Community is not a word used lightly within the walls of The Noble Pig Brewhouse. Every decision—from the partners to the culinary team, brewing staff, and front-of-house—is guided by how it will impact the communities that surround and support them.
The Noble Pig’s roots in Kamloops run deep. Their dedication and grassroots efforts, which have earned them this year’s City of Kamloops Community Service Award from the Kamloops Chamber, are a testament to their 15 years of community building. For the team, this honour is not just about peer recognition. It’s a reflection of their long-term commitment to support, sustainability, and genuine care for the community.
Since opening its doors in 2010 as Kamloops’ first craft brewery, The Noble Pig has not just been a part of the city’s beer and food scene but a driving force in shaping it. Led by managing partners Maeghan Summers (operating manager), Jared Summers (executive chef), Nick Murphy (head brewer), and Sara Hanrahan (restaurant manager), they have set out to create a space where locals and visitors could gather, enjoy upscale yet approachable food, and sip craft brews that tell a story.
Their beer program began with four flagship brews inspired by the classic tale of ‘The Three Little Pigs’: the Munich helles lager Straw House, the Belgian pepper ale Stick House, the mocha porter Stone House, and the India pale ale Big Bad Wolf. Over the years, these beers have become more than menu items; they’ve become local staples, loved for their quality and brewed with the spirit of the Kamloops craft beer scene.
Food and Beer, Rooted in Community
The Noble Pig’s commitment to Kamloops goes beyond serving up great food and beer. It’s about making thoughtful choices that have a lasting impact on the community. Since 2010, The Noble Pig and their sister spot, Underbelly, have spent over $8 million on local food and contributed more than $250,000 to community projects. These investments strengthen Kamloops’ local economy and highlight the brewpub’s deep connection to the area.
Nearly all their ingredients come from within 100 kilometres, sourced from partners like Blackwell Dairy, Thistle Farms, and other local purveyors. Executive chef Jared Summers and his team transform ingredients into high-quality, playful dishes that nod to the brewhouse’s pig-themed branding. Sustainability is woven into every part of their oitchen.
In a tough industry, The Noble Pig has stayed strong, driven by a simple belief in doing what’s right. Their story isn’t just about their success—it’s about lifting up the greater Kamloops community, one choice at a time.
Beyond the Brew: Making a Difference
At The Noble Pig, community work is more than a checkbox; it’s a way of life. The brewhouse regularly supports local causes, from donating to hospital expansion programs to partnering with the local Rotary Club to benefit a wide range of community needs, from youth sports to hospice care. They also actively participate in initiatives that assist families in need, whether through fundraising efforts or by giving their time and resources.
The team takes pride in redirecting advertising dollars to community initiatives. Instead of traditional marketing, The Noble Pig invests in local events, fundraisers, and projects that have real, measurable impacts.
“We do it because it’s the right thing for our people,” the team shares. “The community pays our bills, so we take care of the community that takes care of us.”
Their efforts have a ripple effect, inspiring other local businesses to join in. The Noble Pig team doesn’t just celebrate their own success; they’re one of the loudest supporters of their peers, celebrating the growth of the Kamloops beer scene as a collective triumph.
*Read more about this summer’s fundraising collab brew Shot of Gold 2.0 here.
Crafting Moments and Memories
In a city with a proud, blue-collar work ethic, The Noble Pig balances tradition with innovation. Their playful spirit is evident in everything they do, from naming beers like the ultra-dry IPA Javelina* to debuting their now-famous Free Bird chicken sandwich marinated in leftover pickle juice from their housemade crispy pickles. But beneath the humour is a serious dedication to quality and community.
They’ve created a space where moments become memories—where visitors and locals alike feel connected to Kamloops. “We’re not just making food and beer; we’re gatekeepers to experiences that imprint on people’s lives,” Summers reflects. “That’s our role, and it’s the most rewarding job in the world.”
*Javelina pigs are a South American desert breed known for their love of hot, dry climates, which makes it the perfect name for an ultra-dry IPA!
Full Circle Community Impact
The Noble Pig’s impact is felt in every corner of Kamloops, from the farmers they support to the guests who leave with unforgettable memories. Their story is a testament to what can happen when a business chooses to invest in its community fully, weaving a tapestry of local pride, sustainable practices, and the simple joy of great beer and food.
Winning the Kamloops Chamber’s City of Kamloops Community Service Award may be a recent highlight, but for The Noble Pig, the real reward is knowing they’ve helped build a stronger, more connected Kamloops. As Hanrahan notes,
“Community and beer are the pillars of our success, and we’re just getting started.”
