High Steel Beer Co. Joins MasonEDC Membership!
Mason County, WA – May 5, 2025 – High Steel Beer Co. in Shelton, Washington isn’t just another brewery—it’s a celebration of place, people, and purpose. Originally founded as Smoking Mo’s in a small take-out shack behind Domino’s back in 2007, the business later moved into the historic State Bank of Shelton building (now home to County Line Fire Pizza) before eventually expanding into its current home: the former Grove Street Brewery, which had sat vacant for years. Owners Mo and Tom had long envisioned creating a craft beer bar, and when the right space opened up, they brought that dream to life—transforming it into a full-fledged beer destination deeply rooted in Mason County tradition.
The name High Steel pays homage to the iconic High Steel Bridge and the Skokomish Valley—landmarks that inspire freedom, beauty, and local pride. Every detail inside the brewery tells a story: long live-edge cedar tables sourced from the Skok Valley, old windows repurposed from historic local buildings, and one of their signature brews featuring a rotating series of can designs, each highlighting a different shellfish farmer from Mason County. Even the beers are infused with Mason County spirit—from their names to their flavors and ingredients. Tom and Mo meet with fellow brewers from Potlatch Brewing Co. once a year to hand-pick locally grown, storied hops for their annual fresh hop collaboration. Beyond the tap list, you’ll find locally made soaps crafted with High Steel beer, oysters harvested by Hama Hama, and Olympic Mountain Ice Cream served up in their kitchen.
Visitors can expect more than just great beer. High Steel offers a welcoming, family-friendly space that feels like a slice of Mason County itself. Events like open mic nights every other Wednesday—hosted by the harmonica-playing Kirk, who even has a beer named after him (K-Dog Lager)—create opportunities for connection, creativity, and community. Another fan favorite, Dogs and Frisbees Pale Ale, is named after a song lyric from a band that used to play in the area—a local favorite that toured around the time the restaurant first opened. From beer-related songs and whipped cream farewells for staff on their final shift, to a crew that brings personality, warmth, and heart to everything they do, High Steel is a place where stories are shared and memories are brewed.
As Mo put it best, “The health of our business is determined by the health of our community.” Their long-term vision includes telling the story of the people who come through their doors—filling their space with memories, milestones, and historical photos of Mason County’s past. So, if your grandma’s got old photos collecting dust in the attic, consider this your sign to dig them out—High Steel would love to give them a new home.
Their connection to MasonEDC came during one of the toughest times for small businesses—COVID. With help from EDC staff like Karin, they navigated grants, permitting, and stayed informed when uncertainty was the norm. “It’s not what you don’t know—it’s what you don’t know you don’t know,” Tom said. From navigating red tape to knowing what resources are out there, High Steel sees the EDC as a vital ally in helping small businesses thrive in rural communities.
Whether you're sipping a citrusy Dogs and Frisbees Pale Ale, catching live music, or just soaking in the atmosphere, High Steel Beer Co. is more than worth the stop—it’s a proud reflection of all things Mason County.
Visit High Steel Beer Co.
Location: 233 S 1st St, Shelton, WA 98584
Hours:
Monday-Thursday 3pm-8pm
Friday-Sunday Noon-9pm
Events:
Open Mic Night – Every other Wednesday, 6–8 PM
Line Dancing Lessons – Every other Wednesday, 6–8 PM
Monthly Trivia Night hosted by Shelton Timberland Library
Live Music, Pop-ups, and Community Nights – Follow them on Facebook or check the events page for updates
Learn more at www.highsteelbeerco.com
