The Cedar Tap is Lebanon’s first craft beer taproom offering regional beer, cider and seltzer, as well as a small selection of bar food. Mat Poole and Ryan Jensen founded the bar in late October of 2021, and they will be celebrating its first anniversary October 21 through October 23.
Both Jensen and Poole have a passion for both craft beer and building community. Poole is a local audio engineer and entrepreneur. Jensen is a co-owner of both Cedar Tap and Marrowbone Brewing in Ashland City, Tennessee, and the managing partner for both locations.
“Mat and I are excited about being a part of such a receptive and supportive community,” said Jensen on their Facebook page. “We’re focused on embracing the history of the square while bringing a fresh and welcoming atmosphere.”
The brew pub is located on the left side of the square in the former home of Pocket Billiards, which was what was in their space in the 1940s. Like Cedar Tap, it was a watering hole and local gathering place.
Offering a rotation of local beers on draft, they serve flights, half-pours and pints. Their current selection includes ale, sours, lager, IPA, blond, Marzen, Porter and Stout in a range of flavors. For October, there are a number of Octoberfest, apple and pumpkin spice selections.
Frequently they allow local brewers to “take over” the taps and offer a “trunk showing” of their beers. They have had visits from local brewers such as Good People, Bearded Iris and East Nashville Brew Works. Mead, wine and an assortment of bourbons are also available.
While their menu is limited, everything is made in-house. Their signature appetizer is a large Bavarian pretzel stick with their homemade beer cheese. Additional options include flat breads made on naan, quesadillas, chips and pico, and nachos.
The space has a relaxed atmosphere and cool urban vibe with a minimalistic bar, four-top wood tables, brick walls and metal seating. As one reviewer said, “[It’s a] great stop for a quick beer or cider and some yummy bar food. The pretzel bites were warm and fresh and the dips were a great compliment…[You] order at the counter and seat yourself, then they bring it to you after you sit… It’s kinda fast food meets pub…If you find yourself in downtown Lebanon, and want to relax with friends over a drink or catch a game…this is worth the stop.”
On Friday and Saturday night there is music. They also have trivia nights, pop up shops, fun tastings – like ice cream and beer pairings – and fundraising for local non-profits. Main Street Mercantile and Creamery provided the ice cream for their recent pairing events, and their Pups and Pints Trivia nights raise money for New Leash Tennessee.
“We’re incredibly humbled by the community’s response,” said the partners. “Thank you again Lebanon and…stay thirsty!”
The Cedar Tap
107 West Main Street
Lebanon, Tennessee
https://www.facebook.com/thecedartap/
https://thecedartap.com/
Hours: Wednesday through Thursday, 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Friday, 4:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Saturday, 11:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Sunday, 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.
