Mid-1900s
A Hub of Commerce
Over the decades, the building continued to be a local business hub, housing various commercial ventures that served the Smithfield community.
Red Point Taphouse is a local eatery and micro brewery located in the heart of Smithfield, VA. Though it may be small, its historic story spans for nearly a century. The building which Red Point Tap House resides in, has had dozens of businesses over the years. Starting as a gas station called Red Point Service Station, in 1929.
Red Point Tap House is ran with love by a small family, who had a vision to turn this landmark into a charming local eatery and gathering place. It all became a reality when the doors opened back in 2021, while also successfully keeping the familiar feel of craveable dishes – and of course the reputable beer we have become known for. Not only has our menu and beer stayed true to the roots of Smithfield, so have our values.
Moving on to present day, we are excited to continue bringing delicious fair and neighborhood events. Dedicating ourselves to serving great food, with genuine hospitality. We invite you to come for the food and stay for the experience. Bring your family, meet your neighbors, celebrate those wins, and make new connections and friends over one of our in house brewed beers.
“Everything is homemade and assembled from scratch,” Julie Hess said. “We have a very limited menu and it’s going to change quite often in terms of what’s fresh, seasonal and what the chef feels like preparing … so, it’s not going to be the same experience every time.”
The drink menu includes craft cocktails, wine, house brew beer and a variety on tap from small, local breweries on the Peninsula and Southside.
“We want to provide a place that delivers local food and drinks of exceptional quality, that is a place where people can relax and enjoy the company of others and that highlights the history and community feeling of Smithfield,” Ryan said.
Red Point Taphouse is a craft brewery + kitchen located in Smithfield, VA. Offering an eclectic menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, paired with house brews, craft cocktails, and wines in a casual vintage atmosphere.
Nick Hess, a naval chief warrant officer, and Derek Joyner met as local coaches for their sons’ baseball teams. They realized their shared desire and vision to delve back into restaurant ownership. Ryan, a retired Army colonel, is another local and longtime home brewer who rounded out the trifecta to share his expertise.
The Beginning: Red Point Service Station
The building continued to house various commercial ventures serving the Smithfield community.
Transformed into a craft brewery and restaurant by founders Nick Hess, Derek Joyner, and Tim Ryan.
Ben and Elen Osmanosn took over Red Point Taphouse, preserving history while introducing new flavors.
Over the decades, the building continued to be a local business hub, housing various commercial ventures that served the Smithfield community.
The building originally served as Red Point Service Station, a key stop for travelers and locals in Smithfield, providing fuel and automotive services.
In January 2025, Ben and Elen Osmanson took over Red Point Taphouse, committed to preserving its history while bringing exciting new flavors and experiences to Smithfield.
Red Point Taphouse is a craft brewery + kitchen located in Smithfield, VA. Offering an eclectic menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, paired with house brews, craft cocktails, and wines in a casual vintage atmosphere.
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