Guildy Pleasures: Warren’s first brewpub

The smallest town in the smallest state, Warren, RI, which was once known by most as a blink on the way to Newport, has experienced a renaissance in recent years. With a plethora of quality restaurants, Warren has slowly become a dining destination for New Englanders. Adjacent to the town’s Main Street is Water Street, which overflows with eateries like The Square Peg, Revival Craft Kitchen and Bar, Bywater, and the fresh-faced “The Wharf”, formerly known as The Wharf Tavern. Perhaps the most obvious pillar of Warren’s recent renewal is The Tourister Mill. The once-luggage-factory is unmistakable when coming over the two bridges into town. Now a luxury apartment complex, the Tourister stands as a beacon of change for the town and is bringing in new businesses left and right. The latest to hit the scene is Pawtucket-based brewery The Guild.

When The Guild’s first location in Providence was destroyed by a fire, co-owner Jeremy Duffy wanted to move into the Tourister Mill building, but the property’s owners already had a long-term vision that included the new 99 Water Street Apartments. 

“So, we moved on to Pawtucket,” Duffy said. “It is amazing that several years later we are back in Warren, at the original spot, to open our first small-batch brewery and beer hall.” 

The Warren location is the third endeavor for the beer company, following their most recent launch on the Providence Pedestrian Bridge with The Guild PVD Beer Garden.

With 140 seats indoors, and 40 seats on the gorgeous patio facing the Palmer River, The Guild Warren is continuing to staff up and expects to employ roughly 30 people. Local hires include General Manager Ed Levy and Head Chef Stephen Lima, both from Bristol. 

Over a dozen beer selections are available, including multiple Guild originals such as the Observatory – Pale Ale, Isle of White – White IPA, and new brew Warren G – Double IPA. Other offerings include a new Pear Cinnamon Seltzer by Willie’s Superbrew and Chair 2 Light Lager by Sons of Liberty. 

In addition to the abundant drink line-up, Chef Lima has created a substantial list of mouth-watering appetizers and small bites. Flash Fried Tri-Color Cauliflower, Smoked Pork Belly Nachos, and a Quinoa Salad Bowl to name a few. For protein, an array of sliders are available including burgers, chicken, and roast beef. 

“The energy around us opening was incredible and it has not stopped,” said Duffy. “We have seen terrific crowds since day one…. The nicest thing is that our biggest fans have been the tenants of 99 Water Street and the American Tourister. We are grateful for that.” 

The Guild is reciprocating Warren’s warm welcome with plans to collaborate with the town’s many restaurants and vast art scene. “We want to use Warren as a place of innovation and collaboration around our beers. We have a terrific seven barrel brewhouse that is ready to be that platform,” says Duffy. 

The Guild Warren, 99 Water Street, Warren, RI. Currently open Wed through Sun. Visit their website @theguildwarren for times.