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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Tap Mobile brings beer to you

‘Hop Shop on wheels’ will visit events, is available for rental

With the explosion of food trucks these days, it was only a matter of time before someone came up with a beer truck.

The Hop Shop, 3803 S. Grand Blvd., is launching a traveling Tap Mobile to pour beer at both private and public events, the first of its kind in the state of Washington.

“Our goal is to take craft beer on the road, specifically Spokane craft beer,” said Mel Wood, owner of the South Hill pub. With eight taps, plus bottled beer and wines, she said, “It will be the Hop Shop on wheels.”

A kickoff event Friday to celebrate both the project launch and the Hop Shop’s fifth anniversary will feature the Tap Mobile in action plus live music and the Couple of Chefs food truck.

The Tap Mobile – affectionately nicknamed Black Betty – is a black-and-red 1982 Mini Blackbird bus that formerly served as a shaved ice truck in Portland. “She runs like a dream,” Wood said.

It will be available for weddings, parties and other private events within 100 miles. Wood also plans to do some public events, like concerts at The Gorge or Oktoberfest in Leavenworth.

Sandwiches will be available as well as wine and beer. Standard rental packages range from $2,400 for four kegs and six wines to $4,800 for all eight taps and 18 wines, with customized options available.

For more information call (509) 342-9436 or email thetapmobile@hotmail.com.