I know that this is common knowledge around here, but my god, this place is just too expensive. Every single time I am there (which is pretty often because I have a relative who begs me to go there every time I see her) I can't help but think about how awesome the place is, but then I pay my bill and tell myself that I won't ever go back because I have a really hard time allowing myself to get ripped off. I paid $12 (after 10% tax and a $1 tip) for a plastic cup full of Grapefruit Sculpin this afternoon. After that, I decided to take a browse around the market just for shits and giggles and couldn't resist taking a picture when I saw this: $22.99 for a six pack of Grunion? $19.99 for Sculpin? These beers are already too expensive for me at $14.99 at Total Wine, but somehow this place marks them up even more? WTF? Does anyone know why the hell this place charges so much? Is it simply because they can? Do they need to pay for the nice outdoor area and subsidize the rest of the market? Are people in that neighborhood just so rich/clueless that they just say fuck it, let's make some money? Sorry for the rant, just trying to see if there is something I am missing about this place.
I agree that often their prices on some items are mystifyingly high, so I don't buy them. I have noticed some prices coming down on various items recently, which is always a plus. In addition, while sometimes they change a few dollars more than another place, they may be more convenient. I'll often pay a couple bucks more to avoid driving around town to find a slightly cheaper bottle or 6-pack. For common items, you can always check across the street at Lost Dog, which almost always has lower prices.
It's because they can, they have a big community within walking distance their patio is good for families, and the general sense when I talk to people who go is, "yeah, they are expenses but...." So as long as their core customers still go they won't change their pricing. I did hear that Sehkraft or how ever you spell it, was more reasonably priced.
I just tried out Sehkraft yesterday. The food was horrible and current tap last is sub-par and boring. Apparently they are revamping their menu in January and also they will start having their own beer available then. I'm planning on avoiding that place until those two things happen, but its worth checking back in January. It's tough to open up a new place so I'm sure there are some growing pains.
You aren't missing anything. It's a combination of everything you mentioned above, but mainly because they can. The local custies really keep that place going. Not everyone is super nerdy about beer like we are, and are content with the places they are familiar with. Add in the fact that people in this area have absurd amounts of disposable income and you have yourself a nice little opportunity to price gouge. Their location benefits them tremendously.
