Our Story

From the depths of a career as a raft guide and ski instructor, our owner, David Axelrod (aka Ax), found his post river calling in the art and business of brewing beer. Nothing strikes Ax quite like the incredible ability beer has to bring a community together, and its that draw that he works tirelessly to strengthen, and providing a place for a community to get together is just the beginning. Ax has an MBA in sustainability, sits on the board of the High Country Conservation Center here in Frisco, and seeks to spread his love and passion for sustainability, in hopes to preserve the natural environment we all call home for generations to come.

What did the drummer call his daughters? Anna 1. Anna 2. Our General Manager, The king of Dad Jokes himself, Kurt Zolbe, is the foundation of our operation here at Highside, and we all know we’d never have come close to making it as far as we have with out him.

Thomas, our latest and greatest addition to Highside Brewing! With many years of being the head brewer for multiple well known Colorado breweries, (plus some time brewing in Norway) we are so excited to have him on our team. You’re going to love all the craft brews he comes out with!

Jon’s been locked into the restaurant biz since he was 18, and now at 26, he’s just stoked to still get paid for doing something he loves. Growing up in Chicago and cutting his teeth under a Chef gunning for his Michelin Stars, Jon got to see firsthand what it takes to run a tight ship, but also not suck the fun out of the job. 

Jon quit drinking in 2014, refocusing his life and dedicating as much of his time and energy into building a career in the restaurant business as possible. Getting promoted to Sous Chef at 22 was a great start, but he hasn’t taken his foot off the pedal since. All in all, we’re beyond happy to have him, and love the energy he brings day in, and day out.