Emory Village, a unique blend of academic energy and neighborhood charm, once boasted Slice & Pint Emory, a pizza and craft beer haven. More than just a restaurant, it was a community gathering spot, a place where memories were made. This article explores Slice & Pint’s journey, from its hopeful beginning to its untimely end, and examines its lasting impact on the Emory Village dining scene. Discover the unique treasures and charming atmosphere of the Prairie Peddler. For breathtaking views and fascinating history, explore the Presidio Visitor Center.
From Everybody’s to Slice & Pint: A New Beginning
Slice & Pint opened its doors on July 29, 2013, inheriting a location steeped in history—the former home of Emory Village icons Everybody’s Pizza (a 41-year institution) and Steady Hand Pour House. The weight of expectation was heavy. Could this newcomer capture the same community magic? Initially, Slice & Pint focused solely on pizza, delaying the in-house brewing operation that would eventually complete its “Pint” identity. This created a sense of anticipation within the community.
The Pint Arrives: Completing the Vision
Sometime between summer 2013 and fall 2016, the “Pint” arrived, fulfilling Slice & Pint’s original brewpub concept. Their presence at the Emory Village Open Streets event in October 2016 suggests the brewery had been operational for about a year. This addition of freshly brewed, handcrafted beer seemed like the perfect complement to their innovative pizza offerings. It also deepened their connection to the local community.
Why Slice & Pint Closed: Unraveling the Mystery
Sadly, in December 2017, Slice & Pint announced its closure, effective December 30th. The official reason given was the non-renewal of their lease, with co-owner Crawford Moran stating that continuing “just didn’t make sense.” This explanation, however, probably masked a more complex reality. Several factors may have contributed to the closure:
Rising operating costs in Emory Village: Rent, utilities, and ingredient costs could have strained profitability.
Increased competition: The Emory Village dining scene is dynamic, with new restaurants constantly vying for customers.
Brewery expenses: Maintaining brewing equipment and sourcing ingredients could have presented a financial burden.
Changing consumer preferences: Perhaps the demand for their specific style of pizza and beer shifted over time.
Further research into the specific reasons behind the non-renewal of their lease would be valuable in understanding the full picture.
The Menu: A Blend of Innovation and Local Flavor
Slice & Pint’s menu aimed to be more than just standard pizzeria fare. Crawford Moran, also the brewmaster at 5 Seasons Brewing Co., brought his culinary creativity to Emory Village, introducing unique pizzas like the Green Curry Pizza and a Pork Belly Pizza made with beer. The menu also featured house-made Riverview Farms pork rillettes and a Kale and Quinoa Tabbouleh salad, showcasing a commitment to local sourcing and seasonal ingredients. This emphasis on quality and community ties likely resonated with a segment of the Emory Village population. However, whether this approach had a significant impact on the broader dining scene is debatable. Further investigation into the evolution of the menu and the reasons for the initial delay of the brewery operation could offer further insight.
The Legacy: More Than Just Pizza and Beer
Slice & Pint’s closure marked the end of an era in Emory Village. Though short-lived, it became part of the community’s narrative, sparking conversations about local businesses, their challenges, and their impact. The restaurant’s story serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the dining landscape and the ongoing search for that perfect blend of delicious food, unique atmosphere, and community connection.
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