According to a recent permit filing, Stoup Brewing Capitol Hill will be taking over the space that was previously home to Optimism Brewing located at 1158 Broadway in the Pike/Pine area.
A Stoup Brewing Capitol Hill representative did not immediately respond to What Now Seattle’s request for comment.
While an official opening date has yet to be confirmed, Stoup Brewing, currently located in the Ballard “Brewery District,” has established itself as a prominent brewery known for its award-winning beers and welcoming communal atmosphere. Founded in 2013 by Brad Benson, Lara Zahaba, and Robyn Schumacher, Stoup Brewing is the realization of a lifelong dream shared by three friends who share a passion for food and drink.
While it caters to families, the taproom is more than just a brewery—it embodies the core essence of beer as a catalyst for bringing people together, one pint at a time. Each of the co-founders left behind their “safer” careers to pursue their dream of opening a brewery: Lara had nearly two decades of experience in marketing and PR for wine importers, Brad had a career as a forensic chemist, and Robyn spent 13 years as a high school teacher. Their collective belief in the community-building nature of beer, coupled with their individual perspectives, contributes to the unique charm of Stoup Brewing.
Brad Benson, as the co-owner, head brewer, and director of brewing operations, brings over two decades of brewing experience to Stoup. With a science degree and a background in chemistry, Brad possesses a keen ability to troubleshoot and find quick solutions to brewing challenges. His brewing expertise spans various settings, from commercial production breweries to brewpubs and startups, not to mention his home garage.
Apart from managing the business, Brad’s responsibilities include overseeing brewing operations, recipe formulation, production and packaging, laboratory work, and, of course, brewing. While he appreciates a wide range of beer styles, he holds a special affection for the rich history of German and Belgian beers. When Brad is not busy brewing or handling business matters, he can often be found enjoying a refreshing Pilsner or an invigorating IPA.
Lara Zahaba, the creative director and co-owner of Stoup Brewing, possesses a deep appreciation for the culinary world and an innate sense of aesthetics. From industrial design to branding, fine wine, and craft beer, Lara’s artistic eye and refined taste influence every aspect of Stoup. She is responsible for the taproom’s ambiance, furniture, beer garden space, merchandise, and marketing materials.
With an 18-year background in marketing, public relations, and sales at wine importers specializing in Italian and Australian wines, Lara brings her English degree, fluency in Italian, and extensive international experience to the table. Having explored the world’s finest culinary destinations, Lara and Brad transform every vacation into a beer tourism adventure. She particularly enjoys indulging in pints of ale, ranging from Pale Ales and IPAs to Porters and Stouts.
Robyn Schumacher holds multiple roles within the company, including operations, brewery lead, and Cicerone. As the first woman in Washington state to achieve the prestigious title of Certified Cicerone, Robyn’s expertise in beer is akin to that of a sommelier in the wine world. Her passion for the craft is evident, and her 13 years of experience as a high school teacher have instilled in her a genuine concern for others, which shines through in her work at Stoup.
As a natural leader, Robyn possesses exceptional people skills that extend to both customers and staff members. Her considerate management style is complemented by a subtle sense of humor, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere at the brewery. Drawing from her background as an educator, she prioritizes safety in all aspects of operations, according to the company website.
