Locust Cider’s Gig Harbor taproom has changed owners and now operates as The Harbor Hideout at 3207 57th Street Court, the company announced on its website.
Locust Cider owners Jason and Rebecca Spears said pandemic and inflation pressures led them to restructure the business. They sought a buyer who would keep the taproom open.
The existing staff and arcade games are staying, and Locust Cider will remain on tap. The company will continue producing cider for wholesale customers but will no longer operate its own taprooms.
New owner Arthur Rodenhauser, who also operates Joysticks in Auburn, told What Now Seattle that the owner of the taproom’s arcade machines approached him about taking over. When Rodenhauser visited, the customers helped convince him to move forward.
The place reminded him of a neighborhood bar where he had worked for 12 years. The new name came from the taproom’s location, tucked behind the Inn at Gig Harbor and nearby businesses.
“It’s always fun to have a new challenge, and this seemed like a really cool opportunity to continue doing what I’ve been doing before. We’re going to be focusing on contributing to the community, so there will be food and a better place for everybody to hang out,” Rodenhauser said.
Rodenhauser is working through health and utility approvals to introduce food. He plans a menu focused on gluten-free dishes, with some other options, and expects to adapt the offerings to Gig Harbor customers rather than copy Joysticks’ menu.
He is also considering a small mini-golf course and additional interactive video games. For now, classic games are a priority. He hopes to expand the back area for events, including bingo and potentially karaoke or open mic nights.
Follow The Harbor Hideout on Instagram for events and updates.
