Iron Street Distillery

Iron Street Distillery, located near the east end of downtown St. Cloud opened in January 2023. They were the first-to-market distillery in the St. Cloud area. They serve quality spirits, including vodka, rum, gin, rye whiskey, and bourbon matched with fresh ingredients to create delicious, handcrafted cocktails.

Kevin Johnson, owner of KJohnson Construction in Rice, MN,  purchased the 64,000+ sq ft building now home to Iron Street in December of 2021. Kevin hated to see the old solid steel structure torn down, so with a vision of revitalizing the site, he set forth to breathe new life into the space. Kevin and long-time friend John Martens both grew up around the Mankato area and reconnected when John had recently moved to the area. John had been retired for several years and was looking for a new path. Kevin had an idea to open a Distillery and was in need of someone to invest, stand up the business, and continue to run the full operation. John agreed to join Kevin on the adventure and Iron Street Distillery was born.

“We take our spirits and handcraft signature cocktails that contain only the freshest ingredients. We hand squeeze our lemons and puree fresh strawberries; we import the very best cherries from Italy. Our cocktails are not “fast” but they are made with love and each one is of the highest standard,” shared Laci Qualls, Iron Street Marketing Manager. “We buy local when and where we can. Our basil and mint are delivered from White Clover Farms just down the road in Paynesville and we’re experimenting with other local flavors like Eminent Coffee Roasters (coming soon: infused Kaluaha!). We also partner with local vendors, artists, and businesses to provide activities, food trucks, and entertainment at Iron Street for patrons to enjoy.”

Playing a small part in revitalizing the area is something that the team at Iron Street takes great pride in, despite challenges and - literal - barriers. “With road construction on every side of us and our recent parking lot re-engineering, we’re looking forward to the ease of parking for guests. We now offer 178 brand-new parking spaces! As the first distillery in St. Cloud, educating our guests on the local, state, and federal rules we must adhere to is also an area where guests are surprised. We can only serve spirits that we make in-house, so things like vermouth or triple sec, we need to find alternatives to. We also are not able to provide beer or wine.”

“Central MN is awesome and so are our guests! We’re not overly “fancy” but relaxed enough for you to enjoy a quality cocktail and conversation. We’ve met some really amazing people from right here in St. Cloud, and many who just happen by while they are passing through from the north or the Cities. We’ve also made great connections with businesses, charities, and individuals who have chosen Iron Street to host parties, meetings, fundraisers, and casual get-togethers. We have the flexibility and staffing to make each event unique and special.”

Iron Street Distillery is open Tuesday through Thursday from 4-9pm, Friday and Saturday from noon to 11pm, and Sunday from noon to 6pm. Guests are welcome to bring their own food in or have something delivered right to the distillery.

“Whether you collect bottles of Bourbon, or you love a fresh mocktail, we’ve got quality beverages at reasonable prices in a comfortable and inviting setting. Soon, we will begin distribution to other local venues and liquor stores.  Whether you come in for a cocktail and a bottle or try it somewhere else, we appreciate the business - we hope to see you soon!”

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