BY ISAIAH FRIZZELL
Sun Valley Brewery
In the heart of Hailey there’s a restaurant-bar that has become a home away from home for locals and visitors alike. The Sun Valley Brewery is a place where great food meets even greater company, all thanks to the welcoming spirit and hard work of Sean Flynn, the owner and face of the operation for over two decades.
“I’ve been here for 23 years,” Flynn says, recalling the day he and his wife took over the business. “Ever since we arrived, we’ve been working here.” What began as a family venture has grown into a community cornerstone, where familiar faces fill the seats every night.
A Legacy of Flavor
The foundation of Sun Valley Brewery’s success lies in its menu, originally crafted by Derek Gallegos—Flynn’s brother-in-law and the creative genius behind the restaurant’s early years. “Derek started the restaurant side back in ’93,” Flynn shares. “We’ve consulted him many times on menu changes, but his original ideas are still at the heart of what we do.”
Customer favorites like the bratwurst plate, winter pot pies, Mediterranean salad, and gyros with homemade tzatziki have become legends in their own right. Flynn chuckles, “People would riot if we ever took some of these off the menu.”
A Family Affair
Flynn’s Sun Vallley Brewery is more than a restaurant—it’s a family operation through and through. Flynn, his wife, her sister, and even their kids have all played a role in its success. “Right now, my son Ronan works here,” Flynn says with pride. “Over the years, we’ve had nephews, cousins, and even local kids come in and help out. It’s all about family and community.”
This hands-on, familial approach is what makes the Brewery so special. “When people walk in, they see someone they know,” Flynn says. “That’s the magic.”
A Gathering Place for All
Flynn’s space is not just a spot for a good meal—it’s a hub for celebration and creativity. Whether it’s hosting a birthday party for 20 or welcoming live music acts, the tavern is always buzzing with energy. “We used to do a lot of live music,” Flynn says. “We still have the stage lights ready to go. If someone wanted to bring a harp in on a Thursday, we’d make it happen.”
The welcoming atmosphere extends to every event, every gathering, and every interaction. Flynn’s philosophy is simple: “We’re here for whatever people need.”
Balancing Business and Passion
Running a restaurant is demanding, but Flynn still finds time for his personal interests. A passionate mountain biker, he’s crafted his own custom carbon-fiber bike and often hits local trails like Croy Canyon and Colorado Gulch. “It’s my way to recharge,” he says. “I don’t have a lot of time, but I make the most of it.”
Why Flynn’s Tavern Stands Out
The secret to the Sun Valley Brewery isn’t just the food or the cozy atmosphere—it’s Flynn himself. “I’m here five nights a week, from 5 p.m. to close,” he says. “People know they’ll see me when they come in.” This personal touch has made Flynn a pillar of the community and an integral part of the tavern’s charm.
For 23 years, the Sun Valley Brewery has been more than a restaurant—it’s been a place where memories are made, traditions are upheld, and everyone feels like family. Whether it’s for a quick bite, a lively party, or just a chat with Flynn, it’s a spot where everyone feels at home.
