Bill and Will Mangan, like most area restaurateurs, had a tough 2020. Work-at-home advisories erased the lunchtime crowds at their McKenzie Brew House in Berwyn. But they took the opportunity afforded by the operational pause to reinvent the site as Will’s + Bill’s Brewery, a story covered by Michael Klein for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Faced with slumping business because of the pandemic and the augmented competition from King of Prussia’s foodie revival, they needed a plan.

Permanently mothballing the business was not an option, owing to the long-term lease. And the idea of a food-and-wine shop sounded good but wasn’t exactly in their wheelhouse.

The father-son team, therefore, opted for something unique.

“We saw the need for a neighborhood hangout but with an elevated experience,” said 29-year-old Will.

They temporarily closed McKenzie Brew House, fully renovated it, and opened as Will’s + Bill’s Brewery.

The establishment is still a bar-restaurant-brewery but now with more of a ski-lodge/throwback and family-friendly air. The owners feature 12 house beers, along with aged whiskies, bourbons, ryes, single malts, and vodka sodas.

The food menu offers something for everyone, including burgers, pasta, and a 16-ounce bone-in ribeye.

Read more about Will’s + Bill’s Brewery in The Philadelphia Inquirer.