The Timeless Combo of Beer and Butchery Is Coming Soon to Maple Leaf

The folks of Maple Leaf are about to welcome an elevated take on a timeless combination: meat and beer. Guaranteed to set mouths a-watering, The Shambles is a neighborhood beer bar and butcher shop in the works at the corner of 15th Ave NE and NE 80th St, the former home of The Little Gym.

The Shambles is named after a street in York, England, that was once lined with butchers; meat hooks and shelves remain on many of the buildings, though the meatmongers are gone.

According to a mission statement, the company “believe[s] in local food, fresh beer, and sustainably sourced meat.” Co-owner Matthew Brady, who brings retail management experience from Fremont Brewing Company, will head the bar program, pouring PNW brews alongside cocktails inspired by the classics — lest you think it’ll just be old fashioneds and Manhattans, though, the company’s Facebook page is leaning into the likes of Chartreuse and mezcal, typical signifiers of a slightly more advanced approach.

To pair with the beers, Brady’s business partner will handle the in-house butchery, planning to connect with local farmers to prepare house-cured charcuterie, freshly made sausages, deli cuts to go, and a seasonal sandwich menu. Beer, meat, and a small selection of other market goods will be available to go as well.

When it was announced last fall on Maple Leaf Life, The Shambles was hoping to open by this month, but Brady said permitting issues have resulted in delays, a smaller footprint, and a shift to a 21-plus business model — tough news for anyone looking forward to the all-ages cafe portion. The shop is now awaiting city approval of adjustments.

Keep an eye on Instagram for plenty of closeups of smoked meats, and stay tuned for updates on what promises to be a strong specialty addition to the neighborhood, especially in a city where quality butchers are in short supply.