“Hot diggity dog!” Little Apple Brewery Company owner Kelly Loub exclaimed. “This is unexpected!”
It was certainly a surprise to Russell and Kelly Loub to hear that their restaurant had won the Purple Apple Award for Best Weekly Food and Drink Specials, but for Kelly it was more than just a surprise.
“It’s an honor to be recognized and supported by your community,” she said. “We have many wonderful independent restaurants in Manhattan, so winning the 2015 Purple Apple Awards for ‘Best Weekly Food and Drink Specials’ is spectacular.”
Located at 1110 Westloop Place, Little Apple Brewery has a history as interesting as it’s owners.
“Labco (Little Apple Brewery Company) will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2015; it’s Manhattan’s first brewery since the late 1800s,” Kelly said. “An opportunity came to re-open Labco and we took it. It’s been a journey – a wonderful and arduous journey. Wonderful due to the thousands of people we have met, friendships made, awesome co-workers and awesome patrons. Arduous when you work 60-80 hours a week, with very little time off.”
The work seems daunting, but the Loub’s top priorities keep them going.
“Our main priorities are making quality, affordable food and beer, supporting local farmers and creating a wonderful work environment for our employees,” Kelly said.
It’s exhausting work, but the two are clearly right for the job.
The duo share quite the impressive resume, it’s no wonder they never seem to have a free moment. Having been in the business for over 30 years, Kelly first developed an interest in the bar and restaurant industry from her parents. They own a neighborhood bar and restaurant in Kansas City, which sparked her interest.
Meanwhile, Russell “simply loves cooking” according to Kelly. Having been in this industry since he was 13, on top of attending Johnson and Wales culinary school, has given him the opportunity to create a menu that the two describe as very “beef centric.”
If beef isn’t what you were looking for, don’t worry! The two have noted the “diverse patronage reflective of the KSU community” and have mirrored it in their specials menu. Kelly said they both “enjoy exploring a variety of ethnic cuisines, supporting our local farmers, and brewing seasonal beers.” Something for everyone, indeed!
If you need a respite from classes, stop by Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays the brewery is open from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Looking forward, the Loubs said they are excited to expand their base.
“We have come to be known for ‘Great Steaks, Great Beer,’” Kelly said. “But see ourselves continuing to evolve into a destination reflective of Kansas.”
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