Fort Worth Bar Owner Received Belgian Brewing Honor

Keith Schlabs was inducted into the Knighthood of the Brewers' Paddle in Brussels for his commitment to Belgian beer.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Beer

Fort Worth Bar Owner Received Belgian Brewing Honor

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On September 5, 2026, Fort Worth resident and Flying Saucer co-owner Keith Schlabs was inducted into the prestigious Knighthood of the Brewers' Paddle. The ceremony in Brussels recognized Schlabs for his 32-year dedication to promoting Belgian brewing traditions.

Why it matters

The honor acknowledges Schlabs' long-term impact on the beer industry, highlighting his role in fostering appreciation for Belgian brewing culture within the United States. His induction underscores the international reach of local operators who champion specific historical brewing techniques.

Schlabs operates 11 Flying Saucer locations today, having started the brand in 1995. This honor comes as the Texas market has expanded to include more than 400 breweries.

The players

Keith Schlabs

He is a long-time beer industry professional and the co-owner of the Flying Saucer bar chain.

Belgian Brewers Guild

This organization is responsible for upholding the traditions and quality standards of Belgian brewing.

The details

During the ceremony in Brussels' Grand-Place, Schlabs received a medallion and certificate after being ceremonially tapped with the traditional Brewers' Paddle. The event, organized by the Belgian Brewers Guild, celebrated his career-long contribution to the global distribution and appreciation of Belgian styles.

The first Flying Saucer location opened in 1995.
The induction ceremony took place on September 5, 2026.

Culture Shift

The Knighthood of the Brewers' Paddle preserves centuries-old Belgian guild traditions, contrasting with the rapid expansion of modern Texas craft breweries. This honor represents a bridge between local American hospitality and the long-established European legacy of brewing masters.

Residents may see an increased emphasis on Belgian-style offerings across the 11 Flying Saucer locations operated by the organization. The recognition serves as a marker of the local brand's commitment to quality as the Fort Worth beer scene continues to grow.

The takeaway

This recognition highlights how individual operators can maintain deep ties to international culinary traditions while running a large-scale commercial business. Enthusiasts can support these efforts by exploring established Belgian imports at local venues known for their historical curation.