Blue Jay – The Beginnings

Blue Jay Brewing is the passion project of native St. Louisians, Nicole and Jay Thompson. Jay has been brewing beer for over two decades, refining his craft in L.A., DC Metro, and Chicagoland, before returning home to lead the brewing team at UCBC and launching Blue Jay in December 2023. Nicole keeps the whole show running with her natural hospitality and front-of-house magic.  Together, they take pride in being part of St. Louis’ rich brewing history, making great beer, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome.

Brewing Innovation

LAGER! Jay’s a self-proclaimed malt grain guy, always chasing ways to make beer that’s balanced, drinkable, and full of character. That’s how beers like New Roots came to life, brewed with Kernza —a perennial grain that’s better for the soil and the planet. For us, brewing is about curiosity and creativity, and always keeping beer approachable. 

Farm Spirit Joins the Family

Great beer deserves great food, and our friends at Farm Spirit deliver. You might’ve caught them smashing burgers and breakfast sandwiches at Tower Grove’s Farmers’Market. At Blue Jay, they’ve kept that same farmers-market soul but built a menu that pairs perfectly with a pint. Simple, thoughtful food made with care, just like the beer.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

We care about the beer, the people drinking it, and the place we all call home. That’s why we bought most of our brewing gear second-hand, set the place up with LED lights, and send our spent grain to local farmers. Even our beers carry that spirit—like New Roots, our lager brewed with Kernza, a grain designed to fight climate change. We’re not here to pat ourselves on the back; it just feels right to do things the responsible way.

Why We’re Here

Blue Jay has never been about following trends or being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about creating a spot where you can hang out, grab a pint, watch a game, and feel like you belong. Somehow along the way, we picked up national recognition as Brewery of the Year, 2025—which is wild. But honestly? The real win is seeing our neighbors, friends, and families filling the space we built with a whole lot of love (and plenty of lagers).