Star Wars-Themed J. Wakefield Announces Closure | Eater Miami

"A Star Wars-themed brewery in Wynwood best known for its Florida weisse–style beers that use local tropical fruits announced it will close on October 27 after nearly a decade. The founder, Johnathan Wakefield, says the decision was driven by the global pandemic, rising rents, reduced foot traffic and street closures from construction that eroded the neighborhood’s earlier walkable, creative energy; the team tried cost-saving measures (like closing Mondays) but the numbers didn’t add up. While the Wynwood taproom will shut, core beers such as El Jeffe and Hop for Teacher will continue to be brewed and distributed, and Wakefield is looking for a smaller-scale production model with contract brewing and a taproom paired with a permanent restaurant (no more food trucks or pop-ups). Plans include a October goodbye blowout with industry friends, photographing the iconic Star Wars murals for possible prints, and offering the giant Han Solo–in–carbonite communal table to anyone interested." - Laine Doss