Santa Monica Brew Works: Crafting Coastal California Beer
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles’s Westside, Santa Monica Brew Works stands as a true pioneer, being Santa Monica's first and only local and independent craft brewery. Since its establishment in 2014, this delightful gem has not only been brewing exceptional California-inspired beers but has also cultivated a unique community hub, embodying the laid-back, "beach brewed" lifestyle that defines this iconic coastal city. It's more than just a brewery; it's a testament to passion, quality, and local pride.
For beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, Santa Monica Brew Works offers an unparalleled experience. From its welcoming tasting room and expansive beer garden to its innovative culinary partnership with Emmy Squared Pizza, every aspect is designed to provide a memorable and authentic taste of Santa Monica. This article delves into what makes Santa Monica Brew Works a must-visit destination, exploring its history, its commitment to quality, its diverse beer offerings, and its integral role within the local community.
Table of Contents
- The Genesis of Santa Monica Brew Works: A Vision Realized
- The Tasting Room & Beer Garden Experience at Santa Monica Brew Works
- Emmy Squared Pizza: A Perfect Culinary Pairing
- A Taste of California: Santa Monica Brew Works' Signature Brews
- Head in the Clouds: An Imperial IPA Marvel
- Inclined IPA & 310 Blonde Ale: Everyday Favorites
- Wit: A Refreshing Classic
- Santa Monica Brew Works: A Cherished Community Hub
- Prime Location & Unmatched Accessibility
- Beyond the Brewery: Santa Monica Brew Works at LAX
- Why Santa Monica Brew Works Stands Out
- Planning Your Visit to Santa Monica Brew Works
The Genesis of Santa Monica Brew Works: A Vision Realized
Established in 2014, Santa Monica Brew Works proudly holds the distinction of being the first and only locally owned and operated craft production brewery on LA's Westside. This wasn't just another business venture; it was a passion project born from a desire to bring authentic, high-quality craft beer to a community that had long awaited its own local brewery. The founders envisioned a place where the spirit of Santa Monica – its vibrant energy, its connection to the ocean, and its relaxed lifestyle – could be encapsulated in every pint. From day one, Santa Monica Brew Works committed itself to exacting standards, a principle that resonates deeply with the values of independent brewers worldwide. Their approach is characterized by a blend of creativity and inclusivity, ensuring that their brewing process is not only innovative but also welcoming to all palates. This dedication to quality and community has allowed them to carve out a unique niche, becoming a beloved institution in a relatively short period. The brewery's journey since 2014 has been one of continuous growth, marked by a steadfast commitment to their foundational principles: brewing exceptional California-inspired beers and fostering a genuine connection with their patrons and the city of Santa Monica itself.The Tasting Room & Beer Garden Experience at Santa Monica Brew Works
Stepping into Santa Monica Brew Works at 1920 Colorado Ave, Suite C, Santa Monica, California, is like discovering a delightful gem. The venue immediately impresses with its vibrant energy and a casual atmosphere that makes it perfect for groups and families alike. It's a place where laughter flows as freely as the beer, creating an inviting environment for both seasoned craft beer aficionados and those new to the scene. The layout is thoughtfully designed, offering various spaces to relax and enjoy. The main tasting room provides an intimate setting to sample the latest brews, while the expansive beer garden offers a quintessential California outdoor dining experience. The beer garden, in particular, is a highlight, especially during the long summer days when the weather is perfect for unwinding outdoors. It’s a space that encourages lingering, whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a meal, or simply soaking in the Santa Monica sun. This focus on creating a comfortable and enjoyable environment is a cornerstone of the Santa Monica Brew Works philosophy, making it a true local neighborhood hang where patrons feel right at home. The combination of great beer, delicious food, and a relaxed setting ensures that every visit is a pleasant escape from the everyday hustle.Emmy Squared Pizza: A Perfect Culinary Pairing
A significant enhancement to the Santa Monica Brew Works experience came in August 2022 with the opening of Emmy Squared Pizza's first West Coast location right within the brewery. This partnership brought together two powerhouses, combining exceptional craft beer with critically acclaimed Detroit-style pizza. Emmy Squared Pizza, praised by New York reviewers as “must try” and “a welcome addition” to Manhattan’s vast pizza scene, offers a menu that perfectly complements the diverse beer selection. The addition of Emmy Squared means visitors can enjoy delicious food and brews seamlessly. Whether you're craving their signature square-shaped pizzas with crispy crusts, unique toppings, or their renowned burgers, the culinary offerings elevate the entire experience. This collaboration not only provides convenience but also enhances the overall appeal of Santa Monica Brew Works as a destination for both food and drink, solidifying its reputation as a complete dining and entertainment venue. The synergy between the brewery's "beach brewed" lifestyle and Emmy Squared's innovative cuisine creates a truly unique and satisfying experience.A Taste of California: Santa Monica Brew Works' Signature Brews
At the core of Santa Monica Brew Works' identity is its commitment to brewing California-inspired beers for those who live the “beach brewed” lifestyle. Their portfolio reflects the diverse tastes and preferences of the West Coast, offering a range of styles that are both innovative and approachable. As a production brewery and tasting room, they honor great beer and the city of Santa Monica by consistently delivering high-quality, flavorful brews. Each beer tells a story, often drawing inspiration from the local environment, the ocean, and the relaxed Californian way of life. The brewery's dedication to quality is evident in the consistent positive ratings and reviews their beers receive. They offer single cans, packs, and cases, ensuring that patrons can enjoy their favorite brews at the brewery or take them home (with a strict 21+ purchase policy). This accessibility, combined with the sheer variety, makes Santa Monica Brew Works a destination for beer lovers seeking authentic Californian flavors. Let's explore some of their notable offerings.Head in the Clouds: An Imperial IPA Marvel
One of Santa Monica Brew Works' standout creations is "Head in the Clouds," an Imperial IPA style beer that has garnered significant acclaim. With an impressive rating of 89 based on 24 ratings and reviews, it speaks volumes about its quality and popularity among beer enthusiasts. Imperial IPAs are known for their higher alcohol content and intense hop character, and "Head in the Clouds" delivers on both fronts, offering a rich, complex flavor profile that is both bold and balanced. This beer embodies the adventurous spirit of craft brewing, pushing boundaries while maintaining drinkability. Its popularity suggests a successful execution of a challenging style, appealing to those who appreciate a robust and aromatic IPA. For many, "Head in the Clouds" has become a flagship beer, representing the innovative spirit of Santa Monica Brew Works and its ability to craft exceptional, highly-rated brews.Inclined IPA & 310 Blonde Ale: Everyday Favorites
Beyond the Imperial IPAs, Santa Monica Brew Works offers a range of beers that cater to a broader audience, including the "Inclined IPA" and the "310 Blonde Ale." "Inclined IPA" is an American IPA style beer, a staple in the craft beer world, known for its balanced hop bitterness and aromatic profile. It holds a respectable rating of 86 with 30 ratings and reviews, indicating its consistent quality and appeal as a go-to IPA for many. It's a testament to the brewery's ability to produce a solid, reliable IPA that satisfies the cravings of hop lovers without being overly aggressive. The "310 Blonde Ale," on the other hand, offers a lighter, more approachable option. As an American Blonde Ale style beer, it is typically crisp, clean, and easy-drinking, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a refreshing beer, especially in the warm California climate. With a rating of 83 based on 25 ratings and reviews, it proves to be a popular choice for its straightforward yet satisfying character. These two beers highlight the brewery's versatility, offering something for every palate, from hop-forward to smooth and mellow.Wit: A Refreshing Classic
Adding to their diverse portfolio, Santa Monica Brew Works also brews "Wit," a classic Witbier style beer. Witbiers, originating from Belgium, are renowned for their hazy appearance, light body, and refreshing character, often brewed with wheat, orange peel, and coriander. Santa Monica Brew Works' "Wit" has earned a rating of 84 with 31 ratings and reviews, showcasing its appeal as a well-executed example of the style. This beer provides a refreshing contrast to the hop-centric IPAs, offering a zesty and subtly spiced experience that is particularly enjoyable on a sunny day. Its popularity underscores the brewery's commitment to offering a comprehensive range of beer styles, ensuring that there's always something new or familiar to discover. The "Wit" is a perfect representation of their "California inspired beers," light and bright, just like the Santa Monica sunshine.Santa Monica Brew Works: A Cherished Community Hub
Beyond its excellent beers and delicious food, Santa Monica Brew Works has firmly established itself as a local, neighborhood hang. It's a place where community truly thrives, evidenced by its significant social presence with 3,376 likes, 16 talking about this, and an impressive 8,138 check-ins, indicating a strong, engaged patron base. Many patrons live in the area and frequent the brewery, looking for a casual place to unwind after a long day or to gather with friends and family. The brewery's welcoming atmosphere and its commitment to being a family-friendly venue make it a cornerstone of local social life. It's a great option during summer when the days are long and the weather is perfect, offering outdoor dining that perfectly captures the essence of coastal California living. Santa Monica Brew Works is not just a business; it's an integral part of the Santa Monica fabric, fostering connections and creating lasting memories for its diverse clientele. Its role as a gathering place underscores its trustworthiness and deep roots within the community it serves.Prime Location & Unmatched Accessibility
The strategic location of Santa Monica Brew Works further enhances its appeal and accessibility. Situated at 19th and Colorado, or more precisely at 1920 Colorado Ave, Suite C, Santa Monica, CA 90404, the brewery is conveniently located in the heart of Santa Monica, near the intersection of Colorado and 20th. This central position makes it easily reachable for both locals and visitors exploring the city. One of the significant advantages for patrons is the availability of free parking, a rare commodity in bustling Santa Monica. This thoughtful amenity removes a common barrier to entry, making it even easier for guests to visit and enjoy their experience. In addition to its physical location, Santa Monica Brew Works also offers delivery, providing another layer of convenience for those who prefer to enjoy their California-inspired beers from the comfort of their homes. This commitment to accessibility reflects their dedication to serving the community effectively and efficiently.Beyond the Brewery: Santa Monica Brew Works at LAX
Demonstrating their growing reach and commitment to the "beach brewed" lifestyle, Santa Monica Brew Works has expanded its presence beyond its primary location to an unexpected, yet highly strategic, venue: the LAX Tom Bradley International Terminal. This expansion allows them to share their California-inspired beers and delicious food with a global audience, offering a taste of Santa Monica to travelers passing through one of the world's busiest airports. Having a presence at LAX means that weary travelers can join them anytime of the day for delicious food and brews, experiencing a slice of local Los Angeles culture before or after their flights. This move not only broadens their brand recognition but also serves as a testament to their operational capabilities and the widespread appeal of their products. It highlights their expertise in scaling their unique offering while maintaining the quality and ethos that define Santa Monica Brew Works.Why Santa Monica Brew Works Stands Out
Santa Monica Brew Works isn't just another brewery; it's a landmark. Its status as Santa Monica's first and only local and independent craft brewery, established in 2014, immediately sets it apart. This pioneering spirit is coupled with a steadfast commitment to quality, evidenced by their "exacting standards" and dedication to representing the values of independent brewers through creativity and inclusivity. They are not just brewing beer; they are crafting an experience that resonates with the relaxed yet vibrant energy of Santa Monica. The brewery's unique blend of offerings – from its diverse range of California-inspired beers, each with its own distinct character and positive ratings, to its strategic partnership with Emmy Squared Pizza – creates a comprehensive destination. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere, coupled with amenities like free parking and outdoor dining, ensures a welcoming environment for everyone. Furthermore, their expansion to LAX showcases their ambition and the broad appeal of their "beach brewed" lifestyle. It's this holistic approach, combining exceptional product with an authentic community focus, that truly makes Santa Monica Brew Works an authoritative and trustworthy establishment in the craft beer landscape.Planning Your Visit to Santa Monica Brew Works
If you're in Santa Monica, a visit to Santa Monica Brew Works is an absolute must. Whether you're a local looking for your regular neighborhood hang or a visitor eager to experience authentic West Coast craft beer, this vibrant venue has something for everyone. You can find them conveniently located at 1920 Colorado Ave, Suite C, Santa Monica, CA 90404, with free parking available to make your visit hassle-free. To get the most out of your experience, consider checking out their menu online for single cans, packs, and cases (remember, you must be 21 to purchase alcohol). You can also find photos and location information, or even book a table, though walk-ins are always welcome in their casual atmosphere. The partnership with Emmy Squared Pizza means you can enjoy a full meal alongside your brews, making it a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or just a casual gathering. For any inquiries, you can reach them at 310.828.7629 or via email at askemily@emmysquaredpizza.com for pizza-related questions. Come visit Santa Monica Brew Works in the heart of Santa Monica at Colorado/20th and discover your new favorite "beach brewed" beer!In summary, Santa Monica Brew Works is far more than just a place to grab a beer; it's a cornerstone of the Santa Monica community, a testament to independent brewing, and a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike. From its humble beginnings in 2014 as the first and only craft brewery on LA's Westside, it has grown into a beloved destination, consistently delivering California-inspired beers crafted with exacting standards, creativity, and inclusivity. The welcoming tasting room, the expansive beer garden, and the delightful addition of Emmy Squared Pizza create an unparalleled experience, making it a perfect spot for groups, families, and anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the "beach brewed" lifestyle. We encourage you to visit their tasting room, explore their diverse beer selection, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere that only Santa Monica Brew Works can offer. Share your favorite Santa Monica Brew Works memory in the comments below, or better yet, plan your visit today and discover why this local gem continues to be a favorite among so many!

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