Pearl Street offers an abundance of wonderful businesses that each bring something unique to the table. You can find just about every type of restaurant, bar or shop imaginable, all conveniently situated within walking distance of DU.

But a piece of Pearl’s puzzle was still missing up until this past summer–one that a father and son recently decided to take on. Back in June, Colby Rankin and his father Randy opened Platt Park Brewing Company, a simple and refreshing place for Denverites to drink high-quality, local beer.

Located a couple doors down from the corner of Pearl and Jewell (1875 S. Pearl St.), Platt Park Brewing Company is perfectly placed both for DU students and Platt Park residents. Upon walking through its big garage doors, which allow plenty of fresh air to flow inside, it’s immediately clear what their goals are for this audience: to be a clean-cut and simple hub to gather and drink beer—nothing more and nothing less. There’s plenty of space, so you’re not bumping any elbows; several large wooden tables to seat groups; a huge bar, so you’re not pushing your way around to get a drink and a wide variety of board games to keep customers happily occupied.

Sounds of classic rock and reggae set a relaxed mood, which is actually so relaxed that they allow dogs inside, providing they are well-behaved.
While many other breweries operate restaurants in addition to their beer production, these guys are all about doing one thing and doing it well; just brewing beer. They make nine different types, which range from $5-7 (20 percent off during happy hour, which runs from 3-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday), and don’t bother with anything else.

But what’s great about this lack of food is that you’re allowed to bring your own instead. That’s right–whether you grab a burger from across the street at Park Burger, call in delivery or bring something from home, it’s all totally welcome. And to make things even easier for you, there’s a binder full of delivery options with contact information, narrowing the city’s many choices down for you.

This business plan makes the brewery the perfect place for college students because they can have more control over their money and not get sucked into an expensive outing. The brewery has several snacks too if you’re not out for a meal, such as popcorn, chips and beef jerky, which range from one to three dollars.

Believe it or not, this entire establishment was created in just one year from a spur of the moment decision. Randy Rankin had been brewing beer at home for some time, and after discussing the idea of turning into a profession with Colby, there was no turning back. The two put their hearts and souls into this business and seem to be incredibly proud of how far they have come.

In addition to starting a successful business in quite a competitive area, they’ve overcome serious legal troubles. When Platt Park Brewery opened its doors, it was under the name Denver Pearl Brewing Company. But they were threatened with a lawsuit from Pabst Blue Ribbon, because Pabst brews beers under the names “Pearl” and “Pearl Light.” Rumor has it that Denver Beer Company also bullied them to change the name because it involved the word Denver.

So, instead of jumping the court system’s hurdles, the Rankin’s decided to simply rebrand and move on. This was a mature and respectful move that speaks highly to their work ethic as well as their determination to succeed without creating animosity amongst their competition.

If you’re looking for a new place to grab a drink that isn’t dirty like many around DU or pretentious like many downtown, Platt Park Brewing Company will not disappoint. Also keep in mind that they offer booking for events such as birthday and graduation parties, as well as kegs if you’re planning on having an event at home.

Go support this hard-earned, local establishment. They deserve your business, and you deserve their delicious beer.