The Final Pour: 8 Degrees Plato’s Legacy and Farewell to Detroit’s Craft Beer Scene

In the heart of Detroit's Cass Corridor, 8 Degrees Plato has been more than just a beer store; it’s been a cultural hub, a community gathering space, and a symbol of the city’s craft beer renaissance. For nearly a decade, this cherished bottle shop and bar has delighted beer enthusiasts with its meticulously curated selection of craft brews, hard ciders, meads, and wines. For those living in Metro Detroit, it became a staple for discovering unique beverages and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. However, as the year draws to a close, so too will the story of 8 Degrees Plato. Owners Tim Costello and Brigid Beaubien have announced the permanent closure of the shop on December 31, 2024, marking the end of an era for Detroit’s vibrant Midtown district. For anyone moving to Metro Detroit, it stands as a reminder of the area’s thriving and diverse craft beer culture.

8 Degrees Plato Detroit, Facebook

A Journey Rooted in Passion

The story of 8 Degrees Plato began with a passion for craft beer and a desire to bring something unique to Michigan’s beer scene. Tim Costello and Brigid Beaubien embarked on their entrepreneurial journey in 2011 with the opening of the first 8 Degrees Plato location in Ferndale. The store quickly garnered a loyal following, thanks to its wide array of rare and hard-to-find craft beers and its inviting, knowledgeable atmosphere. The name itself, a nod to the brewing process, reflects the couple’s dedication to celebrating the art and science of beer-making.

Encouraged by the success of their Ferndale store, Costello and Beaubien sought to expand their vision. In 2015, they opened a second location in Detroit’s Midtown district, choosing a 2,400-square-foot space at 3409 Cass Avenue. The site, housed in a historic building that once served as part of the city’s Chinatown, became a landmark for beer aficionados in the region. Incorporating reclaimed materials and custom furnishings, the shop exuded a welcoming charm that resonated with its patrons.

A Craft Beer Haven in Midtown

From the moment it opened its doors, the Detroit location of 8 Degrees Plato stood out for its exceptional offerings and community-focused ethos. The store featured 16 rotating taps, growler fills, and a thoughtfully curated selection of bottled beers from around the world. Whether customers sought a rare Belgian ale, a locally brewed IPA, or a crisp hard cider, 8 Degrees Plato delivered an unparalleled experience.

The store wasn’t just a place to purchase beer; it was a space to explore the stories behind each bottle. Costello and Beaubien cultivated an environment where patrons could learn about the intricacies of brewing, discover new flavors, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Over time, they expanded their offerings to include bottles of wine, hosting food pop-ups, and even selling unique merchandise like beer-inspired home goods.

A Legacy of Community and Celebration

What truly set 8 Degrees Plato apart was its ability to bring people together. The shop became known for its signature events, most notably the annual chili cook-off, which showcased the creativity of Detroit’s culinary community. Participants were challenged to craft chili recipes incorporating a specific beer, with the dishes judged by food industry professionals. This event, which drew a mix of seasoned chefs and enthusiastic amateurs, exemplified the shop’s commitment to fostering connections through shared experiences.

The venue also played an integral role in Midtown’s cultural fabric, participating in events like Noel Night, the beloved holiday celebration that attracts thousands of visitors to the area’s shops, restaurants, and museums. For many, a visit to 8 Degrees Plato during Noel Night became a cherished tradition, complete with lively conversations, festive cheer, and the discovery of new favorite brews.

The Challenges of Entrepreneurship

While 8 Degrees Plato enjoyed a devoted following and a strong reputation, running a small business in the ever-changing craft beer industry was not without its challenges. The closure of the Ferndale location in 2018 was a pivotal moment, allowing Costello and Beaubien to focus their efforts on the Detroit store. Around the same time, Beaubien launched Urbānum, a home furnishings and décor shop, showcasing her entrepreneurial versatility. She sold Urbānum in 2023, further streamlining her focus as the couple began contemplating their next steps.

Despite their successes, the landscape of the craft beer market posed increasing hurdles. The industry, once characterized by rapid growth and enthusiastic consumer interest, began to show signs of saturation. The challenges faced by 8 Degrees Plato were mirrored by other businesses in the region, including Jamex Brewing in St. Clair Shores, Ascension Brewing Company in Novi, and Arctic Circle Brewing in Chesterfield Township, all of which announced closures in recent years.

8 Degrees Plato Detroit, Facebook

A Difficult Decision

The announcement of 8 Degrees Plato’s closure came in November 2024 via a heartfelt social media post. Costello and Beaubien shared their decision to retire from the beer business after what they described as “countless sleepless nights and anxious days.” While owning and operating the Detroit store had been a rewarding experience, they felt it was time to pursue other aspirations.

Complicating matters was a recent purchase agreement for the shop that fell through. The deal, which could have allowed the store to continue under new ownership, ultimately did not come to fruition. As a result, the couple made the difficult choice to close the business themselves, ensuring that their final months of operation would be dedicated to celebrating the store’s legacy.

Saying Goodbye in Style

As the countdown to December 31 began, 8 Degrees Plato’s final weeks were filled with opportunities for customers to savor the store’s unique offerings and bid farewell. The shop’s annual chili cook-off, scheduled for December 8, promised to be a memorable highlight, drawing regulars and newcomers alike for one last spirited competition. Noel Night on December 6 provided another chance for patrons to experience the shop’s warm and inviting atmosphere, while the grand farewell party on December 28 offered a fitting send-off for this beloved Midtown institution.

These events reflected the spirit of 8 Degrees Plato—festive, inclusive, and deeply connected to the community it served. For Costello and Beaubien, these celebrations were not only a way to thank their loyal customers but also an opportunity to honor the relationships and memories forged over nearly a decade.

The Broader Impact on Midtown

The closure of 8 Degrees Plato represents more than just the end of a business; it marks a turning point for Midtown and Detroit’s craft beer scene. Over the years, the shop contributed to the revitalization of the Cass Corridor, helping to attract visitors and enliven the neighborhood. Its departure leaves a void that will be felt by both residents and the wider community of beer lovers.

At the same time, the closure is a reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses in a competitive and evolving market. The craft beer industry, while still vibrant, has reached a level of maturity that demands constant adaptation and innovation. For entrepreneurs like Costello and Beaubien, the decision to step away is as much about personal priorities as it is about market realities.

Looking Ahead

As Tim Costello and Brigid Beaubien prepare for life after 8 Degrees Plato, their legacy is secure. The store’s impact on Detroit’s craft beer culture and its role as a community hub will not be forgotten. For those living in Metro Detroit, the shop has been more than a business—it’s been a place to connect, celebrate, and share a passion for craft beer. While the details of their next chapter remain unclear, their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to fostering connections through shared passions will undoubtedly guide their future endeavors.

For Detroit’s beer enthusiasts and those moving to metro Detroit, the final weeks of 8 Degrees Plato are an opportunity to celebrate what the store has meant to them. Whether it’s discovering a new favorite brew, reminiscing about a past chili cook-off, or simply enjoying the welcoming ambiance, the shop’s legacy will live on in the memories of those who experienced it.

As the doors close on December 31, 2024, 8 Degrees Plato will leave behind not just an empty storefront, but a lasting impression on the city it called home. Its story is a testament to the power of community, the joy of discovery, and the enduring appeal of sharing a great beer with friends.