a 1928 service station in the historic west salem neighborhood repurposed as a german-inspired micro-brewery & pub

Located in a Historic District just down the block from Old Salem, Lesser-Known Beer Company’s tap house and microbrewery pays homage to the history of the region and celebrates the architecture of the historical Yates Service Station. Serving expertly crafted Czech and German-style lagers, owners Ryan and Will connect visitors with a tradition dating back to the founding of Salem in 1766 by Moravians originating in present-day Czech Republic.

Situated on a corner lot, the building’s large pump-station canopy is now a welcoming outdoor gathering space. Custom benches include planters that catch rainwater from the roof, providing a natural buffer from adjacent traffic.

The office-turned-taproom features historically accurate steel windows and refinished wood trim salvaged from a previously existing mezzanine. Original beadboard ceilings were replaced in kind, and an existing chimney provides a focal point, its peeling plaster revealing layers of history. A custom bar and glass storage shelving frame a pass-through window to the brewery beyond.

A service garage now houses the microbrewery, thanks to its higher ceilings, operable historical windows, and large overhead door. Imported monolithic tile and a custom Open Fermentation Room provide infrastructure for Lesser-Known’s traditional brewing processes.