Today we’d like to introduce you to Glenn Closson
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Ivanhoe Park Lager House is an extension of our passion for community, craft, and hospitality. Born out of the success of Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co., we wanted to create a space that went beyond exceptional beer to include amazing food, wine, and cocktails—all with the same welcoming and vibrant energy.
Situated just blocks from Orlando’s bustling Camping World Stadium, Ivanhoe Park Lager House opened its doors in 2024, blending modern charm with a nod to the history of the Ivanhoe Village District. The Lager House is more than a restaurant and bar—it’s a community hub where locals and visitors gather to enjoy handcrafted beverages, thoughtfully curated meals, and a rotating selection of events like Music Bingo, Trivia, and game-day celebrations.
The addition of a full kitchen allows us to offer elevated dining options, from artisan pizzas to creative small bites, making it the perfect spot for lunch, happy hour, or late-night bites. We’ve also curated a wine list to complement our diverse beer lineup, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re here to pregame for a big event, relax on the patio with friends, or enjoy a lively night out, Ivanhoe Park Lager House delivers a welcoming atmosphere and a true taste of Orlando.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey to creating Ivanhoe Park Lager House, like any worthwhile venture, has had its share of challenges. Building off the success of Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co., we knew we wanted to expand our offerings and create a space that combined exceptional craft beer with delicious food and a welcoming environment. However, the road to achieving this vision wasn’t without obstacles.
One of the biggest challenges was navigating the renovation and transformation of our historic location into the vibrant Lager House it is today. The process required careful planning, especially as we sought to balance modern amenities with honoring the charm and history of Ivanhoe Village. It wasn’t just about creating a physical space but also about cultivating an atmosphere that reflected our community’s unique energy.
Timing was another challenge. Opening the Lager House in 2024 meant launching amidst a competitive market and evolving customer expectations. We had to work hard to stand out by curating a menu that complemented our craft beer and wine selections while ensuring every guest experience was memorable.
Additionally, as with any business, adapting to external factors like construction disruptions and seasonal shifts in foot traffic required resilience and creativity. For example, construction in the area affected operations for both the Lager House and Brewing Co., but we stayed focused on providing a consistent, high-quality experience for our guests.
Through these challenges, we leaned on our team’s dedication, the support of our local community, and our commitment to creating a space where everyone feels at home. Each hurdle has only strengthened our resolve to be a cornerstone of the neighborhood—a place where people can come together over great food, drink, and conversation.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Ivanhoe Park Lager House is more than just a bar or restaurant; it’s a community gathering place where great beer, delicious food, and warm hospitality come together. Located in the heart of Ivanhoe Village, we’ve created a space that celebrates the art of craft beer while offering an elevated dining experience.
We specialize in pairing our award-winning beers—crafted by the talented brewing team behind Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co.—with a carefully curated menu of mouthwatering dishes. From shareable appetizers to hearty entrees and rotating seasonal specials, we’re all about offering something for everyone. Beyond beer, we boast an impressive wine selection, highlighting carefully chosen bottles that complement our menu.
What sets us apart is the unique blend of our offerings and our dedication to community engagement. We’re not just about what’s on the menu but about creating experiences. Weekly events like Music Bingo, Trivia Nights, and special beer releases keep things exciting. Plus, we’re proud to be located just blocks from major Orlando venues like Camping World Stadium, making us the go-to spot for pregame festivities, post-event celebrations, and everything in between.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of the way Ivanhoe Park Lager House extends the legacy of Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. Both are built on the principles of quality, creativity, and a deep connection to Orlando’s history and culture. Whether it’s hosting local events, collaborating with area businesses, or simply serving as a neighborhood staple, we aim to make everyone who visits feel like they’re part of our family.
What we want readers to know is that we’re here to provide more than just a meal or drink—we’re here to create memories. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual night out, celebrating a special occasion, or exploring Orlando’s vibrant local scene, Ivanhoe Park Lager House is the place to be.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes us happy at Ivanhoe Park Lager House is the joy of serving our community and seeing smiles on our guests’ faces. There’s nothing quite like the energy of people coming together to share great food, perfectly poured beers, and memorable experiences. From hosting special events to cheering on local sports teams, every moment spent connecting with our customers fills us with gratitude.
It’s the little things—like a guest discovering their new favorite beer, a family celebrating a milestone, or even a spontaneous round of Music Bingo—that remind us why we do what we do. We’re happiest when we’re bringing people together and making their day just a little brighter.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.IvanhoeParkBrewing.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/ivanhoeparklagerhouse
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IvanhoeParkLagerHouse/
Image Credits
Andrea Calo via Deadwords Brewing
