Funky Picnic set to open in Fort Worth, June 26

Image credit: Funky Picnic Brewery & Café.

Initial batches are underway and a date has been set at Funky Picnic Brewery & Café, as the company prepares to open its doors in the Near Southside neighborhood of Fort Worth.

A labor of love for homebrewers turned co-founders Samantha Glenn, Collin Zreet, Jenni Hanley and John Koch, the project has been in the works since the group first came together as The Fort Brewing Co. prior to 2014. Now realized as Funky Picnic Brewery & Café, what they've developed is a beer and food destination "built upon a shared love of beer, bread and the great outdoors."

On the brewery side, Funky Picnic promises to offer "craft beer for every taste." Led by Michael Harper (formerly of Oak Highlands Brewery and Texas Ale Project), the company's portfolio will mix classic styles with creative and unexpected combinations. Recipes will range from a crisp, refreshing pilsner, to a saison-tripel hybrid brewed with prickly pear cactus, agave nectar and pink peppercorns.

Regarding the culinary aspect, Chef Josh Rangel will serve artisan sandwiches, along with a selection of appetizers, salads and desserts (vegan options will also be available). Naturally, customers can expect beer to be incorporated into many menu items, some of which include beer cheese fondue, beer bacon jam, and house-made pickles dilled in pale ale.

As for when this all comes together, Funky Picnic will debut its spot at 401 Bryan Ave., Suite 117, on Wednesday, June 26. Following that, look for an official grand opening event to take place in July.