T-L File Photo/SHELLEY HANSON BELMONT BREWERKS is looking forward to the return of warmer weather so it can serve people in its outdoor dining space and turf area where people can eat, play bean bag toss, other games and listen to live music.

Owner says community is important to eatery

MARTINS FERRY — Belmont Brewerks, Martins Ferry’s newest downtown restaurant and bar, is gearing up for warmer weather and serving patrons in its outdoor dining area.

Co-owner Nicole Stephens said the eatery’s patio enclosure will remain available until May, but as the weather permits people will again be served outside in the turf area.

“We are currently lining up some outstanding live musical entertainment. We hope to have live acts every Saturday night when the weather starts to improve,” Stephens said.

“We are looking to expand the seating in the outdoor area and further enhance the outdoor dining experience. We want to increase the cornhole boards and other outdoor games available to play while waiting for a table.”

Stephens noted she is also hoping Ohio will soon allow for increased occupancy for restaurants as progress is made against the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We also plan to continue our exciting food and drink specials.”

Stephens noted the concept of community is “very important to us at Belmont Brewerks.”

“It will always come first. We have made a commitment to support other businesses, organizations and people of the Ohio Valley,” she said. “We have partnered with other businesses and organizations in Martins Ferry and the surrounding area to help grow together. We have all been through alot in the last year. We would not be here today without the support of our customers.”

Martins Ferry Mayor John Davies is happy the new restaurant opened in the downtown.

“It’s great to have a sit-down restaurant in town, a family-style restaurant. It has great food and reasonable prices. I’ve been there several times,” Davies said.

Davies noted people who live and work in the city are excited to have a new eatery to frequent. He’s hopeful the arrival of Belmont Brewerks will spur other entrepreneurs to open more restaurants and shops in the business district.

“We’re thankful for them moving into town and trusting the people of Martins Ferry to be successful. Everyone should try it,” he said.

Stephens noted Brewerks is always trying to improve its customer service and use feedback.

Stephens added that opening the business during the middle of the pandemic was a challenge, but the restaurant and its employees have “come out stronger on the other side.”

“We are fortunate that we have an all-star staff at the Brewerks. They are a major part of the success we are having. Our main goal has always been to create a memorable experience for every consumer,” she said.

“We hope that guests feel welcome and have an outstanding time when they make the choice to join us for dinner and drinks. Our ultimate goal is to make you feel like you are on vacation.

“We believe people are continuing to come back not only for the refreshing selection of Belmont Beers, the handcrafted cocktails, and the award winning food, but most importantly because of the fun that they have with friends and family.”

Martins Ferry City Council President Kristine Davis said she was happy for Belmont Brewerks’ success.

“It reminds me of one of our favorite restaurants in Rochester, New York, where people congregate outside because of the lights and outdoor seating. It attracts people just walking by,” Davis said.

“I have two things in particular that I appreciate about it. First, I really like the menu, which is a combination of favorites and some items you don’t see everywhere. The second is that — along with Subway, and the new Dance Factory building — it is one of the first places you see as you enter our business district.

“The first impression says, ‘Welcome! We’re open for business,’ which is the message we want to convey as a city, too. It’s just such a great addition to the downtown area,” Davis added.

Stephens noted Belmont Brewerks recently won Wheeling Health Right’s “Just Wing It” competition.

“It was a first-class event and we were very happy to be a part of it. Chef Beth Myers did an excellent job perfecting the Sassy Elephant Wing sauce. It is truly the best wing flavor I have ever tasted,” she said.

Belmont Brewerks is located at 15 S. Fourth St., Martins Ferry. Its current hours of operation are: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; closed Sundays and Mondays.