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Patrick Donagher
Founder at Alewife Brewing Company
Professional Background
Patrick Donagher is an accomplished and innovative bar owner and entrepreneur with a deep-rooted passion for the craft beer industry. Coming from a lineage of bar owners, being the fourth generation in his family to enter the business, Patrick embodies the spirit of hospitality and expertise in the craft beverage scene. After relocating to New York City over 15 years ago, he immersed himself in the dynamic bar environment, quickly adapting to its challenges and intricacies.
In 2011, Patrick founded Get Real Presents, an events company designed around craft beer and local food events. The company has gained considerable recognition in the industry. Notable events organized by Get Real have included 'Beer Bar Fest', 'aPORKalypse Now', 'BeerBalls', 'Belgian Festival', and the signature 'Cask Ale Fest'. These events have not just celebrated beer but brought together communities and strengthened the ties between local bars and breweries. Over the years, Get Real Presents has diversified its services significantly; now, it includes brand management, growth consultancy, event planning, and sales assistance. In an exciting new venture, Patrick's team is launching a craft beer distribution service to enhance the reach of craft breweries across the nation.
Patrick's journey in NYC has seen him co-open successful bars that have become landmarks in the craft beer landscape. Notably, he played a pivotal role as co-managing partner of The Cherry Tree, a craft beer bar in Brooklyn that quickly garnered a loyal patronage. Following that, he helped establish Rattle N Hum, recognized as one of the most popular craft beer bars in New York City, where he spent three successful years.
In addition to these establishments, Patrick has pioneered several other bar ventures, including Alewife in Long Island City, which garnered accolades such as the Best NY Craft Beer Bar in 2014. Following that, he opened The Jeffrey on the Upper East Side in 2013, celebrated for its eclectic craft beer and cocktail offerings and known for winning Draft Magazine's Top Bars in America each year since inception. More recently, he opened Fools Gold on the Lower East Side, which continues his tradition of providing excellent craft beverages alongside a curated bar program that includes fine wines and whiskeys.
Education and Achievements
Patrick honed his professional expertise through years of practical experience and hands-on learning in the bar business. While he studied at De La Salle, his education laid the groundwork for his future endeavors, although he credits much of his knowledge to the immersive experiences he gained by working in and managing bars. Patrick's acute understanding of the beverage industry, customer service, and business management has proven invaluable in his journey.
His accomplishments extend beyond individual bars; he is also the founder of Alewife Brewing Company, furthering his commitment to craft beer and extending the reach of quality brews. Several of his establishments have received prestigious awards and acclaim, solidifying their status as essential destinations in the NYC bar scene.
Achievements
- Founding Get Real Presents: Established a successful events company focused on enhancing the craft beer community and bringing people together through curated events centered around craft beer and local cuisine.
- Opening Alewife: Launched Alewife in Long Island City, which quickly received accolades, including Best NY Craft Beer Bar in 2014, a testament to the dedication to quality and service.
- The Jeffrey's Success: Opened The Jeffrey on the Upper East Side, earning recognition as one of Draft Magazine's Top Bars in America since its opening, highlighting a consistent commitment to providing an exceptional drinking experience.
- Creating Fools Gold: Established Fools Gold on the Lower East Side, rounding out his portfolio with a focus on craft beer, cocktails, wine, and whiskey.
- Innovative Expansion: Patrick's vision for growth includes the upcoming launch of Alewife Beer Co. and Zymurgy Craft Beer & Cocktails in 2017, targeting to establish a broader footprint in the craft beer and cocktail markets.
With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Patrick Donagher has transformed the craft beer scene not only in New York City but also aims to spread his influence nationally, making beer a highlight of the urban social landscape. His journey conveys a joyous celebration of beer culture, underscoring the importance of community, quality, and innovation in the bar industry.
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