The area's first brew pub is closing its doors after 16 years, but you will still be able to enjoy their award-winning beer.

The Brew Pub, operated by the Mishawaka Brewing Company on Main Street in Mishawaka, will be closing at the end of the day this Wednesday.

"Business has plummeted," says owner Tom Schmidt. "A year and a half ago when gas prices started climbing, that's disposable income that people no longer have and one of the things they cut out is going out to dinner."

Tom says increased competition, Main Street's recent construction, high property taxes, and the smoking ban as some other reasons for closing.

Loyal customers say they were surprised and disappointed to hear they'll have to find a new hang out.

"We had some good times in here," says Scott Hickey.

"One of my son-in-laws took me to this place to ask for my daughter's hand in marriage. He knew I liked the place," Rob Schallhorn shares.

And we've all heard this one before.

"Nice to come to a place where everybody knows your name," Eric Pearson says.

The family's other restaurant, The Pub, located at the corner of Grape and Cleveland, will remain open, as well as their brewery in Elkhart. That means you can still buy the Mishawaka Brewing Company beer in some supermarkets.

Well for now, Tom leaves us with this piece of advice.

"Just keep drinking good beer."