BREWER – Call after call for space to hold large gatherings persuaded Muddy Rudder owners to finish renovating the restaurant’s second floor, and could mean at least 25 new jobs. The restaurant opened last year.

The space, which can accommodate groups from 40 to 120 people, has large windows that overlook the Penobscot River and will be open to the public after May 12.

“What really showed us the need was how many opportunities we were turning away,” General Manager Tom Workman said Wednesday.

“The tremendous success of the facility since they opened and the market demand for meeting, training and social event venues have now convinced the owners, Maine Course Hospitality, to substantially increase the size of the restaurant,” Economic Development Director Drew Sachs said in a press release.

There were plans to renovate the second floor in the future, but the owners pushed the plan into action. The renovated area is handicap accessible and includes an elevator and upstairs bathrooms.

The expansion also means more jobs.

“Right now we have 50 people on staff,” Workman said. “I think as we expand this business upstairs, it will easily need 25 to 40 additional staff.”

The number will grow depending on seasonal needs. Workman said he hopes to create a stable working environment for all employees.

“The unique thing about this area is that it can be used for many things from plated meals to buffets to meetings to seminars,” Workman said. “We can create the space based on need to make any event special.”

The upstairs is equipped with audio-visual equipment for presentations, a full bar and the restaurant also has a portable dance floor.

Being a part of Brewer’s waterfront, also known as Penobscot Landing, has played a big part in the restaurant’s success over the last year, the manager added.

“I think we all agree the waterfront is a key to the success of the entire area,” said Workman.

“Muddy Rudder … has served a niche for this area,” Sachs said on Wednesday. “With the quality of food and service they’ve created a lot of the momentum. The expansion itself is an excellent example of the Muddy Rudder creating momentum.”