August 16, 2013 | Posted in:Around Town, Uncategorized

Pumpkinhead Release Party flyer

Pumpkinhead Release Party flyer

Some had gathered for the publicized Pumpkinhead release party, others trickled in to confirm the announcement on local news the evening prior- Shipyard was closing. It was an unexpected and somewhat hasty last call for the brew pub located on Fairbanks Ave in Winter Park.

Shipyard's Pumpkinhead (left) and Smashed Pumpkin (right) beers

Shipyard’s Pumpkinhead (left) and Smashed Pumpkin (right) beers

Happy Hour drinks were poured, the Pumpkinhead and Smashed Pumpkin flowed as planned and thirsty customers lamented the closing of the brew pub. For the annual Pumpkinhead release party, Shipyard had roped off the front parking lot for added seating, music and an outdoor grilling station with special buffet. Chef Goody manned the grills outside for the better part of the night. For those that enjoyed items from Shipyard’s regular menu, orders were being taken and the staff did its best to accommodate the growing crowds.

Shipyard's Happy Hour Oysters on the half shell

Shipyard’s Happy Hour Oysters on the half shell

Shipyard's Happy Hour baked Oysters. Pump Oysters topped with a Parmesan Artichoke mixture, then baked.

Shipyard’s Happy Hour baked Oysters. Plump Oysters topped with a Parmesan Artichoke mixture, then baked.

In recent years, Chef Goody developed quite a following as the popular and creative Chef at Oblivion Taproom, one of Orlando’s more prominent craft beer establishments. Goody concocted a unique food menu and left Oblivion’s kitchen earlier this spring to put his creative spin on the Shipyard menu. I asked Goody where he was landing next and if Shipyard’s sister operation, Sea Dog in Orlando, would be making room for him at their brew pub. Though Goody owns a home here in Orlando, he’ll be calling Clearwater his home soon. Goody will be heading up the Sea Dog Clearwater kitchens after wrapping up business for now defunct Winter Park brew pub. We can hope this is a temporary move and we’ll see Chef Goody’s creative culinary talents back in Orlando soon.

Cold Smoked Lobster Roll- served in a covered smoker box. The lid is removed table-side and the diner is treated to wafting smoke that imparts a subtle flavor in the sweet lobster meat.

Cold Smoked Lobster Roll- served in a covered smoker box. The lid is removed table-side and the diner is treated to wafting smoke that imparts a subtle flavor to the sweet lobster meat.

Hello, I'm Lisa Wilk! I'm a freelance food, wine and travel writer, photographer and presenter based out of Orlando, FL. While covering local restaurants and food events in the #1 tourist destination in the US, I find endless cooking inspiration when dining out. You'll often find me in the kitchen putting my own spin on those elevated chef creations to enjoy at home and when entertaining. I have a love and enthusiasm for wine, wine education and wine pairing. Find me about town teaching and demystifying wine as part of the popular @TheTastyTrio in the popular Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Perfectly Paired program series I've co-developed. Taste, Cook and Sip along with me on Twitter and Instagram at @TasteCookSip and @WineChix! Cheers!

4 Comments

  1. Lisa W
    August 16, 2013

    Leave a Reply

    We inquired. A former employee present and working the taps last night commented that lack of parking was a big problem and they were heading into their slower time…odd since Rollins is starting back up and so is football season. One would think the opposite. Speaking with patrons in the crowd, lack consistency of menu and staff seemed to come up as frequently as much as “changing their brand/identity too much”. No official word to report, though.

  2. bee797
    August 16, 2013

    Leave a Reply

    Anyone know the ultimate reason for closing, and in such a hurry? Seems odd.

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