Rough Draft Brewing Company

Not the experience I was hoping for based upon the Google Reviews (usually an accurate tool and resource). I understand these are tough times with the pandemic, and they were incredibly accommodating by bringing a new table outside for me, but the food and beer were underwhelming. And that’s what makes or breaks breweries, right? For the food, it seemed like the menu was rushed just to allow beer to be served (due to CA regulations), because the sandwich was small and mediocre for what they charge. Not to mention the tiny pickle and lazy bag of Kettle chips. Seemingly minor details but it fits the trend. The “session” IPA was decent but standard homebrew fare. One visit was enough.

Rustic brewpub in an industrial park on the north side of San Diego. Wide open space with very high ceilings makes the place feel massive. Z-shaped bar seats about 16 with about a dozen assorted tables partitioned off the brew house and a small patio area out front. 16 well varied beers on tap, I had the Hazy Weekend and the Hop Therapy, both were ok. I also had a pull pork sandwich which was good. Friendly bartenders, and pleasant atmosphere.

 

 

 

 

Vibe - Nice place. Nothing fancy. Located in a generic industrial park (very common in San Diego), the bar shares space with the brewing equipment. The look is stark/industrial. Very simple. Very honest.

Quality - Very good beer. I noticed that the pint glasses in front of the patrons all had a tremendous amount of lacing (a good sign).

Service - My bar tender, Shannon, was helpful, friendly and knowledgable.

Selection - Good selection (homegrown only). Cask ale on Thursday. No food other than the free popcorn.

Overall - I appreciate these smaller breweries. Very similar, in look and feel, to Helm's Brewing Company across town.

 

 

 

 

 

Great brewery! Actual brewing process is visible to the tasting room which adds to the brewery experience. Great décor, not too over-the-top, clean, and parking easy.

 

Came in here for a couple of tasters. Didn't bring cash, and after the bartender, Melissa, poured me the tasters she said that they have $8 minimum on credit card charges(!). She refused to accommodate and insisted that I buy a bottle or use their ATM with a $2 charge. Most breweries I go to don't have this limitation. She eventually reluctantly accepted my card, but my experience was spoiled. A customer that overheard our conversation barged in and started arguing with me. I can't say that I'll never come to this brewery again or buy their beer - one bad bartender does not represent an entire business - but it will be a long time before I return.