Closing one location, injecting fuel into the others
It was not an easy decision. These things never are. But after some serious number crunching, and a lot of earnest, emotional consideration, Big Block Brewing has decided to close its location in Redmond, Washington, where it has operated a production brewery and taproom since 2018. Beer production is moving to the company’s location in Black Diamond. The final day of operation at the Redmond taproom is set for this Saturday, September 12th.
Sure that’s bad news for the regulars at the Redmond location but, apparently, these days there aren’t many of those. The closure is necessary for the overall health of Big Block’s other, busier, locations. According to Jessica Harwood, Director of Operations at Big Block Brewing, the situation in Redmond was “simply not sustainable, and the deficit from Redmond has put too much pressure on our other locations.”
The company’s other locations –Carnation, Sammamish, and Black Diamond– will not be impacted. Well, that’s not quite true. The entire brewing operation is moving to Black Diamond, so that location will certainly feel the impact. Also, the closure will help bolster and sustain operations at the other locations.
In October 2025 Big Block Brewing moved into the former home of Lumber House Brewery (30741 3rd Ave #183). Since then, it has operated a taproom and restaurant there, slowly but surely injecting it with that Big Block vibe. Now Black Diamond will also serve as the home of the production brewery.
How Did We Get Here?
Jessica explains, “Over the last few years, Big Block has struggled to maintain profitability, largely due to the Redmond location. Revenue there has dropped dramatically since the 2020 pandemic closures. Foot traffic is extremely low—some days we see only two or three guests—and rising costs have compounded the issue.”
Jessica says that substantial increases to the rent and significantly higher operating costs were major factors in the decision. Combine that with the dwindling revenues at the Redmond taproom, and I suppose the writing was on the wall.
“While it will be emotional to say goodbye to Redmond, we know this is the right decision for Big Block and for our Blockheads (the brewery’s most ardent followers). Reducing operating costs is essential for both our short‑ and long‑term success.”
Jessica says the burden of remaining open in Redmond has affected every part of the business. “Once the move is complete, we plan to redirect resources toward critical needs: a new furnace and AC unit for Sammamish, expanding into the new space there; installing a sign and garbage service at Carnation; and restoring production budgets for seasonal brews that have been missing from the menu.”
The Good News
The Black Diamond location is already fully equipped for brewing. The infrastructure is in place and they have every intention of the same level of quality when it comes to the beer. They’ve already begun to move equipment and intend to start brewing at the new-to-them location very soon. When you visit, and you should visit, do not miss the queso and chips. Delish. All the food is good actually, but that queso slays. I digress.
“It’s a very quick turnaround, but getting brewing up and running in Black Diamond as soon as possible is crucial to keeping beers on the board,” said Jessica. “We are fortunate not to lose any staff during this transition, everyone is staying on.”
Want us to share your news here on the Washington Beer Blog? Click here to learn how to reach us.
