Billy Watterson and Troy Erickson are transforming two historic Ada properties

April 25 media release__Moon King Entertainment Group is pleased to announce the opening of Old Route 69 Brewery, 120 East Buckeye in downtown Ada, Ohio this summer. The 12,0000 square-foot brewery, taproom, restaurant, and 10,000 square-foot beer garden will offer distinctive craft beer, food and family-inclusive entertainment.

The brewery will feature a selection of core Old Route 69 Brewery craft beers, crafted by Head Brewer John Novotny upon launch and is expected to add 10-12 house-brewed beers in the coming months. Guests will enjoy the verdant beer garden that will offer a jumbo LED television, live music, cornhole and other lawn games.

The taproom will feature large screen televisions and ample bar seating. The accompanying dining room showcases games like duckpin bowling, pool, darts and Keno. Food and beverages will be available everywhere on the property, and will include a selection of elevated bar food, sandwiches, burgers, signature bowls, salads and pizza from local culinary legend, Michael Allen.

“Ada’s evolution presents an interesting opportunity for our new business to thrive while providing a venue with the entertainment capacity of a larger city. Our aim is to become a destination for the region, a gathering space where high quality food and beverages are only outmatched by charm,” said Watterson.

The two entrepreneurs, who are also lifelong friends, have spent the last five years developing their business plan for Old Route 69 Brewery. The 2019 closure of the Cole Motor Sales, which was operational for 113 years, originally presented an opportunity to carry on the tradition of local business ownership at this location. While under development, the adjoining Armory Building became available and provided inspiration to realize their dream of creating a fully equipped entertainment venue.

“Billy and I grew up in Ada and want to pay tribute to the close-knit community that shaped our vision and values. Our plans have evolved from an indoor taproom and beer garden to a destination where visitors come from miles around to enjoy great food and beer and patronize local businesses,” said Erickson. “Our fresh take on this honors the connectivity that the State Route 69 (now State Route 235) provided to travelers. We want to establish a place where all feel welcome and can learn more about what makes Ada a great town!”