Image courtesy of Chris Lexow / CC BY-SA 2.0

One of Harvard Square’s most notable retail vacancies will soon be home to Westminster-based Wachusett Brewing Co.

Fresh off the recent news of its new Worcester location, Wachusett will add its third brewing and tap room facility in the space once occupied by brewpub pioneer John Harvard’s Brewery & Alehouse. The Wachusett facility is expected to open this fall. The tap room will have a 15-barrel brewhouse for small-batch production, 16 rotating beers on tap, live entertainment and a full kitchen focused on flatbreads.

“We are thrilled to be moving in to Cambridge,” Wachusett President Christian McMahan said in a statement. “As the Wachusett brand continues to grow, we have been looking for new and interesting ways to reach the next generation of craft beer drinkers and believe this location is ideal for us as we continue to evolve the brand in to the future.”

The move fills a key anchor in Harvard Square, which is facing increasing vacancies and the departure of several longtime retailers and restaurants as rents have risen.

“We are delighted Wachusett Brewing is coming to the Square. Their pioneering spirit is fresh, fun and unique,” Denise Jillson, executive director of the Harvard Square Business Association, said in a statement. “We eagerly anticipate their opening and look forward to partnering with them in our many festivals and community-wide events.”