USA, OR: Xicha Brewing opening second location in Eugene

Xicha Brewing, Oregon's only Latinx-owned brewery, is extending its roots and opening a location in Eugene, the Statesman Journal reported on April 20.

Owner Ben Mendoza said they're excited to find more opportunities to introduce themselves to more of the community, and since Eugene's was so close it was the best first step.

"Eugene makes a lot of sense for us primarily because of the size and location by the I-5 corridor," Mendoza said. "We've been (shipping and offering products to Eugene) for a while now, and we know Eugene a little better, so that's partly why we're going in Eugene — specifically south Eugene."

For now, Mendoza is keeping the address of the second location under wraps. The idea for their second location had been in the works prior to the pandemic, but like many other business owners Mendoza had to rethink the strategy until some more stability returned to the economy.

The location is not expected to open until late June. Originally, Mendoza had planned to open closer to early May to coincide with Cinco De Mayo. However, delays in getting supplies and construction forced a later opening date.

"In some weird crazy world, (opening on our original projected date) may happen, but it'll depend on what happens next," Mendoza said.

The brewery's main location in West Salem will remain the hub for brewing. Mendoza wanted to reassure folks who eventually visit the Eugene location that they will have the same experience with the food and brews they'll be serving, keeping to their colorful aesthetic and family-friendly atmosphere.

"We're not standing up another location, like McMenamins does," Mendoza said. "The idea is the front of house that we offer in Xicha in Salem, but the menu will be smaller and a little different as we're going to test some new items."

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