Our Story & History
Originally founded in 1885 as a winery, Belmont Brewing Company converted to a brewery after the rattling trains passing by caused the wine to be shaken in its barrels and not settle correctly.
Originally founded in 1885 as a winery, Belmont Brewing Company converted to a brewery after the rattling trains passing by caused the wine to be shaken in its barrels and not settle correctly.
Opening in 1890, Belmont Brewing Company successfully brewed and sold beer to Ohio and West Virginia residents and steel workers. In 1924 when West Virginia became a dry state in the Prohibition, sales skyrocketed as Wheeling residents walked from Wheeling Island to Martin’s Ferry in over-sized clothes to buy bottles of beer and smuggle underneath their clothing back to Wheeling.
Meanwhile, Belmont Products company bought Belmont Brewing Co.’s stocks, opened and ran until 1923 when Eick, Haid (founders) and a few other local men were indicted for violating prohibition laws and conspiracy. Eick was believed to have purchased and transported 5,000 gallons of grain alcohol, distributing it to the surrounding area for $10 a gallon. Belmont Brewing Company eventually re-opened on May 12, 1933. Cars and people lined up for 3 blocks to buy their beer again.
Being that there were only three breweries in the surrounding area, the company was bought and sold over the years, being passed along from owner to owner until eventually closing its doors for good in 1940.
In 2019, a group of individuals came together to bring back the long-closed brewery and give it a modern twist of their own but with a vintage flare. Opening in 2020, Belmont Brewerks was a new business nodding to the great Belmont Brewing Company, serving local, good quality food and hand-crafted cocktails.
In 2022, the Veon family embarked on a flavorful journey by assuming ownership of Belmont Brewerks, driven by a resolute mission to tantalize the palates of the Upper Ohio Valley. With an illustrious background spanning three decades in the food service industry, Rick Veon brings a wealth of expertise to the table, particularly in the realm of sandwiches. His culinary prowess was honed during an extensive tenure with a major restaurant chain and renowned establishment in the bustling Chicago area. Beginning with 14 units and blossoming into a formidable network of 48 locations, Veon's tenure exemplified his dedication and acumen. Prior to returning to his roots in Wheeling, Rick also garnered invaluable experience in the realm of steakhouses in St. Louis. Complementing Rick's culinary prowess is his wife Heather, who boasts a distinguished career of her own as a professional hairstylist in the Wheeling area spanning three decades. Together, they form a dynamic family unit, grounded by their shared commitment to quality and community, while their four children - Hunter, Eliana, Lucie, and Katie - provide the joy and inspiration that fuels their culinary endeavors at Belmont Brewerks.
The building itself has been completely renovated, inside and out, including a new outdoor patio and space that will eventually be able to be used year-round. 75-inch TV’s surround the restaurant that will hold around 50 guests.
We look forward to serving you!
