Eight years after Sonder first opened its doors in Mason, community remains central to the brewery. Sonder Brewing President and Co-founder Justin Neff points to the longstanding concept of a “third space,” a place outside of home and work where people can connect with their community.
“From the beginning, we wanted the taproom to feel like a ‘community center,’ a place where everyone feels welcome and where people can come together,” says Justin.
The brewery's name, Sonder, reflects the idea that each person lives a rich and complex life with experiences and stories uniquely their own. Sonder carries that individuality into its beers, each with its own distinct flavor profile and story.
A full calendar of events gives guests plenty of reasons to gather beyond grabbing a beer, with Sonder frequently hosting everything from fundraisers like their annual Sonder & Friends Oktoberfest to Mahjong, trivia, cookie decorating and live music. Sonder also marks its anniversary each year with a themed celebration. After saddling up for last year's Western-themed festivities, the brewery is heading to summer camp for year eight. Camp Sonder takes place on October 24.
“We’re constantly looking for new ways to bring entertainment, experiences and community events to our taprooms that give people a reason to come together alongside great beer and food,” Justin explains.
Great food has also become an important part of the Sonder experience. After partnering with BrewRiver to operate its food program since opening in 2018, Sonder brought the Mason kitchen in house in 2024, giving Executive Chef Ian Moxley and the team greater creative control and more opportunities to connect the food and beer.
“What I love most is that our menu and beer selection offer something for everyone, whether it's pairing a You Betcha! with smash burgers, Festbier with pretzels or Eagle Light with fish tacos,” Ian tells us. “Our offerings are truly as unique as our name.”
At Mason, Ian puts Sonder brews to work in the kitchen, adding Voss to the beer cheese and topping smash burgers with You Betcha! aioli. He also enjoys finding new ways to reinvent familiar flavors.
“I enjoy putting creative twists on childhood favorites, like transforming the classic grilled cheese and tomato soup combination into our beeria grilled cheese with consommé,” Ian shares.
Ian also works with the Sonder brewing team on pairings for Family Tradition dinners and anniversary celebrations, including a Camp Sonder menu featuring twists on summer camp favorites. The brewing team is preparing special releases, such as S'more Eagle and Caramel Apple Voss, with limited anniversary beers rolling out throughout the celebration.
“Every year, our Sonder anniversary party is one of my favorite days of the year,” Justin enthuses. “It’s an emotional day for me. I find myself reflecting on the journey and feeling incredibly grateful for all of the people who have played a role in making Sonder what it is today.”
And while eight years offers plenty to celebrate, Justin and the Sonder team are already looking ahead.
“After eight years, there’s still a lot we’re excited to build,” Justin adds.
Coming up next, the Sonder Family Tradition barrel-aged stout bottle sale returns on Black Friday. Follow Sonder Brewing on social media for the latest beer releases, announcements and event details. SonderBrewing.com
“After eight years, there’s still a lot we’re excited to build."—Justin Neff
“What I love most is that our menu and beer selection offer something for everyone, whether it's pairing a You Betcha! with smash burgers, Festbier with pretzels, or Eagle Light with fish tacos.”—Ian Moxley