Craftsmen Interviews are designed to introduce you to dedicated, hard-working local makers that are cultivating local culture. Short, easy reads that impart valuable knowledge and inspire you to explore and support authentic endeavors. Stay ahead of upcoming trends and get recommendations from those helping to build their community. (-Learn more)
We sat down with founder, “software guy,” Dan (who just so happens to be married to Tristan’s cousin,) knew he could build a state of the art facility, but doing it in under just one year? He did that too. Known as “Beer that Rocks,” the harmonious marriage between quality and innovation is hard to deny. Never settling for anything less than delicious, their two assistant brewers produce phenomenal flavors by building on what they have accomplished. You may have seen one of their most famous brews on tap at a local bar near you (shoutout to the Tupelo Honey!)
You don’t need to head up to the cities for an amazing local brew anymore. Eagan’s first (and only) brewery, Bald Man Brewing, just celebrated their 4th birthday! Though it all started in 1992 with THE bald man, Tristan (head brewer), brewing in his garage, they continue their refreshing legacy with not only a strong community presence but with true family flair.
Dan Jacobs- Maker Mini-View
The taproom was really designed to be a place for our family and yours. We made sure that everyone would feel welcome, and it’s designed around all our favorite things.
Bald man is family run? Who’s all involved?
There is fenced-in, and dog friendly for my wife. It’s a cozy way to spend the day, petting your dog, enjoying some beers and a fire (patio hosts 8 propane heaters, 5 fire pits, and 2 brand new outdoor tv’s).
We have state of the art brewing equipment for my brother-in-law Tristan, who has kinda been the family’s anchor for everything craft beer.
At every family gathering we’ve always had music, and so we wanted to have a stage. It was important for us to have music for the area, and we try to have live music every weekend.
My daughter Natalie is one of our biggest assets; she is the bar manager and trivia host (last Tuesday of every month).
You Keep mentioning how proud you are to be a community brewery in eagen; what are you up to?
“In 2020 we got a Green Ribbon Award for community action… Bald Man’s team is constantly searching for ways to actively impact change.
We have a few “Fundraising Beers” such as Juice Box Hero, which donates $1 from every sale to the BCA association. Our Hold the Line Hazy Pale Ale raised over $5000 for ALS. We just like to put our money where our heart is. Though this year has been different and difficult for almost everyone, Bald Man has not, and will not, forget our passion and power to help.”
As someone that lives and goes out in the area extensively, where else do you recommend?
“The brewery is right across the way from the Outlet Mall, and I spend a lot of my time here. But if you don’t see me in-house, my favorite local haunts are, Fitz’s (bar and bowling) and Jensen’s (Supper Club) – a pair of phenomenal hangout spaces nearby.”
Hard to pick a favorite beer, everything we make and put on tap is amazing. If I had to pick, Misty Mountain Hops is my go-to brew, being delicious, well rounded, with no big bite.”
A Map to Dan’s Recommendations
(click on the layers filter and select Dan Jacobs – Bald Man Brewing)
Bald Man Brewing, Eagan, MN
Est. 2016 by Dan Jacobs & Tristan Kusnierek
2020 Silver Bell Rd # 28, Eagan, MN 55122 / (651) 600-3164
Beer Recommendation: Misty Mountain Hops / Tupelo Honey Brown Ale – View tap list
Bald Man’s Taproom is a large open brewery with front and back patios, private event spaces, and views of the brewing equipment (with fermenters named after their favorite rockers).
Food? No need to worry about planning for a nibble to eat before or after, Bald Man welcomes delectable food trucks into their ample parking lot to serve up hot fresh bites (Market Street BBQ was there when interviewing, and did not disappoint!) If the food truck isn’t tickling your fancy, there is a vast array of wonderful restaurants that deliver your favorites right to their brew hall.
Passport to Bald Man Brewing
Bald Man Brewing is featured in Craft Notes’ all-beer edition – MN Craft Brewers Guild Collaboration MN Craft Brewers Guild Passport and on our Mobile App. Additional photos and video tour on instagram.