Looking back, from the moment we decided to start a taproom without a restaurant, we knew it was going to be hard to tell potential customers toting children that everyone must be 21 to enter. While this wasn't and everyday occurrence, there was always a chance a group of adults with a baby would walk in sometime over the weekend. Our staff would dread this and say "not it" under their breaths, because it was so hard to send people away. No, we didn't hate your kids, it was just a city ordinance that stated we are a drinking establishment, and since we do not serve food, that meant no minors.
Since then, more breweries and local businesses have opened and downtown Wichita is becoming an area people want to explore and hang out, which for many means more kid and pet friendly places are a must.
With many local parents and business owners speaking out, the Wichita City Council passed and ordinance on May 15, 2018 allowing minors in microbreweries until 10pm as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
While we are very excited to be more family friendly, please keep in mind that we are still a small space that serves beer, wine, coffee, popcorn, and chips. We will not be modifying our menu offerings at this time, and ask that everyone be respectful of all patrons whether they are stopping by with their little ones in tow, or enjoying a night away from the kids. We are proud of the diverse community we have created at the Gnome and want to see this continue as we grow and move in to our fourth year of business.
Cheers,
Stacy, HBIC