Bellevue is well-known for its great schools, world-class companies, and delightful parks. But one cultural element is missing – a homegrown brewery.

In about two months that will change. After years of challenges and delays, Bellevue Brewing Company will open in late August. It will be Bellevue’s first locally-owned and operated facility.

John Robertson, who grew up in Bellevue, sees the brewery as a way to raise the cultural appeal of Bellevue by creating a signature gathering place, suitable for Bellevue’s diverse populace.

“We wanted to build a social hub, too,” said Scott Hansen, cofounder of the brewery. “We wanted to change the nature of how the city was perceived.”

The idea was hatched nearly three years ago as Hansen and Robertson, longtime friends, sat together at a favorite meeting spot, the Bellevue Club. They spoke about the lack of breweries in Bellevue, and the idea came to them. Robertson, a real estate agent, and Hansen, a brewery founder and owner, had the perfect combination of skills and experience.

All they needed was the money.

The pair thought they had an investor all locked up, but like many he became a casualty of the economic downturn. They had to scramble to get the money together, about $1 million in total startup costs, and it was no easy task. However, along the way they built a diverse group of investors: Amazon and Microsoft employees, the company’s insurance agent, and friends and family.

In the last few months the money finally came together, and the developers were able to target an opening date for the oft-delayed brewery.

When the doors open, Bellevue Brewing will feature four signature beers: an ESB, IPA, oatmeal stout and Scotch ale. Robertson said seasonal ales and specialty beers will become part of the rotation as well.

The brewery won’t leave patrons hungry, either. A menu focused primarily on soups, salads, sandwiches and pizza will be available at an affordable price. Two-person pizzas are expected to cost between $9 and $11.

Bellevue Brewing will open at 3 p.m. daily, with all beers costing $3. At 4 p.m., the price goes up to $4, and then prices stabilize at $5 from 5 p.m. to close.

Robertson and Hansen set out on this mission with a desire to be different. One thing that stands out, they say, is an emphasis on charitable giving. They plan to donate part of the proceeds – from a pint of beer to earnings at events – to organizations benefitting children.

“If you’re going to go out and drink a beer and have some fun, you should try to do a little bit more with it,” Robertson said. “There’s got to be a way to use the power of beer to go out and do something bigger.”

Bigger is the key word. Whether it’s in terms of giving, or the long-term vision of the brewery. Robertson said plans to expand locations throughout the Eastside could be in the works, and he and Hansen have plans to approach companies to put on and run special events.

The beer’s influence will likely expand in the coming months, as well. Upon opening, customers will be able to get pints of their favorite brews, as well as growlers to take home. Within three to four months they may begin bottling the brews. And in a year, distribution will likely begin. Once they hit the market in what Robertson calls a 35-mile “freshness ring,” distribution of the products will likely expand as well.

For Robertson and Hansen, the approach is all about the future. They never moved too fast during startup time, and they plan to make expansion and changes a measured decision.

“We wanted to make sure we had enough money to do things right the first time rather than scramble six months or a year down the road,” Hansen said.