Intrinsic Brew Pub Opening

Brewmaster Cary Hodson has a lot to celebrate on December 5, 2015. After a year of of Blood, sweat and tears, as his brother in law Casey Vincent described it, Hodson is finally opening his Intrinsic Brew & Barbecue Pub at 509 State Street on the Square in downtown Garland, on his 30th birthday.

A sea of stainless steel tanks, pipes and gauges occupy the west wall, leading to the bar and barbecue food service area. The burnt pine furnishings throughout were handmade by Hodson with the assistance of family and friends. The exposed brick was on the east side of the pub was covered with 2 inches of stucco and painted a very bright pink just one year ago, when Hodson signed the lease with property owner Robert Smith. The space was formerly occupied by Vixen’s Beauty Salon. The entire building had to be gutted and completely rewired to accommodate the brew pub and barbecue operation. There were disappointments and setbacks along the way, but the young brewmaster has prevailed and his pub is now open for business with rave reviews.

In addition to the craft beer on tap, homemade root beer and other sodas are also available, as is wine for the non beer drinkers, Hodson introduced us to a fellow named Tex, who is their pitmaster, offering up barbecue favorites including brisket, ribs, pulled pork, bologna and other specialities from the rig at the rear of the establishment. Their goal was to avoid being ordinary, and Hodson and his team have accomplished the place is extraordinary, inside and out. Take note of the elaborate bicycle parking facility outside the front door and be prepared for the unisex restrooms inside.  Those restrooms are not intended to be used by more than one person at any time, but can be used by anyone at all times

The building is 114 years old and was originally a clothing store. It required a monumental effort to bring it up to date and congratulations to Robert Smith and Cary Hodson for making it happen. This quality new business will contribute greatly to the revitalization of Historic Downtown Garland.