Monkey 9 Brewing is a craft brewery and a pub-style restaurant perfect for family and friends to gather and enjoy delicious comfort foods like nachos, tacos, chicken wings, pizzas and more.

In the 2023 Canadian Brewing Award Conference, Monkey 9 Brewing managed to win the gold medal in the “German Kolsch Style” category with their “Cosmic Kolsch” beer.

The Cosmic Kolsch is a German inspired lager ale that is golden in color, with a crisp, pale, and refreshing taste. It is the perfect go-to drink for any occasion.

In an interview with Dallas Worthington (DW), the general manager of Best Western Hotels & Resorts, we go in depth on how Monkey 9 Brewery was first started and their journey till this day.

RS: What is the history of the business and how was it first established?

DW: Monkey 9 was established in 2016, after the owner wanted to keep two signature companies alive in the entertainment district of Richmond.  

RS: How did you come up with the name of the business?

DW: Monkey 9 was founded in 2016, which was the year of the monkey. The number 9 was chosen because it symbolizes positivity, gratification, and togetherness. In other words, coming together over an amazing craft pint.

RS: What was the initial goal of the company and has that changed over the course of the years?

DW: The initial goal of the company was to be a great place to get together with friends and family and provide excellent food and amazing beer with fantastic service. Our amazing location in the Riverport Entertainment District helps us provide locals and tourists alike with a community experience and fair prices, like our $5 Happy Hour pint. This goal remains the same today. 

RS: What services or products do you offer?

DW: Monkey 9 offers a full lineup of craft beer, a majority of them are made in-house, with the exception of supporting another local brewery with a guest tap. Our facility also offers a full-service restaurant, featuring a wood stone pizza oven. Additionally, we are attached to a 40-lane bowling alley, so you can enjoy our beer while you bowl. 

RS: What made you want to start a business in this industry?

DW: The craft beer scene in Vancouver is immense and is consistently growing in the Richmond area. We wanted to bring our passion to this beautiful city and find a way to put an interesting twist on beer. 

RS: What sets your business apart from other franchises that are in the same industry?

DW: Our current head brewer, Brandon Wong, worked hand in hand with our brewer consultant to mix their two styles of beer, from Mexico and France, giving our beer a unique flavor profile that is approachable and easy to drink. 

RS: What do you attribute your business's success to?

DW: We are a community brewery that prides ourselves on being there for our community, giving back and working with other businesses. Additionally, we have had great staff who are the backbone of our business and are very beer savvy and curious. 

RS: What are some of your typical challenges as an owner or a manager?

DW: Inflation has been one of our biggest challenges, as we want to keep our prices fair for our customers. One challenge that we welcome is keeping up with the current trends in the beer industry and understanding where the industry is going. 

RS: How has COVID-19 impact your business?

DW: COVID-19 had a huge factor in our business, particularly with our business location in the entertainment district of Richmond, which was obviously shut down. One of our main streams of revenue is sports tournaments, which were cancelled for a long period of time, as were movies. 

RS: If there is one thing you could change about your business, what would it be?

DW: We would be on the other side of the movie theatre. Our business is semi-hidden from the main commuting street, which makes it difficult for customers to stumble upon us. 

RS: What is your most memorable or proudest moment of being in business?

DW: There are a few memorable moments, including our two B.C. beer award wins for our Mizaru Brown Ale, and most currently, our gold medal win at the Canadian Beer Awards for our Cosmic Kolsch. We must say that our most memorable moments are seeing the great staff that have worked with us succeed, and to see both locals and tourists coming through the doors and enjoying our delicious offerings. 

RS: How does the business create ties and connect you with the community of Richmond?

DW: We are a platinum sponsor of the Richmond Jets minor hockey league. We also participate in Steveston Farmers Market throughout the summer and work closely with Tourism Richmond. We also work closely with Mylora Golf Course in providing tastings for their tournament events. 

RS: How do you keep the employees happy, and customers satisfied?

DW: We take the time to listen to our employees and try to create a fun, professional atmosphere. 

RS: What is your "secret tip" in retaining returning customers?

DW: By making every customer feel as though they are a regular. We want our customers to feel comfortable, full, and to enjoy our fun atmosphere. 

RS: What tips would you give for future entrepreneurs that plan on starting their own business?

DW: Believe in yourself, believe in your vision and be adaptable to the ever-changing environment. Also, don't be afraid to admit when you're wrong and learn from your staff. 

Monkey 9 Brewing is located at 14200 Entertainment Blvd. They are open on Monday 2 to 10 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday 2 to 11 p.m., Thursday and Friday 2 p.m. to 12 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Sunday 12 to 10 p.m.