About River City Brewing | Wichita’s Original Brewpub
Located in the heart of Old Town in Wichita, Kansas, River City Brewing has been a cornerstone of the local craft beer scene since 1993. As Wichita’s original brewpub, we’ve built our reputation on handcrafted ales, thoughtfully prepared food, and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests return year after year for the experience.
We offer a rotating selection of craft beer with up to 16 beers on tap. Our lineup includes seasonal brews inspired by beer styles from around the world. These beers pair with palate-pleasing recipes made from quality ingredients. River City Brewing continues to honor tradition while embracing modern creativity.
Our History
In a grand return to Kansas brewing tradition, River City Brewing opened its doors in March 1993. We were the first brewpub in Wichita and only the third brewery to open in Kansas in more than half a century. From the beginning, fresh food and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere have been the cornerstones of our operation.
Tradition matters here. We chose our Old Town location because it reflects the heritage of Wichita and supports the renewal of Kansas’s brewing legacy. The cobblestone streets, massive timber beams, and historic surroundings create what many consider the quintessential Midwest brewpub setting. That sense of history keeps us grounded and gives River City Brewing a true place in time.
A Building with a Story
Our home has a past as rich as the beer we brew. The three-story building to the south was constructed in 1905 by the Bennett Paint Company for $12,000. By 1909, the adjoining two-story structure had been added, and the business became the Hockaday Paint Company.
Over the years, the building served many Wichita businesses, including the Lehman-Higginson Grocery Company and hide companies such as James C. Smith Hide Company and J.R. Johnston Hide Company. Even today, the words “Hides,” “Furs,” and “Pelts” remain faintly visible beneath the second-floor windows on the west side of the building.
Most recently, before River City Brewing, the space housed the Southwest Paper Company, another Wichita institution that served the community beginning in 1938.
Craftsmanship in Every Detail
History doesn’t stop at the walls. Much of the interior was thoughtfully reclaimed and restored by Craftmaster Jimmy Lylton, with the help of Kenny Potter and Donnie Washington. Our entryway features leaded glass windows salvaged from the historic Vickers Mansion in Wichita. The bar itself was built from wood reclaimed from the old Salvation Army building on Douglas Avenue.
Wainscoting was crafted from timbers and flooring rescued from the Axtell House in southern Jackson County, Kansas. Booth materials and wood trim came from homes on Quality Hill in Kansas City slated for demolition. The pews used for booth seating once belonged to a church in Cheney, Kansas, where we also sourced the lights hanging overhead.
Just inside the door sits a well-worn bench that Jimmy claims came from a Dodge City saloon. He’s not entirely sure which one, but the cigarette burns on the arms tend to support the story.
Food, Beer, and Kansas Roots
Our menu reflects Kansas heritage while offering something for everyone. We proudly serve Kansas-raised beef alongside pastas, seafood, salads, sandwiches, and our signature pizzas. Our professional kitchen staff relies on time-proven techniques to prepare everything from stocks and soups to pizza dough, while also creating specials that incorporate our craft beers.
Whether you’re joining us for a pint, a meal, or a gathering with friends, River City Brewing offers an experience rooted in history, craftsmanship, and community.