If you’ve been in the brewpub in the last few weeks, you may have noticed a new face among our staff. Last month we welcomed Scott Allen as our new general manager, and Scott brings with him a multitude of hospitality experience and familiarity with our local community. We asked Scott to share a bit about what drives him to live and work in Ashland, and what he loves about working in the brewpub industry.
Tell us a bit about your restaurant experience (because, wow, there’s a lot).
Before moving to Ashland, I worked for McMenamins Pubs & Breweries in the Portland area for over 14 years. I managed many different venues during that time, including the Oregon City Pub, the Loading Dock Restaurant at the Edgefield Property, and the Rock Creek Tavern. I culminated my career with the McMenamin family as the general manager of the Kennedy School Property, a 35-room hotel with restaurant, small bars, movie theater and catering services. I always enjoyed working in a “Public House” environment, with the ability to provide a gathering place for families and friends along with great food and beer.
What motivated you to move to Ashland?
My wife, Gina, and I had a lifetime dream to relocate to Ashland. Members of my family have been here for almost 50 years, I lived here in my early twenties, and Gina had visited often in her twenties as well. I’ve always thought of Ashland as a magic place. There’s a great appeal to living in a small town as well as being a part of a closely-knit community. Of course, there are all the other fantastic features Southern Oregon has to offer - biking, skiing, hiking, theater and more – all moments from our doorsteps.
What has been your favorite part about doing business in Ashland?
When we moved to Ashland, we originally planned on purchasing an existing business. Instead, we began our property management company from the ground up. We saw an opportunity to do business in a different way here in Ashland, by engaging both our clients and our tenants in a more positive customer service experience. Being on a first name basis with our tenants, as well as providing that higher level of service, allowed us to grow our company very organically, almost solely on word-of-mouth referrals. The expansion of our client base over the last eight years could not have happened without the community involvement and support that Ashland offers.
What drove your decision to jump into Standing Stone?
When the opportunity to manage Standing Stone was presented to me, I was honored to be considered. This organization and its founders embody many of the principals that I hold dear - responsible stewardship of our planet and its limited resources, community involvement and support, sustainable farming practices, and healthy lifestyle choices.
I see the Standing Stone continuing to embrace these ideals, as well as providing an ever-improving customer service experience along with our great food and beverage options. In this way, I hope to see the Standing Stone’s mission grow and thrive.
Now the info we’ve all been waiting for…What is you favorite beer style, and favorite food pairing?
I am partial to lighter, crisp ales like our Commuter Gold or Hefeweizen in the summer months, but nothing beats a Chocolate or Oatmeal Stout after a day of skiing or hiking in the snow. This time of year, our Double IPA and Standing Stone fresh fish tacos are my hands-down favorite combination.
Thanks Scott! We’re excited to welcome you to the team and toast our pints with you after a long day of brewpub work.
