Casey’s Corner Market—the once-vital element that sustained Cornville for decades—became the vibrant, colorful Brewha: Social Eatery and Market just over three years ago. More than a market and restaurant, co-owners Danny Chavez and Shelly and Daniel Altman created Brewha as a testament to family, tradition, and the power of community. The business’s name is an intentional play on the Spanish word bruja, meaning witch. “We’re putting local ingredients together into a pot and stirring it together to make a little magic,” explains Shelly. Walking in the door, you immediately feel its powerful charm. The interior is a feast for the eyes with murals and cottage-in-the-woods-inspired decor. You’re greeted with a smile and invited to relax with a handcrafted cocktail, a locally roasted coffee, or a homemade lemonade from the market. Within moments, you leave the static of the outside world behind.
BUILDING THE DREAM
Hospitality runs in the owners’ blood. Shelly spent her formative years in the kitchen of her aunt’s longstanding restaurant in Cottonwood. Danny immersed himself in music and mixology while working at Live Nation, House of Blues, and Disney. Covid shutdowns ultimately led to Danny’s relocation to Arizona to live with Shelly, his cousin. That’s when the trio conjured a plan to breathe new life into the long-abandoned Casey’s Corner. In their renovations, it was important to keep the roots of the historic market while transforming it into something that would serve as the centerpiece for both the community and visitors to nearby wineries. They did all the work themselves, imbuing their love of family and food into every detail.
FOOD FOR FAMILY
Not your typical “burgers and fries” joint, Brewha’s menu is deeply rooted in family tradition and highlights their New Mexican heritage. “It’s all our grandmother’s flavors with a modern twist,” says Danny. Their ingredients, from the eggs and tortillas to the microgreens and herbs used in their cocktails, are sourced from over 30 businesses, farms, and ranches in the Verde Valley and Arizona. Their Hatch chili hand pies are inspired by a family recipe passed down through generations. The chicken birria tacos are a labor of love that takes 12 hours from start to finish. Nana’s Breakfast—potatoes, eggs, beef chorizo, and a flour tortilla—is inspired by the meal their grandmother made them as children. You won’t find pork on the menu—a decision made in part because Daniel Altman is Jewish and because Shelly has pet pigs. All dishes are served in shareable portions to encourage social and family bonding. This is a place where people feel comfortable sitting and talking away the afternoon.
FILLING A NEED AND CREATING A COMMUNITY
“Cornville didn’t have a place where you could go get a cup of coffee or a quick bite,” says Danny. Brewha also provides a “one-stop shop,” offering not only a restaurant but also a market stocked with local produce, eggs, preserves, pickles, pasta, and other specialty items, so residents don’t have to make the 40-minute round-trip drive to Cottonwood. “We call it a social eatery for a reason,” says Shelly. “It doesn’t matter who you are; everyone is welcome at the table.” The clientele spans all ages, demographics, and backgrounds—whether devoted locals or some of the 3 million visitors to the area each year. The establishment’s organic growth has led to an incredible support system. Patrons regularly step up to help, whether it’s running for ice on a busy evening or gifting handmade decor. In a world that often feels disconnected, Brewha reminds us of the power of family, community, and local pride. A place where every face is a friend, every meal tells a story, and every ingredient is a celebration of the best the area has to offer.
Brewha Social Eatery and Market is located at 1160 S Page Springs Rd in Cornville
Visit brewhaaz.com to learn more.
