The Pitstop Bottle Shop was once a big open space on 153rd Street. Now, it is a tap room with 18 beers on tap and 375 different bottled beers available.
It is the business venture of John Hopps, a homebrewer with 20 years experience and his wife, Joey, an accountant for 25 years.

They both like craft beers but did not want to have to drive to Federal Way to satisfy their interest. In October, 2014, after a six-month buildout, they opened at 216 S.W. 153rd in a 4,460 s.f. space.

That big space dictated a large bar area and more room for specialty beers on display in cold cases around the interior walls. They also built a walll behind the bar and created a party room.

"We cashed out everything to open," Joey said. We risked everything because we think Burien needs something like this."

John has been a homebrewer for 20 years, making his special Blacktop Ales. (He's a car guy with an interest in NASCAR). He does not sell his brew at the shop, but still likes making it at home.

IPAs are the biggest seller at Pitstop. "Ninety percent of the customers know what they want," Joey said. She likes educating people about craft beer, though she does not drink alcohol. She said the shop plans to offer mead and sake within the next 18 months.

The tap offerings include 16 beers and two ciders.

A special feature of the new shop is a cooperative agreement with some local eateries. While enjoying a frosty beverage, you can order food from ten (so far) restaurants. Some will deliver your order. Want a pizza to go with that microbrew? Bella Luna and Bison Creek will make it happen. Other restaurants the have their menus available the shop include Greek House, Verona, Happy Garden, K's Teriyaki, Jersey Mike's, Sushi Maki, Snack Gyro and Herfy's.

The party room has tables and chairs and can be reserved for your group.

Pitstop has already developed a following. "We have had an amazing reception from the community," Joey said. "Our grand opening was insane."

The tap selection is subject to constant change. "When a keg blows, "Joey said," we put in a different beer." Craft beer kegs are held in reserve in a walk-in cooler behind the bar. If you want to keep up with the changes, download the Pitstop app on your smart phone. Joey updates it daily.

Last week, they added outdoor seating on a newly-poured concrete fenced patio pad where you can sit in the sun (hopefully) and enjoy a brew.

There are plans for special event nights including Brewers Night featuring samples from variety of brewers and Doggie Bingo, a fundraiser the first Friday of each month to benefit the Animal Air and Rescue Foundation.

You can also like them Facebook and on Twitter @pitstopbottles.

Shop hours are: M-Thurs 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., F-S, Noon to 11 p.m. and Sun., 11-6 p.m.