Evil Genius Brewery Revamps Former Fishtown Raver Factory into Rustic Yet Polished Beer Haven

Photos, story by Cassie Hepler

We’re pretty sure there’s a reward (perhaps in delicious craft beer) to whomever can find some rave pics that allegedly happened in the now beer haven home of Evil Genius Beer Company.

“In October of 2015, we purchased an old carriage factory from the 1870s at 1727 N Front St that was in shambles – collapsing ceiling, exposed wires, you name it.  For the last 18 months, we have completely turned this place around – even managing to salvage wood from the original roof that were turned into our booths, benches and tables by the fantastic craftsmen at Philadelphia Wood Craft Company. We installed a 15-barrel brewing system from Specific Mechanical System, and have been perfecting our opening tap list since the middle of January,” said Trevor Hayward, co-owner of Evil Genius Brewing Company, in his Irish accent. “We poured our blood, sweat, tears (and beers) into this place and we can’t wait to share it with you.”

When we first met Trevor, it was at South Street’s Headhouse Shambles years ago when the crew were just baby brewers. But their beer caught our tastebud’s attention immediately and we went back for seconds – and thirds. Not only that but Trevor hand delivered a sample tasting six pack to the Manayunk “headquarters” and left it in my neighbor’s cooler (fortunately he’s a Bud Light guy and had no interest in this crazy craft beer stuff) in the summer. We enjoyed it at an outdoor concert in West Philly and the whole gang also fell in love. Brewmaster Jon Defibaugh certainly has the flavors down pat and co-owner Luke Bowen is we assume half of the brains behind this operation.

In fact, he and Jon come up with all the fun names behind the beers, which are sure to be a hipster sensation… and also kind of sets the median age for the crew aka, “Stacy’s Mom Has Got it Goin On”. We wonder if 20 years later, does Stacy’s mom still have it going on? Anyway, back to the brewery. Check out these behind the scenes and media preview party pics to get an idea when you want to plan your visit to our favorite brewery in Philly! (Ooops did we just say that? Sorry, not sorry!)