Orange Snail founders credit community support and commitment to quality for 10-year milestone

Damion Orsi and Kevin Greer were raising glasses in New York City when the idea for what would become Orange Snail Brewers was first born.

The two met at a mutual friend’s bachelor party and quickly bonded over their shared passion for home brewing—and the surprising coincidence that they were both soon moving to Milton.

Fast forward to spring 2025, and the pair are celebrating 10 years of running their local craft brewery, Orange Snail.

With a strong local following, a presence on LCBO shelves, and their signature “Blissfully Ignorant Ales” served in restaurants and at community events across the region, Orange Snail has become a staple in Milton’s craft beer scene.

They’ve recently expanded into a larger location at the corner of Steeles Avenue and Bronte Street, earned the title of Milton Chamber’s Small Business of the Year, and picked up multiple industry awards along the way.

We caught up with Kevin and Damion to reflect on a decade of brewing, growth, and community.

Congratulations on Orange Snail’s 10th anniversary! What stands out most when you look back?
Thanks, Steve. These 10 years have flown by. Like most small businesses, the COVID years were tough, but we made it through with the incredible support of our loyal customers. It’s been a wild ride—but a fun one.

You launched just as the craft beer movement was gaining momentum. Did you always believe you’d make a mark in the industry?
We believed in our beer. Early on, we won a couple of Ontario Brewing Awards, and that gave us the confidence to know we could hold our own against the best.

The name ‘Orange Snail’ is unique—what’s the story behind it?
It actually comes from a bit of beer history. In the UK, a famous tort law case involved a woman who fell ill after finding an orange snail in her ginger beer. Don’t worry—there are no snails in our beer!

You often credit the community for your success. Can you elaborate on that?
Absolutely. As a small, local brewery, we wouldn’t be here without the support of our community. That’s why we try to give back as much as we can to local charities and community groups.

Beyond revenue, what’s been your biggest measure of success?
Honestly, it’s seeing how many people in Milton drink our beer. When we walk into local bars and restaurants and see our beer on tap, that’s the best feeling.

Do craft beer fans show as much curiosity about the brewing process as wine lovers do with winemaking?
Definitely. Most people don’t realize how much work goes into a single pint, and we love sharing that with them. That’s why we keep our back area open to the public—so people can see the process for themselves.

You’ve attended your fair share of craft beer competitions. Was there ever an ingredient you thought would never work—but surprised you?
Yes—crushed candy canes! We used them in our Christmas beer, Apocalyptic Elf, more than eight years ago. It sounded odd at first, but it turned out great. We still make it the same way today because it’s such a hit.