“All 500 employees were let go the same day,” Bhatt said. “I really debated if I should go back and get a job, or should I pursue my dream.”
In a nutshell
Bhatt didn’t want to open just any bar, he said, adding he wanted to open one that represents the community in which it was located.
After looking into several franchises, Bhatt decided to open a The Brass Tap location due to the franchise's focus on local beers, which helps breweries in the area.
“About 80% of the beers [on tap] are local,” Bhatt said. “[The breweries] are very crafty. I love it.”
Bhatt co-owns three The Brass Tap locations—in Richardson, Rockwall and Sachse—with several more in the works. He recently won the Franchisee of the Year and Developer of the Year awards from the company. The Richardson location, which opened in August 2022, is the most recent for Bhatt.
What makes it special?
Customer service is important to Bhatt.
“I tell my employees to put a smile on their face because they don’t know what a customer might be going through,” Bhatt said.
The bar has several events throughout the week, such as trivia nights and live music. In addition, The Brass Tap also has theme parties for major holidays.
Bhat also believes in giving back to the community and sponsors several youth sports teams.
“We really support the local community,” Bhatt said. “That’s really what sets us apart.”
What’s on the menu?
Although The Brass Tap is a bar, beer is not the only thing on the menu, Bhatt said, adding that there are items on the menu for everyone in the family to enjoy.
The Brass Tap is a little different than other bars because the food is never frozen, Bhatt said, adding that every fried item is beer-battered and fried in-house.
In addition to beer, The Brass Tap has a full bar offering several mixed drinks, including mocktails for those who do not drink.
- 1251 State St., Richardson
- www.brasstapbeerbar.com
