Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery, one of the first tenants in the Waterfront in Homestead, has closed.

The first Rock Bottom opened in Denver in 1991. At one time there were 17 locations across the U.S. There are currently 12.

When it opened 25 years ago, it was one of the few options for craft beer in Pittsburgh.

“They haven’t put any money back into it,” said Herky Pollock, the leasing broker for the space. “They lost their way and it’s not just them. That is happening across the country.”

Pollock said there is a lot more formidable local, regional and national competition the brewing industry.

“Pittsburgh is the No. 1 beer town in America,” Pollock said. “You have to be on top of your game. Twenty five years ago it was different. There are so many incredible brew pubs and tap houses that you have to do what it takes to stay relevant.”

He said brew pubs offer something unique from beers to food to events to keep people coming in.

He said he has had some interest in the space and doesn’t expect it to remain empty for too long. It’s in a prominent location and next to one of the best Dave & Buster’s in the country, he said.

“The Waterfront has transformed itself into one of the preeminent spaces,” he said. “It’s the No. 1 outdoor shopping center in Pennsylvania traffic wise. It’s a huge opportunity for someone.”

In an emailed statement from Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery’s director of communications and cause marketing Ryan Russell said the location permanently closed on June 28.

“At SPB Hospitality (operator and franchiser), our decisions on restaurant closures are influenced by everything from real estate, new restaurant decisions and lease-negotiation strategies,” the statement said. “We do not take these decisions lightly and after careful review, we have made the strategic decision to close this location. We want to express our sincere gratitude to our patrons who have supported us over the years at this location. We are grateful for the memories and experiences we have shared together, and we will always cherish the relationships we have built with our loyal customers.”

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