While small businesses make up only 11 percent of Tideland’s 22,600 electric accounts, they are critically important to both the co-op and the communities we serve. Local support can make all the difference in small business success.
Garick Kalna’s 1718 Brewery is making waves at Ocracoke
One of our newest member businesses is a brewery located in Ocracoke.
By the time you read this, James Holzhauer may or may not be the reigning Jeopardy! champion. So let’s test your trivia skills.
What is significant about 1718?
It’s the year Blackbeard met his grisly fate at Ocracoke. It’s also the name of the island’s new craft brewery.
You might not initially recognize the place, but it was once home to the Cafe Atlantic, which served up memorable dining experiences for 25 years. The building has since been reimagined and expanded, with owner Garick Kalna doing much of the work himself.
While brewing operations began earlier, 1718 officially opened its doors to the public in the fall of 2017. The following spring, Kalna invited Plum Pointe Kitchen to take up residence in part of the building where chef Aaron Gallaher serves up small plates and appetizers that pair nicely with 1718 brews, which also include kid-friendly root beer.
Kalna’s brewing philosophy is to keep it simple yet spectacular. The best way to get acquainted with the menu board is to order a five-selection tasting flight. Brews like the Notorius F.I.G. and Oyster Stout pay homage to island culture. If you prefer a more exotic port of call, try the Mexican Chocolate Stout, brewed using roasted cacao beans, cinnamon and Madagascar vanilla. There’s plenty of diversity to keep you coming back all vacation long.
Kalna has created a laid back, social atmosphere with five distinct seating areas. You can belly up to the bar for a tasting tutorial, head upstairs for more relaxed club seating where you’ll also spot the outlines of the original Cafe Atlantic or soak up some rays on the roofline deck. Covered front porch seating is well-behaved-dog friendly and you can try your hand at a round of corn hole.
Every vantage point reveals the thought and craftsmanship that went into construction. Old glass electric insulators have been repurposed as pendant lights. Reclaimed barn wood from Ohio was used to build both indoor and outdoor tables. Flight trays were made from wine barrel stays and tap handles are pieces of rough wood. Even the restrooms reflect deliberate design choices that convey an attention to detail in all Kalna and company do.
While Plum Pointe Kitchen keeps the menu brief, it’s big on taste. Gallaher puts a whole new twist on soft pretzels with a giant crab-stuffed version that garners rave reviews online. Local seafood is often featured on the slider menu and Ocracoke grown oysters make for a fabulous po’ boy sandwich. At 1718, you won’t have to choose between a great brewery experience or a great dining experience. Here, you’re assured of both.
Follow Plum Pointe Kitchen and 1718 Brewing Ocracoke on Facebook.
Lost Colony Brewery
Here's another nearby brewery in Stumpy Point you may want to check out.
