In this continuing, four-part series attempting to predict the most exciting upcoming brewery projects in San Diego County, I’m offering my most educated guesses as to what businesses figure to be of higher-quality once open, and looking at my track record in assessing the futures of such businesses over the past three-plus years. Last week, I tackled North County, followed by the Western portions of SD. Today is all about San Diego’s more southerly expanses.
North Park Beer Co., North Park: This operation has been on the list for the entire time I’ve been tracking this sort of thing, but finally…finally…it looks to be very close to actually opening. The former MMA gym this long-anticipated brewery and tasting room calls home is almost completely converted, much to the elation of the denizens of its namesake community. Once open, look for the coveted Hop Fu IPA and, eventually, some barrel-aged treats from the cellar.
Thr3e Punk Ales Brewing Company, Chula Vista: This punk-rock themed business has been producing beers through a unique rotating-proprietorship agreement with Santee’s Butchers Brewing Company, but recently took over a two-story (three if you count the basement) spot right on Chula Vista’s main drag. It’ll be the municipality’s first downtown brewery and with as much support as they’re providing these punks, the place should turn out quite nice.
Brewery Igniter, North Park: Developer H.G. Fenton built its initial “Brewery Igniter” complex (a pair of ready-to-use brewery/tasting room suites) in Miramar, the success of which has them constructing a trio of similar but larger spots on El Cajon Boulevard. Only one tenant is official so far, Pariah Brewing Company, but this is a fiscally sound model that should appeal to numerous aspiring brewery owners, offering reason for optimism.
Past Promising Projects: North
2013: Ballast Point Tasting Room & Kitchen (Little Italy; Grade—A; at the time, the most beers of any of the former craft-brewery’s venues), Mike Hess Brewing Company – North Park (North Park; Grade—B; a uniquely appealing tasting room with views of the brewery below), Birifficio Calabria (North Park; Grade: N/A; Caffe Calabria’s nano never came to fruition)
2014: South Park Brewing Company (South Park; Grade—A; straightforward, award-winning beer out of the gate); Half Door Brewing Company (East Village; Grade—B; started slow, but a great addition to the Petco Park area)
2015: ChuckAlek Independent Brewers – North Park (North Park; Grade: N/A; opens tomorrow!)