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The Untold Truth About BJ’s Brewhouse
BJ’s Brewhouse, a popular restaurant chain in the United States, has managed to capture the hearts and appetites of many customers over the years. With a large menu, reasonable prices, and a unique dining experience, BJ’s Brewhouse has become a success story in the casual dining industry. In this article, we will uncover some interesting facts and untold truths about BJ’s Brewhouse that you may not have known.
The chain opened in Southern California
Born in Southern California in 1978, BJ’s Brewhouse had its humble beginnings in the land of sunshine and beaches. Starting with a single location, the chain quickly expanded throughout California, and as of 2021, there are 62 BJ’s Brewhouse restaurants in the state. Their website proudly states that they have put a “Southern California twist” on many of their menu items, ensuring that customers can experience a taste of So-Cal flair wherever they go.
BJ’s Brewhouse Started as a Pizza Joint
While BJ’s Brewhouse now offers a diverse menu with a wide variety of appetizers and entrees, it may come as a surprise that the chain originally started out as a pizza joint. In its early days, BJ’s Brewhouse primarily served Southern California-style pizza. Although the menu has expanded significantly since then, they still pay homage to their pizza roots with 18 signature pizzas, including tavern-cut and deep-dish options. BJ’s prides itself on its hand-pressed deep dish pizza dough, which is double proofed to ensure a deliciously fluffy crust.
BJ’s Didn’t Always Serve Craft Beer
As the name suggests, BJ’s Brewhouse is known for its beer selection. But it wasn’t until 1996, nearly two decades after its founding, that the chain introduced its craft beers. The BJ’s Brea location in California was the first to open a brewery capable of supplying craft beer to all of the surrounding restaurants. Since then, BJ’s has expanded its beer offerings and become known for its wide variety of award-winning beers. Today, their beer is paired not only with their pizza, but with the entire menu.
They invented the delicious Pizookie dessert.
One of the standout items on the dessert menu at BJ’s Brewhouse is the famous Pizookie. This unique creation is essentially a pizza cookie baked in a deep dish pan and topped with ice cream and various toppings. With flavors like peanut butter, white chocolate macadamia nut, and cookies n’ cream, the Pizookie has become a favorite dessert among BJ’s fans. While it may seem unconventional to focus on pizookies and ice cream floats on the dessert menu, the popularity of these treats speaks for itself.
The beer at BJ’s Brewhouse has won numerous awards.
BJ’s Brewhouse takes their craft beer seriously, and their dedication has paid off. Over the years, their beers have won an impressive 220 awards. With 11 signature beers and a rotating selection of seasonal brews, BJ’s offers a wide range of options for beer lovers. Some of their award-winning beers include the 2019 A&M Honey Bock, 2018 Quad, 2016 Razz-Jerry Tart, 2015 LightSwitch® Lager, and 2015 Magnolia’s Peach®. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or simply enjoy a refreshing brew, BJ’s has something to satisfy your taste buds.
BJ’s Brewhouse is involved with nonprofits and charities
Beyond serving delicious food and beverages, BJ’s Brewhouse is committed to giving back to the community. The restaurant created the BJ’s Restaurants Foundation, a nonprofit organization that has donated to more than 100 charities, including Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics and Girls Inc. The restaurant also holds fundraisers for local schools and rewards students’ academic achievements with free meals. Many employees volunteer in their communities through the BJ’s Restaurants Foundation, demonstrating the chain’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond its walls.
COVID forced BJ’s to adapt and innovate
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many restaurants faced significant challenges. BJ’s Brewhouse, however, rose to the occasion by shifting its operations to focus on takeout and delivery. The chain had previously invested in technology and digital ordering capabilities that allowed it to continue serving its menu to customers despite dine-in restrictions. BJ’s prioritized quality food and service to ensure that customers could continue to enjoy their favorite dishes. When restaurants reopened, BJ’s took the necessary precautions to create a safe dining environment, proving that they can overcome adversity.
The Future of BJ’s Brewhouse
With its rich history and continued success, BJ’s Brewhouse shows no signs of slowing down. The chain has plans for continued expansion, both in the United States and internationally. BJ’s is committed to providing its customers with a memorable dining experience by offering a diverse menu, craft beers and exceptional service. As they continue to innovate and adapt to changing times, BJ’s Brewhouse remains a popular destination for food and beer enthusiasts alike.
In summary, BJ’s Brewhouse has carved out a place for itself in the competitive restaurant industry with its unique blend of delicious food, handcrafted beers, and a welcoming atmosphere. From its humble beginnings as a pizza joint in Southern California to its national presence today, BJ’s Brewhouse has captured the taste buds of countless guests. Whether you’re a fan of their signature pizzas, crave their award-winning beers, or can’t resist indulging in a pizookie, BJ’s Brewhouse has something for everyone. So the next time you’re looking for a satisfying meal and a great beer, give BJ’s Brewhouse a try.
FAQS
BJ’s Brewhouse began as a pizza joint in Southern California in 1978 and has since grown into a successful restaurant chain with locations across the United States.
What makes BJ’s Brewhouse unique?
BJ’s Brewhouse is known for its diverse menu, which includes a wide variety of appetizers, entrees and signature pizzas. They are also known for their handcrafted beers and their famous Pizookie dessert.
How many BJ’s Brewhouse locations are there?
As of 2021, there are 62 BJ’s Brewhouse locations in California alone. The chain has expanded beyond its Southern California roots and now has restaurants in states across the country.
What are some of the most popular menu items at BJ’s Brewhouse?
BJ’s Brewhouse offers a variety of popular menu items, including its signature pizzas, jambalaya, spicy peanut chicken, prime rib and the popular pizookie dessert.
Does BJ’s Brewhouse have a charitable presence?
Yes, BJ’s Brewhouse is involved in charitable initiatives through the BJ’s Restaurants Foundation. They have donated to more than 100 charities and hold fundraisers for local schools and support causes such as Habitat for Humanity and Special Olympics.
How did BJ’s Brewhouse adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic?
BJ’s Brewhouse adapted to the challenges of the pandemic by focusing on takeout and delivery. They leveraged their technology and digital ordering capabilities to continue serving customers while implementing security measures when they reopened their dine-in services.