The Ripon Planning Commission welcomed a new business to town.

Black Orchid Brewing Company will be moving to 219 W. Main St., next to Ripon Print Studio’s new home.

Commissioners paved the way to bring the award-winning home brewers to downtown, approving the conditional use permit along with the add-ons to existing warehouse space on Monday.

“The conditional use permit with this project because (Black Orchid Brewery) intends to serve beer as the primary source without food,” said Planning Director Ken Zuidervaart.

Commissioner Debra Van Essen sees the new microbrew and tap room as complimenting the nearby eateries including nearby Ede’s Taco Shop.

“I’m excited – this project will be a great addition to downtown,” she said. “It’ll compliment all the other businesses.”

The owners – included are Henry and Tyanne Penado, and head brew master Joffre Roberts – will make improvements to the outside façade and provide outdoor seating areas with wrought iron fencing as approved by the City of Ripon and as required by the Alcohol Beverage Control.

Henry Penado and Roberts are residents of Manteca. They’ve been doing home brewing for the past 10 years while bringing their craft beers to festivals throughout San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties not to mention a few local fundraisers.

They’ve long been interested in a brick-and-mortar facility, seeing downtown Ripon as an ideal location.

“We want this to be a family and pet-friendly place,” said Penado, who added that people here will often go to Lodi, Modesto or Ceres for craft beers.

Those at Black Orchid Brewing promises to use local vendors for their product, including almonds, oranges and cherries.

Penado currently works in security services and Roberts has been a chef in Pleasanton for the past 18 years.

The hours of operation for Black Orchid, once open, will be Thursdays, from noon to 9 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, noon to 10 p.m.; and Sundays, noon to 9 p.m.