Pirate Panda Brewing breaks ground on 2-story brew pub in Roanoke

Brothers Pablo and David Medina are behind the project and said they selected Roanoke as the location for the brewery because of the city’s family-friendly atmosphere. Pablo Medina will be the master brewer behind the concept.

He said he specializes in Belgian and German beers, but the brewery will have a rotating tap of at least 10 beers, plus seasonal options.

Pirate Panda Brewing will have the capacity for 430 guests, David Medina said. The top story will have an open-air space for all guests, along with an enclosed area for private events.

Other amenities include a play space for kids, an enclosed dog park where pets can run off leash and a food menu.

“Our objective is not only to be a brewery, but more like a place to create community,” David Medina said. “The idea is that you can come sit down with your friends, sit down with your parents, bring your kids, bring your dogs, enjoy several beers and have a good time.”

The backstory

The Medinas are originally from Mexico and were living in Miami before moving to Texas. David Medina said the Miami market wasn’t right for the type of family-oriented brew pub that they wanted.

After scouring around Texas, David Medina said his brother came across the open Roanoke plot and knew it was the right location.

“He was like, ‘I went ahead and bought it because I know that it's going to be the perfect spot.’ And now, finally, after a few years, we're ready,” David Medina said.

Roanoke City Council first approved Pirate Panda Brewing at an April 14 meeting. The planning and zoning commission approved the site plan April 6, according to previous reporting.

Construction originally was projected to begin in May and be completed in December.

Looking ahead

The Medina brothers said construction will begin after the Fourth of July weekend, and the brewery should open in the second quarter of 2027.