Before opening his brewpub in Omaha’s Old Market District in 1996, Brian Magee discovered that the city’s name “Omaha” translated to “upstream” in the language of the Native Americans. The Omaha Indian tribe had lived in what is now Missouri before traveling “upstream” to settle here. Knowing that one needs water to make beer, it made sense to name his brewpub as he did.

When people talk with Brian, it becomes obvious that everything about Upstream Brewing Company is as well thought out as its name. Brian learned about the benefits of preparing food from scratch while working for 14 years in the food & beverage and catering departments at Lincoln’s renowned Cornhusker Hotel. His brewing mentor and first partner was current Colorado governor John Hickenlooper, who opened the first brewpub in Colorado.

Throughout the past two decades Upstream Brewing Company, located in 112 year-old firehouse, has acquired a reputation for fine craft beers and delicious, made-from-scratch food.  Several thousand employees have worked at the iconic brewpub since its opening, resulting in several marriages and children.

Meanwhile, Magee is planning for the next 20 years.

Old Market: 514 S. 11th St., Omaha, NE 68102

402.344.0200 • upstreambrewing.com

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