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From Homebrewers to Brewery Owners: Chubby Mermaid Brewing Opens in Bonita Springs
Updated: Jul 16, 2025
Looking for a new place to grab a cold brew in Bonita Springs? Chubby Mermaid Brewing just might be the perfect spot for you!
Opened on October 26, Chubby Mermaid Brewing brings a fresh, fun, and inviting atmosphere to Southwest Florida’s craft beer scene. Founded by Gary Fortin and Josh Hoover, two passionate homebrewers with 15 years of experience, the brewery is located in the Causeway Commerce Park area of Bonita Springs. The journey to brewery ownership began years ago when Gary and Josh first connected through a shared love of homebrewing on YouTube. After meeting in person and realizing they shared a dream of opening a brewery together, they set out on this exciting adventure.
After months of searching for the right location and overcoming delays, they finally found their ideal space, which sits off Old 41 Road. This modern, industrial setting now houses their 4.2-barrel brew house, offering 19 draft beers for every taste. The brewery’s rotating selection includes hazy IPAs, coconut IPAs, German and Mexican lagers, Belgian golden ales, and even gluten-free options made from alternative grains like buckwheat and quinoa. Seasonal favorites, such as their Oktoberfest beer, add to the variety and excitement for visitors.
But the Chubby Mermaid experience doesn’t stop at just great beer. The space is comfortable, with plans for outdoor seating and an upper-level lounge for a unique, relaxed vibe. And for those craving a bite to eat, they’ll soon offer a menu with wings, fries, pizza, and sandwiches that pair perfectly with their crafted brews.
Named after manatees, the Chubby Mermaid brand also gives back to the community by donating a portion of every beer sale to the Save the Manatee Club. It’s clear that this brewery is not only passionate about great beer but also about supporting the local environment.
Chubby Mermaid Brewing joins the growing craft beer community in Naples, Bonita Springs, and Estero, becoming the seventh brewery in the area. With its friendly atmosphere, delicious brews, and commitment to sustainability, Chubby Mermaid Brewing is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in Southwest Florida.
For more information, visit their website or reach out to Chubby Mermaid Brewing directly at:
Visit Chubby Mermaid Brewing today to discover your new favorite beer!
Website: Chubby Mermaid Brewing
Location: Causeway Commerce Park, Bonita Springs, FL
Phone: (239) 555-1234
With its playful name, creative bites, and coastal-cool vibe, Chubby Mermaid is already making waves in Bonita Springs. It’s the kind of spot that captures what locals love most—good food, good energy, and that effortless Gulf Coast charm. Whether you’re nearby and soaking it all in or visiting and thinking, “I could get used to this lifestyle,” I can help. From breezy beach cottages to stylish homes just minutes from spots like this, I’ll help you find your perfect place on the coast.
Renee Hahn, 🌐Your Naples Real Estate Expert
📞239-287-2576
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