Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, Grand Central Brewhouse was established to foster community and craft high-quality beers. It operates on a philosophy of giving back, donating a portion of proceeds to local charities.
The emphasis is on tradition and quality ingredients, ensuring that every beer honors its roots. The two-story establishment features a taproom and beer garden, making it an inviting space for all.
Grand Central Brewhouse takes pride in its meticulous brewing process. Using time-honored ingredients, the brewery offers a range of artisanal lagers. European serving tank technology ensures each beer’s distinct flavors are perfectly preserved from tank to glass.
From golden and crisp to dark and malty, their beers cater to diverse tastes. The emphasis on quality is evident in every aspect, right down to the thoughtfully selected glassware.
Situated steps away from Central Avenue, the brewery provides an urban retreat with expansive indoor and outdoor spaces. The dog-friendly environment encourages bonding and memory-making among visitors.
Food from LALA St. Pete complements the beer experience. The venue also offers options for private events, making it a versatile space for community gatherings.
GCB’s origins stem from a simple love of beer and craft breweries. After many years in the insurance business, Owner and Founder Kevin Milkey wanted to establish a new craft brewery in the community he feels very passionate about. The initial plan was to follow the path of most US craft breweries and convert an old warehouse, gas station, garage, or factory into a brewery, but then Kevin came across a large vacant lot for sale on Central Avenue in the heart of the Grand Central District and thought that was a perfect location for a new brewery. While discussing initial architectural plans with architect Tim Clemmons, we determined that the lot was big enough for two buildings, the second of which could be a restaurant which would provide food service for the brewery customers. So, what started out as an idea to renovate an old building into a small brewery became a new construction project with not one, but two buildings, each with a second floor and terrace and a large beer garden out back.
Grand Central Brewhouse (GCB) combines a passion for craft beer with innovative brewing techniques and community-focused initiatives. Discover how GCB’s collaborative team, mission-driven approach, commitment to sustainability, and strong code of conduct make it a standout in the craft beer industry.
After retiring from a successful career in insurance, Kevin has decided to take his talents to the craft beer industry. Exactly what those talents are remains debatable. But what is not debatable is his love of beer and spending time at craft breweries. Prior to establishing Grand Central Brewhouse, Kevin was one of the three original employees at American Strategic Insurance, more commonly known as ASI, a property insurance company based in St. Petersburg.
After 21 years at ASI and following the acquisition of ASI by Progressive Insurance Group, Kevin retired from ASI. But long before he retired, he dreamt of owning a craft brewery someday. Kevin was an early enthusiast of craft beers, long before most people had heard of craft beers or microbrews. Before any craft breweries opened locally, Kevin regularly stopped into Shep’s on Fourth Street to pick up new craft beer to sample from around the country.
Kevin, his wife Jeanne, and son Jack love to travel and craft breweries, pubs, beer halls, and beer tours became a significant part of the itinerary wherever they traveled in both the U.S. and Europe. The laid-back environment and large variety of innovative beers at craft breweries presented the ideal combination to spend quality time.
In recent years, the brewery stops have become “research” trips. Kevin has incorporated many ideas from breweries and pubs from around the world into his vision for Grand Central Brewhouse, most notably serving beer directly from serving tanks. Kevin has also completed the Brewing Arts Program offered by USF St. Petersburg where he not only learned how to brew beer but gained foundational knowledge of owning and operating a brewery.
Kevin moved to Florida from New York City in 1991 and quickly fell in love with the Tampa Bay area. Away from the brewery, Kevin is very active in the community, sitting on two charitable boards and supporting several local non-profits through the Milkey Family Foundation he established with Jeanne to support local charities in the St. Petersburg area. He is a huge sports fan and enthusiastically supports our Tampa Bay professional teams. An avid runner, Kevin has completed 11 marathons, which helps complement his other passion, beer.
Matt joined the Grand Central Brewhouse team as our General Manager in July 2021.
His love for craft beer began while attending Florida State University. While earning his degrees in Entrepreneurship and Business Management, he also took on a Beverage Sciences minor through the school of Hospitality. The classes themselves taught about wine, beer, spirits, and other beverages (Juices, Coffee, Tea) but it was “Ales and Lagers of the World” that changed his entire career path. Matt learned about the world’s many beer drinking regions and the styles that they developed, malting, brewing horticulture, the fermentation process and the distribution chain, but actually getting to drink beer in class and discover the different flavor profiles is what got him obsessed. After class, he used to go to Proof Beer Bar (Before it was a brewery) so that he could further his “research” and also collect the sweet glassware from their brewery giveaways. He became so focused on beer his parents bought him a homebrew recipes book that Christmas and started gathering equipment to brew his very first batch.
After college, Matt moved to Boston, Massachusetts in 2012 and got hired at Harpoon Brewery as a Beer Hall Captain, tending bar, giving tours, selling merchandise and working festivals. After 2 years of city life and 2 of the worst winters on record, Matt headed for greener pastures and warmer weather in Saint Petersburg. He immediately got hired at the new Green Bench Brewing Company in the fall of 2014 and started out as a bartender. Over the next seven years, Matt worked his way through the front of the house, from shift lead, to cider and mead assistant, then event coordinator and finally, General Manager. Along the way he gained extensive knowledge of barrel aging and foeders, wild yeast and mixed culture fermentation, cider and mead production, and an appreciation for lager. He also made some lifelong friends along the way.
During the Pandemic, Matt contemplated a new career path due to all the uncertainty surrounding the Craft Beer Industry and his own fears of burnout. It was then that he got a text from now Head Brewer Zac Collins asking if he was interested in a new role. After two meetings and day to think it over, Matt decided to keep his love of beer alive and join the Grand Central crew to continue his passion for lagers.
When Matt isn’t pouring beers, fixing something around our tasting room or swinging off a ladder changing lightbulbs or hanging decorations, he likes to spend his free time with his beautiful wife Chelsy and their son Aidan. He enjoys traveling, food, video games, dogs, and fishing.
Stacy has been beertending at Grand Central Brewhouse since day one. With no previous beertending experience she was equally excited and nervous to share her talents in the craft beer scene and learn more about the beer she enjoys. Her only knowledge of craft beer at this point was based off of informal lessons from friends in the beer industry, specifically at Hops and Props. Stacy continued to work full time at Bank OZK, looking at the brewery job as something fun to do on the side. Stacy quickly became one of the many staff members at GCB who is Cicerone Certified.
Stacy later learned of a position opening at Grand Central Brewhouse for an event planner for public events, which she graciously accepted. She had always thought an event planner role would be fun and more suiting to her personality but wasn’t sure it was in the cards considering her banking and finance background. She was leaving an over 15 year career in banking. Stacy quickly realized this career change was the right move and not long after was asked to take on the private events at GCB as well.
Stacy moved to Tampa Bay at the age of 11 with her family from Trinidad and Tobago and has loved everything Tampa Bay ever since. Outside of the brewery, Stacy is an active volunteer in the community, and with her church. Stacy is a member of the Pink Boots Society and recently attended her first of many Craft Brewers Conferences. She is a huge Green Bay Packers fan, though tries to support the Bucs as much as she can. Though no formal accomplishments, she enjoys rollerblading and biking often.
At GCB, collaboration is key. This passion project began with Kevin Milkey, a former insurance professional turned brewery owner. His vision brought together an experienced team, including brewers Zac Collins and Eric Trinoskey and General Manager Matt O’Connell. Zac and Eric’s brewing expertise blend well with Matt’s extensive experience in craft beer operations and event management.
The team at GCB shares ideas and draws inspiration from global brewery visits. A notable feature is serving beer directly from copper serving tanks, a European tradition. This collaborative spirit ensures GCB offers a unique, high-quality experience that sets it apart.
Grand Central Brewhouse was designed to be an integral part of the community; a comfortable neighborhood meeting place, with a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, highlighted by a large beer garden, from which to relax and enjoy a craft beer with friends and family. People are the heart of this city and therefore, the heart of our mission. Grand Central Brewhouse will be a spot for the community to come together, make memories, and taste quality, craft beer.
A place for beer enthusiasts and casual consumers alike, Grand Central Brewhouse’s drink menu features a wide variety of lagers and a full range of ales using the highest quality ingredients available. Lagers are very under-represented in the craft beer arena, but most beer drinkers prefer lagers, especially on a warm Florida day. So, we will fill the void with a nice selection of light, amber and darker lagers. Our Ales will include pale ales, IPAs and darker ales such as porters and stouts, wheat beers, plus some funky and sour beers. Quality and drinkability will be of utmost importance.
GCB’s success is built on three pillars: people, planet, and profit. Fair wages and a positive work environment are priorities, reflecting a deep commitment to employee well-being. Sustainability is equally important; GCB integrates eco-friendly practices into daily operations to minimize environmental impact.
Community engagement is another cornerstone. Through the Brew Good program, GCB supports local non-profits, contributing to the broader St. Petersburg community. This holistic approach not only defines GCB’s business model but ensures that every pint poured positively impacts more than just your taste buds.
GCB maintains a strong code of conduct rooted in respect, inclusivity, and community focus. This isn’t just about brewing great beer—it’s about fostering a welcoming environment. Employees and patrons alike are expected to uphold these values, ensuring everyone enjoys their time at the brewery.
Kevin emphasizes the importance of fair treatment and respect for all, creating a positive atmosphere. This commitment to integrity and quality makes GCB not only a great place to enjoy craft beer but a respectful, welcoming community hub.
The following Code of Conduct applies to all: Employees, Customers (taproom, private events, on-line, social media), Accounts, Vendors, Partners, Collaborators, and Contractors. All Grand Central Brewhouse employees are expected to know and follow the Code of Conduct. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
Unacceptable Behaviors
GCB is committed to a workplace free of harassment, bullying, discrimination, and retaliation. We define these acts clearly; harassment is the act of systematic and/or continued unwanted and annoying actions of one party or group, including threats and demands. Harassment can be any action verbal, visual, or physical that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion towards an individual because of any protected characteristic. Bullying is an ongoing and deliberate misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical, and/or social behavior that intends to cause physical, social, and/or psychological harm. Discrimination is treating a party differently or denying or granting a benefit to an individual because of the individual’s protected characteristic. Retaliation is when an individual takes negative action against another person who files a formal complaint about discrimination or harassment.
Safe and Healthy Workplace
We are committed to a safe, healthy, and violence-free work environment. Behavior that poses risk to the safety, health or security of GCB employees, our extended workforce, or customers is prohibited. If you become aware of a risk to the safety, health, or security of our workplace, you should report it to a manager or any owner immediately. If it is life-threatening or an emergency, call your local police, fire, or other emergency responders first, and then report it to a manager or owner.
Violations of Code of Conduct
Violations will be taken seriously and can result in a written warning, suspension, termination, or other consequences. Employees who repeatedly violate the Code of Conduct will be terminated. Customers who repeatedly violate the Code of Conduct will be banned. Vendors who repeatedly violate the Code of Conduct will no longer be used.
Reporting Violations
Any reported incidents are immediately investigated by management, and if necessary/requested, an independent party. Employees, vendors, and customers are encouraged to report violations to Kevin Milkey (Owner/CEO), at [email protected] or Amie Miller (Manager), at [email protected] in a manner that is most comfortable to them. This can be in-person, in-writing, and/or anonymous. You may also send an email to, [email protected].
Gather your friends and family for an electrifying Friday night at Grand Central Brewhouse. Starting at 7PM, enjoy an all-request dueling pianos show featuring two baby grand pianos and two lively piano entertainers who will have you singing and dancing until 10PM.
Bring your favorite song requests,
cash and Venmo tips are welcome. This special live music event is proudly presented by That Piano Entertainment, LLC.
In case of inclement weather, the performance may be moved indoors or rescheduled.
Glitter Wizard is a 5% Hazy Pale Ale brewed with summer in mind. This one features Mosaic Spectrum in the dry hop, a cutting-edge flowable hop extract from Barth Haas that captures the full intensity of Mosaic without the excess vegetal matter. Layered on top is Krush, a hop variety known for its lush notes of mango, guava, and ripe citrus.
The result is a vibrant, aromatic pale ale that brings plenty of flavor without overwhelming the palate.
Glitter Wizard is the perfect companion for enjoying multiple rounds on these warm-weather days. It’s from on draft TODAY, so come on through and grab a glass.
The only pitch you need to hear today.
Elevator Pitch is our take on a traditional Munich-style Helles. Expect grainy, honey-like malt flavor with a light body and restrained hop character that lets the malt shine. It’s a crisp, clean, easy-drinking classic made for enjoying in the beer garden…or an elevator.
In today’s Sharing a Shiftie, Stacy talks about what goes into making events at Grand Central Brewhouse feel personal. From the small touches that set the tone to the behind-the-scenes pivots that keep everything on track when plans shift, it’s all about creating a great experience.
Whether it’s a baby shower, graduation, retirement party, wedding rehearsal, or something a little less traditional, Stacy’s goal is the same: make it memorable for you and your guests.
We’d love to host your next special event. If you’re looking for a world-class venue and an event coordinator who goes the extra mile, we’re here to help bring your vision to life. Drop us a DM or email us at [email protected] to get started.
We’ve got a packed weekend ahead! Check out the website or the Events tab on Facebook for all the details happening here at GCB.
Outside of the brewery, we’re incredibly proud to be pouring at @mikkellerbeer Beer Celebration Copenhagen (@mbcc2025), one of the most respected beer festivals in Europe.
Two Grand Central Brewhouse collabs are featured this year:
@benchwarmersbrewingco – Italian Pils
@shapesandobjectsbeerco – ESB (Extra Special Bitter End, which is also on draft in our taproom!)
If you’re attending, be sure to swing by and show some love to our friends. It’s an honor to have our collabs pouring alongside such great company.
Today’s the Day! Hogg Batch Gold Bar is Now Open!
We’re excited to officially open the doors to Hogg Batch Gold Bar, a new luxury tasting experience where coffee meets craftsmanship.
Join us for:
- Barrel-aged and specialty coffees
- Intentional pairings and curated bites
- Live acoustic performances
- Limited giveaways for early guests
Come explore the space (on the second floor), sip something exceptional, and experience coffee like never before. See you at the Gold Bar.
There’s plenty happening at Grand Central Brewhouse this weekend. Here’s what’s tappening:
Friday:
- Zack Pomerleau live in the Beer Garden at 7PM. Expect blues, soul, and serious musicianship.
Saturday:
- The Hogg Batch Gold Bar celebrates its grand opening upstairs from 8AM–2PM. Stop in for a luxury coffee experience.
- At 6PM, enjoy a live set in the Beer Garden from Rubye + Billy & Boycott.
Sunday:
- Gold Bar is back open from 8AM–2PM
- Arsenal vs. Newcastle on the big screen at 11:30AM
- Salsa dance class with RelPro Dance kicks off at 4PM. No partner required, just bring your dancing shoes.
Make a weekend of it! Enjoy some great beer, fresh coffee, live music, and great times all around!
This round of Stout du Jour is a rich and indulgent pour—an Imperial Stout brewed with Hazelnut Coffee and Vanilla, featuring beans from our longtime friends at Hogg Batch Luxury Coffee.
Expect deep layers of roasted hazelnut, creamy vanilla, and bittersweet chocolate, all wrapped in the warming embrace of our signature stout base. It’s dessert-adjacent, but not over the top—smooth, bold, and built for sipping.
And speaking of @hoggbatch...
Their new GoldBar (@hbgoldbar) Grand Opening is happening May 17 & 18!. Swing by our upstairs room for a luxury coffee experience each morning to kick off your weekend right—exclusive pours, great vibes, and plenty of caffeine to balance your beer.
Today we’re celebrating Stacy’s (stace_likesthesours_trini) 4-year anniversary at Grand Central Brewhouse.
As our Event Coordinator, she’s the driving force behind the shows, markets, and memorable moments that fill our calendar. Ask her what she loves most about the work, and she’ll tell you it’s the people, the philanthropy, and of course, the beer.
As for beer: one of her favorite projects was helping create our Tamarind & Soursop Sour, inspired by the bold, bright flavors she grew up with in Trinidad.
Thanks for four incredible years, Stacy. This place wouldn’t be the same without you.
We’ve got a packed week ahead at Grand Central Brewhouse—here’s what’s tappening:
Tonight: Join us upstairs for the Be Kind to Your Mind Happy Hour. Guest bartenders will be pouring from 5–7PM with all tips benefiting @namipinellas.
Thursday: Live music with @sandigrecco kicks off at 6PM.
Friday: Dueling Pianos return at 7PM—always a crowd favorite and guaranteed good time.
Saturday: We’re giving you a sneak peek of @hbgoldbar with a soft opening, followed by live music from KUDU at 7PM + some of our team will be visiting our pals at @floridaavebrewing participating in their Legends of the Hidden Tiki tap takeover battle event.
Sunday: Close out Mother’s Day weekend with Josh’s Jazz Trip starting at 2PM.
Plenty to sip, plenty to do—come hang.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we’re proud to partner with friends and leaders in the craft beer community to raise awareness and funds for NAMI Pinellas (@namipinellas) —the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
We first learned about National Alliance on Mental Illness from our friends in the craft beer industry; Amanda King, formerly of Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe and Adrian Castro, formerly of Union Beer Store at an event hosted for NAMI at Tripping Animals Brewing a few years back and are thrilled to be a part of this campaign to raise awareness of NAMI and funds for such a great local non-profit.
Throughout May, a portion of profits from our three Brew Good Partner beers will support NAMI Pinellas and their mission to provide education, resources, and support for individuals and families impacted by mental health conditions.
Join us tomorrow, Wednesday, May 7 from 5–7 PM upstairs at Grand Central Brewhouse for the main event—featuring guest bartenders Amanda King (@champagnefridayss), Megan (@megwa813) and Colleen (@colleencocob) (Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe OGs), and our very own Stacy (@stace_likesthesours_trini) —with all tips donated directly to NAMI Pinellas.
Come enjoy music by Dj Pretty Ricky (@pr3ttyricky), great beer, and a space to come together for a cause that matters.
It’s Derby Day at Grand Central Brewhouse
Join us today for our Kentucky Derby Watch Party and the release of our Mint Julep Sour—a limited beer treatment inspired by the classic cocktail.
Crisp, refreshing, and perfect for race day. Hats encouraged, good times guaranteed.
