King Maker Brewing Shutters After 6 Years in Jacksonville

The neighborhood craft brewery and community hub closed its doors for good on April 4.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:40pm

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After six years of serving as a craft brewery, neighborhood gathering place, and showcase for local artists in Jacksonville's Riverside area, King Maker Brewing has permanently closed its doors as of April 4.

Why it matters

The closure of King Maker Brewing represents the latest challenge for small, independent businesses in Jacksonville's evolving neighborhoods, as rising rents and shifting consumer trends continue to reshape the local retail landscape.

The details

King Maker Brewing, located at 720 King St., had operated as a microbrewery and community hub since 2020, offering a rotating selection of craft beers and hosting events that featured the work of local artists. The brewery also served as the home base for the popular food truck El Cubano Jax, known for its authentic Cuban sandwiches and Latin fare.

  • King Maker Brewing opened in 2020.
  • The brewery closed its doors permanently on April 4, 2026.

The players

King Maker Brewing

A craft brewery and neighborhood gathering place that operated in Jacksonville's Riverside area for six years before closing in 2026.

Chas Nemecek

Part-owner and head brewer at King Maker Brewing.

El Cubano Jax

A popular Jacksonville food truck known for its authentic Cuban sandwiches and other Latin fare, which had been based at King Maker Brewing.

Esteban Azofeifa

Founder and owner of El Cubano Jax food truck.

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What they’re saying

“Chas Nemecek, part-owner and head brewer at King Maker Brewing, raises a mug of its signature craft beer in a farewell toast on April 4, as the small Jacksonville microbrewery that also served as a neighborhood gathering place and a showcase for local artists shut its doors permanently.”

— Chas Nemecek, Part-owner and Head Brewer

The takeaway

The closure of King Maker Brewing highlights the ongoing challenges facing small, independent businesses in Jacksonville's evolving neighborhoods, as rising costs and shifting consumer preferences continue to reshape the local retail landscape.