dining
Outworld Brewing in Longmont, the self-proclaimed “interstellar trading post,” is now open but with social distancing measures in place, using isolation pods that allow safe and socially distant seating inside the brewery.
The family-owned brewery opened just before shutdowns occurred in March because of the coronavirus. When they opened, the pods were called “escape pods,” but after reopening, they learned that guests were enjoying them specifically because of the ability to socially distance within them. Their name was then changed to isolation pods, inspired by the pandemic and the increased interest by guests. The brewery is now hoping the pods help guests socially distance as well as offer a unique dining experience, Brenda Fuller, the owner, said.
“I think Disneyland has a scifi restaurant; we’re not that,”
Fuller said. “But it is a place where we are building out an experience that is based on and sort of influenced by a fantasy theme.”
The escape pods have floorto-ceiling metal walls and overhead lighting that can change color. Fuller said she wants to have live music when it is safe, but guests currently can watch what’s on the screen in front of them inside the pods.
“You can feel like you’re in your own space,” Fuller said. “With the escape pods, it’s curved and have your back up to a metal wall in an enclosed space.”
The pods offer a socially distanced way to enjoy the brewery. Guests can eat and drink in the pods with about six people, Fuller said.
“It is a place to come and be a part, but yet be within your own little enclaves,” she said.
Fuller said she plans to add more elements to the brewery in months ahead to enhance the experience such as trivia nights. She also has created the brewery’s own alphabet inspired by the fantasy theme.
The brewery is one of three Black-owned breweries in the Boulder area, said Bart Watson, chief economist for the The Brewery Association. Almost 90% percent of breweries in Colorado are white-owned businesses, and only 23% percent of those owners are women, Watson said.
Outworld has partnered with the Black is Beautiful Initiative, featuring beers as “Black is Beautiful.” Half of the profits from this beer goes to the initiative, which raises money for social justice causes, according to a news release.