Marin Brewing Company

 

 

I suppose there's many reasons why I've never been here but after finally visiting I can say I don't see myself hurrying back anytime soon. Brewpub feels like one of the early ones that just never updated… well, anything. Even the crowd feels like it’s the same from 20 years ago. Didn’t eat, so can’t comment on the food.

 

 

 

I recently stopped in here on a trip to Northern California. The inside hosts a brewery, bar, and restaurant and I got a definite sports bar type vibe all around. The bartender was quite nice and attentive when I stopped in. They had around 15 beers on tap, most of which they already bottle, and a few one offs. They also can sell certain bottles for on site consumption or to go. The quality of everything was good.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Definite local hot spot, but parking is a nightmare in that center. Get a table outside if you can (and whether permits), but indoor seating is OK too. Food is on the better side of pub grub.

 

MBC was one of the first brew pubs to open in the bay. The beers have been consistantly good for a loooong time. Unfortunately though, the food and service at the brewpub has taken a steep dive over the years.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This would be a very nice place - love the atmosphere and it is in a great location. I tried to order a couple of beers on the menu and they didn't have the selections I was looking for (it was a long list of beers they have and have had in the past - confusing). The food was so-so, nothing to rave about except for the price - very inexpensive. The servers were nice, but were in a rush - so when the food came out, they said here is the catsup and mustard and walked away - didn't ask what I wanted (which was hot sauce) and didn't come back for 15 minutes to see how everything was going.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visited today for lunch.

Atmosphere was good as it was a perfect day to have a seat outside in the shade.

Quality of the beer was solid.

Service was pretty solid even though there was a pretty full house outside. The server did not take time to chat until the end of round 3.

Selection was pretty good. I had the White Knuckle, cask IPA, and the San Quentin Stout. Thought they would have more available.

Food was solid. Burgers and onion rings were very spot on.

Overall value was good for the Bay area. Two burgers and 5 beers for just over $50.

This visit was last summer and looking back has an odd feel. The Giants were on and I remember thinking how they were two years removed from a World Series and that the Dodgers were in complete control of the division... but I digress.

Parking was somewhat difficult as I don't know if commuters like to stop here, but inside at least it didn't seem to be as packed. I tried a sampler and was happy with the beers I was presented, but not overly impressed. The place did have sort of a sports bar feel to it, and I was wondering if Huey Lewis and the News would be lurking around the corner somewhere. In short, a fun place to be serving good but not great beer. If you're in the area worth a stop and if I was in the area I would probably visit often.