The heart of downtown Shawnee is well on its way to becoming known for its drink scene. James Beard Award finalist and cocktail bar Drastic Measures has been a major attraction to the area. And now Friction Beer Co. is soon to be added to Shawnee’s bar roster when it opens the end of June (11018 Johnson Drive Shawnee, KS).
The craft brewery is the brainchild of brewer Nathan Ryerson who partnered with former Boulevard Brewing Creative Director, Brent Anderson. Ryerson also operates a popular YouTube beer review channel “Behind the Bar.” The two are excited to bring their concept to life after years of shelving it.
Friction’s taproom will brew primarily pilsners, pale ales, double IPAs and stouts. Music is a large inspiration for both the owners, a passion that is seen on one of the taproom’s walls. It’s covered entirely in cassette tapes.
“We’re putting a ton of effort into making the taproom a space that becomes a hub of the community, but also one in which people want to hang out because it’s unlike anything else in the area,” says Anderson.
“There are tons of custom design elements that reinforce our brand while making it a place you remember. By next year we hope to be able to build out the upstairs beer hall/event space and patio.”
You may recognize Ryerson and Anderson from their appearances at the Parkville Microbrew Festival. Their standout beers have been the pale ale Throwing Sparks, along with some imperial stouts and fruited IPAs.
