I'll be out in SB next month and will be wanting to stock up on some west coast beers. Any recommendations for craft beer bottle shops? Whole Foods? Bevmo? I'm just googling places right now and not having much luck...
Whole Foods. I have not been to the Keg and Bottle in Isla Vista recently, but apparently its selection has increased in quality, but not to its apex 7 or 8 years ago. San Roque and Mesa Liquors in the city might be worth a look for some long-shot scores. I avoid them due to their (past, perhaps it has improved) habit of unclear pricing and willingness to let expired beers sit on their shelves. Definitely hit up the in-store bar at Whole Foods while you are there. Fantastic taplist. And if you plan to drink any beer here in addition to what you take back, Hollister is excellent, and Firestone's Barrelworks (40 miles north) is a must.
I was there last month for a day, while on my honeymoon. I will second Whole Foods. Had a pretty decent selection. I will also throw out, The Bottle Shop. I will preface that some of the beers and bourbons are over priced (especially the bourbon), but the selection is pretty great. Also, if you enjoy bourbon, the bourbon selection is off the charts, I legit had to go in twice to see everything. Beer wise, they also have a stellar selection. If you're into food I reccommend going to The Lark (get a reservation on Open Table beforehand), my wife and I had one of the best meals of our trip at that place. Great food and ambiance. Cheers!
Everything mentioned above, plus San Roque has some good ones. Talevi's wine in Goleta has okay selection but like 5 or 6 cases of 2014 Bigfoot for some reason. I heard that lazy acres has a good selection too. Eureka burgers has delicious food and a great tap list.
