Judy and Dan Kearnaghan, while not natives of Hixson, say they were excited to get out and meet more of the community.Craft-beer lovers in Hixson can rejoice, though they’ll have to wait a little longer to do so.
The Casual Pint is expected to open on Highway 153 around October, said Judy Kearnaghan, who owns the store with her husband Dan. They had anticipated opening in mid-August, but unforeseen issues pushed back the commencement of the store, which has been in the works since 2015.
“We feel like it’s going to be a great location,” Judy Kearnaghan said. “It’s such a busy community with so much to do, and we’re offering what few other restaurants in the area can offer.”
Based out of Knoxville, The Casual Pint offers craft beer on-site to drink, as well as growlers, customized six-packs and more. A location on Cherokee Boulevard opened around the end of 2014, and another is planned for the Hamilton Place area.
The Kearnaghans’ franchise location will place special emphasis on beer made locally, though brews from across America will be offered as well, which should fulfill even the pickiest palate, they said.
Both agreed that Hixson is an excellent spot considering its growth and burgeoning population, and that initial interest has been high.
Dan Kearnaghan said they are looking into the possibility of hosting community outreach events as an opportunity to introduce The Casual Pint to more people, and to meet the local residents.
“It will be good for business, and for the community,” he said.
The bar will be a new experience for both Judy, who was in the medical devices industry for 22 years, and Dan, who works as a manager with TVA. While Judy said she is anxious about the bar opening, excitement for a new chapter in their lives far outstripped any anxiety.
“It seems like such a fun opportunity,” she said. “We’ll get to know more people and be more involved in the community. It will be more relaxed than what we’re accustomed to.”
For more information about the Hixson location, call 423-800-5990 or visit hixson.thecasualpint.com.
Contact Shane Foley at sfoley@timesfreepress.com or 757-6506.