The Shop Beer Co.: Tempe's Unique, Fast-Growing Brewery and Community Hub
Written by Angela Muniz
Photography by Mark Lipczynski
With the occasional hum of planes approaching Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and a nostalgic playlist of '90s hits playing softly, the patio at The Shop Beer Co. remains serene in the late morning. Behind the scenes, the brewery buzzes with activity. By happy hour, the taproom transforms into a lively spot filled with conversation and barroom energy.
Recognized as one of the fastest-growing breweries in the U.S., The Shop Beer Co. is thriving amid Tempe's evolving landscape. Located just a short walk from Downtown Tempe and south of Tempe Town Lake, this brewery occupies a historic building once home to two city mayors. Since opening, it has become a beloved gathering place for locals, workers, students, and neighbors.
Owners Dave Arnce, Dylan DeMiguel, and Jason Calhoon brewed for three years at Cartel Brewery before relocating in 2016. The unconventional house and industrial space wasn't an obvious choice, but as more traditional options fell through, their instincts proved spot-on.
"That's what drew us from the start—its inherently one-of-a-kind vibe," says DeMiguel.
They've leaned into that uniqueness, even in the name. "The Shop can mean anything," DeMiguel adds. "That's true for our beers too. We never say never."
The brewery maintains a core lineup always available on tap: Church Music, a juicy IPA; FYITM, a 10% ABV double West Coast IPA; and Coffee Brown, an ale also served on nitro.
It's their experimental brews that have earned cult status. As the brewery expanded with new equipment and staff, creativity flourished. "Tempe is still a niche beer town with explosive potential," Arnce explains. "This is where the fun lies—pure exploration."
Lead brewer Calhoon has crafted innovative series like the Neonic sour fruit ales, high-gravity stout Dream Crusher, and weekly Wednesday Randall infusions. The house patio now serves as a beer garden with food truck options or bring-your-own picnics—a favorite for locals planning casual nights out.
As Tempe grows, Arnce and DeMiguel embrace the diverse crowd. "Beer should be unpretentious—everyone just hanging out together," DeMiguel says.
"I'm thrilled to see it become the town's center," Arnce adds. "It's genuine, with plenty to do. Now, people call this their home base."
The Shop Beer Co. | 922 W. 1st St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 477-9212
