Welcome to Firetender, where the innovative spirit of Manteo’s dining scene meets a profound respect for local history and brewing heritage. As we open our doors, we don’t just introduce a new restaurant; we reignite a legacy, honoring the path paved by Uli Bennewitz, founder of the Weeping Radish, North Carolina’s first microbrewery.
Uli Bennewitz: A Pioneer of North Carolina’s Brewing Scene
Uli Bennewitz’s contribution to North Carolina’s brewing scene is monumental. In the 1980s, he broke new ground by opening the Weeping Radish in Manteo, at a time when there were fewer than 100 microbreweries in the entire United States and none in North Carolina. His relentless efforts led to legislative changes, making it legal for microbreweries to sell their beer directly to customers. This pioneering venture, however, faced its end in 2007 when Bennewitz decided to relocate the Weeping Radish 35 miles away to Grandy in Currituck County, marking a significant moment in the state’s brewing history. Today, at Firetender, we honor and continue this rich legacy by reviving the essence and spirit of the Weeping Radish Tap Room.
A New Chapter with Timeless Brews
Our passion for craft beer is at the heart of Firetender. We proudly continue the legacy of the Weeping Radish, North Carolina’s first microbrewery, by offering a diverse range of meticulously crafted beers. Each beer is a celebration of flavor, tradition, and innovation.
Flagship Beers at Firetender
COROLLA GOLD
A true Bavarian classic, our Munich Helles Lager boasts stunning golden hues layered with a frothy white head. Pleasant bready aromas and an understated German Noble Hop character give way to the distinctive malty-sweetness that sets this style apart from the rest. A crisp, refreshing finish makes Corolla Gold perfect for any occasion.
Style: German Helles Lager
ABV: 5.1%
Aroma: Biscuity
Flavor: Malty-sweet, Crisp
BLACK RADISH
The traditional German Schwarzbier is a flawless balance between dark and light. Streaks of deep ruby pierce through a black façade, accompanied by subtle aromas alluding to dark chocolate and espresso from roasted Munich malt. Notes of caramel and toffee take center stage, but don’t be fooled! The true nature of this style is revealed in a stunning finale featuring a light, invigorating body and crisp, refreshing lager finish. Our fan favorite, Black Radish, will have you cheering for an encore.
Style: German Schwarzbier (Black Lager)
ABV: 4.6%
Aroma: Roasty, Coffee
Flavor: Caramel, Toffee, Chocolate
OBX KOLSCH
Our German-style Kolsch intertwines the soft, rounded body of an ale with the clean, dry finish of a lager to create a hybrid with unrivaled drinkability. Golden tones and brilliant clarity complement an elusive, fruity-sweet aroma and mellow hop character to bring you the official beach beer of the Outer Banks. Nothing says summer like OBX.
Style: Grman Kolsch
ABV: 4.9%
Aroma: Fruity, Grainy
Flavor: Bready, Honey, Crisp
INDIA PALE ALE
Tropical, juicy East Coast hops collide with the piney, floral hops of the West Coast in a whirlwind of flavor imparted by an expertly curated combination of hops. A mellow bitterness and moderately dry finish follow a burst of juicy, refreshing hop flavors that work in perfect unison with the sophisticated malt character. It’s the best of both worlds in one deliciously balanced IPA.
Style: India Pale Ale
ABV: 6.3%
Aroma: Citrus, Tropical, Piney
Flavor: Hoppy, Malty, Dry
Firetender: More Than a Name
Our name, Firetender, is deeply rooted in the land’s history, inspired by the Algonquian Sunrise Ceremony. This daily ritual, performed by the indigenous Algonquian tribe, involved offerings to the sun, with a crucial role played by the firetender. Our twin stone ovens pay homage to this tradition, symbolizing the fire and skill integral to their daily life and now to our culinary creations.
A Culinary and Brewing Destination in Manteo
Firetender is more than a restaurant; it’s a destination where the community of Manteo, Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head can come together. Here, we celebrate the art of brewing, the joy of eating, and the rich tapestry of our local heritage.
Conclusion: Celebrating Manteo’s Evolving Culinary Scene
Join us at Firetender, where every visit is a journey through the history of Manteo and a foray into the world of exceptional craft beer and innovative cuisine. We are a living testament to Manteo’s evolving culinary scene, honoring the past while embracing the future. Be a part of our story.
