Nestled in the vibrant community of Pigtown, Baltimore, Mystique Barrel Brewing and Lager House is more than a brewery; it’s a testament to passion, resilience, and creativity. For Tom Pagano, owner and brewer, it represents a culmination of over a decade of dreaming, planning, and hands-on experience in nearly every facet of the beer industry.
During my visit to Mystique, Tom shared his journey with candid insights into the triumphs and tribulations of starting a brewery. The result is a compelling story that combines deep roots in the craft beer industry with an unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and elevated beer experience.
“Slaughter houses located near the railroad yards earned the area its name as Pigtown as workers herded pigs for slaughter and processing to shops and packing plants across the streets from the rail cars.”
Crafting the Foundation
Tom’s journey to Mystique started long before the brewery’s official opening on November 7, 2023. A Long Island native, he moved to Baltimore after college and began immersing himself in the beer scene, working at various breweries, including Mobtown, Checkerspot, and Suspended Brewing. Each role, from running food during the pandemic to assisting with production, gave him a panoramic view of the beer industry.
“I think I got a good crash course,” Tom remarked, recounting his early experiences. “But nothing prepared me like owning your own business. Now, it’s all on you.”
“I think I got a good crash course,” Tom remarked, recounting his early experiences. “But nothing prepared me like owning your own business. Now, it’s all on you.”
Tom’s hands-on background extended beyond brewing. His time working at Maryland Homebrew and a stint as a pandemic-era food runner added layers to his understanding of the industry. “I’ve done it all,” he laughed, acknowledging the various roles he held over the years.
During his time at Suspended Brewing, located in the very building Mystique now occupies, Tom began envisioning his own brewery. The opportunity was clear when Suspended’s owners moved to a new location. After months of negotiations, planning, and renovations, Tom secured the space, marking the beginning of Mystique Barrel and Lager House.
Building Mystique
Transforming the space into Mystique was no small feat. From redesigning the draft system to reclaiming materials for furniture and décor, the brewery embodies sustainability and ingenuity.
“We tried to reclaim everything. Even the shelving behind the bar was made from materials salvaged during the buildout.”
“We tried to reclaim everything,” Tom shared, gesturing to the tables made from repurposed wood and the bar, a custom-built centerpiece. “Even the shelving behind the bar was made from materials salvaged during the buildout.”
This ethos extends beyond construction. Mystique operates on clean energy, from its brewing system to its lighting, showcasing a commitment to sustainability that resonates with today’s environmentally conscious beer enthusiasts.
The name “Mystique” reflects Tom’s passion for mixed fermentation (or “mixed firm”) beers. “There’s an ever-evolving process with yeast and microbes in mixed fermentation—it’s something mystical,” he explained. But Mystique isn’t limited to one style. The addition of “Lager House” to the name underscores their love for lagers, balancing the brewery’s offerings with more accessible styles like IPAs, porters, and even hard seltzers.
“We didn’t want to be just known for barrel-aged beer or mixed firm styles,” Tom said. “One cannot live on that alone.”
Beer for All
Mystique’s approach to beer is as inclusive as it is innovative. Their lineup of ten beers caters to a variety of tastes, from an approachable corn lager to a Flanders red ale that’s already earning fans. Each beer is served in style-specific glassware, reflecting the brewery’s focus on creating an elevated drinking experience.
“If you value the beer, you put it in the right vessel; It’s about creating an experience.”
“If you value the beer, you put it in the right vessel,” Tom emphasized as he showcased Mystique’s array of glasses, each chosen to complement a specific beer style. “It’s about creating an experience.”
Mystique’s inclusivity extends beyond beer. Recognizing that not everyone drinks beer, they offer wine, cider, and even non-alcoholic beverages crafted in-house. “My wife prefers wine,” Tom admitted with a chuckle, “so having options was a no-brainer. We want everyone to enjoy the brewery.”
Dogs are also welcome, adding to the brewery’s family-friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. “Yesterday felt like a dog park in here,” Tom said with a smile. “It’s all about creating a space where everyone feels at home.”
The Kitchen: Beer-Inspired Bites
Mystique’s food program is as intentional as its beer. Led by a local chef, the menu emphasizes small bites designed to pair with beer. From pretzels served with house-made beer mustard to surprisingly popular pierogies, every dish adds to the brewery’s charm.
“Our pulled pork gets a lot of attention,” Tom said, noting that every article about Mystique seems to mention it. “It’s funny—sometimes it feels like the food gets more buzz than the beer!”
Challenges and Triumphs
Opening a brewery is no easy task, and Tom is candid about the challenges he faced. From delays in licensing to faulty equipment, every step was a learning experience. “Nothing was easy,” he admitted. “We thought we’d open in May, but it took ten months.”
One of the more expensive surprises was a trench drain that wasn’t connected to any plumbing, requiring an unplanned $20,000 fix. But through it all, Tom’s passion and persistence never wavered. “We took our fair share of hits, but we’re glad to be here.”
Looking Ahead
With the brewery now open, Tom is focused on building momentum. Plans include expanding their mixed fermentation program, launching barrel-aging projects, and hosting events like cooking classes and the popular Baltimore Bike Party.
“We’re just excited to share the space with more people,” he said. “It’s about fine-tuning what we’ve started and continuing to grow.”
“We chose clean energy for a reason. It’s who we are.”
Mystique’s commitment to sustainability also remains a priority. From grain recycling to exploring water conservation, Tom sees these practices as integral to the brewery’s identity. “We chose clean energy for a reason,” he said. “It’s who we are.”
Community and Collaboration
Mystique is firmly rooted in the local community. As part of the South Baltimore Brewing District, the brewery is a destination for beer lovers exploring the area’s vibrant craft beer scene. Tom is also eager to collaborate with other breweries and participate in local festivals.
“We’re all friends in the industry,” he said, reflecting on his relationships with other brewers. “It’s a tight-knit community.”
The Dream Realized
For Tom Pagano, Mystique Barrel and Lagerhouse is more than a business—it’s the realization of a dream nurtured over years of hard work and dedication. From the first sip of their carefully crafted beers to the warmth of their reclaimed wood tables, Mystique invites you to experience the passion and creativity that define its story.
“Craft beer is about more than just the beer. It’s about the people, the community, and the journey. That’s what we’re building here.”
“Craft beer is about more than just the beer,” Tom said. “It’s about the people, the community, and the journey. That’s what we’re building here.”
As Mystique opens its doors to the world, it’s clear that this brewery is more than just a place to enjoy great beer—it’s a labor of love and a reflection of the spirit that makes craft beer so special.
