Fresh new space on S.B.A, notice the hop style light fixtures.
To the delight of many eager neighbors, Ferment Drink Repeat swung open their taproom doors to a thirsty crowd yesterday. The “soft opening” was a huge milestone for the team behind the nanobrewery project, which started almost 2.5 years ago. The community came out in droves to show support for the new business on San Bruno with a steady crowd and a full house up until closing. While speaking with Shae, one of the owners, she mentioned several times how much the support of the Portola community has meant to them as they pushed through the long process of receiving approvals from the city. Their appreciation for last nights successful opening was echoed on their Facebook page this morning:
What an AMAZING soft opening last night! We could not have asked to land in a better neighborhood than the Portola! The community support has been incredible. We are open tonight from 3-10! Let’s make this second night just as great!
The new brewery space at 2636 San Bruno Ave is still coming together and will be completed by the Grand Opening celebration on Saturday June 25th (mark your calendars). Even in its current state though, the taproom is quite eye-catching with Hop inspired light fixtures, a stained wood bar and stylish bright orange metal stools. The owners designed it with the intention of creating a space for the community to come together and share a drink. There are large communal tables to gather around, outside food from San Bruno restaurants is allowed and encouraged and in true San Francisco fashion, dogs are welcome in the taproom. Future plans do include board games for those wanting a little activity with their brew and events such as trivia nights and theme parties are in the cards. Just on opening night alone, the communal vibe was apparent with so many new and longtime neighbors reconnecting and meeting for the first time. It was very cool to see on San Bruno and to have a reason (finally!) to be on our neighborhood “main street” past 3p.m.
The custom-built wood bar
With all my waxing on about community, let’s not forget the star of the night, the beer. F.D.R. opened with four of their brews on tap; The San Bruno Saison, Ole Black, Orange is the New Black and the Inauguration Session IPA. The last of which seemed to be a real crowd-pleaser with a lower alcohol content and a tamed hoppiness that is refreshing but not overpowering. As one of the owners put it, “an IPA that you can drink all day.” We tried all the brews (they offer a flight) and although I could be accused of being slightly biased, all the flavors were sophisticated and very well balanced. I’d be surprised if they this doesn’t become an attraction for people outside the community, it’s that good which is very exciting to have here. More brews will be coming as they ramp up production and there is talk of some non-alcoholic options on the way as well.
The stars of the night.
You can read more about the NanoBrewery concept and Simon’s in-depth reporting on his home brewing experience with supplies purchased in F.D.R.’s home brew supply shop. Click here: NanoBrewery and Homebrewing
Current menu. Two more will be added this weekend and there will be a total of 10 once they are fully up and running.
Ferment Drink Repeat is “proudly located in San Francisco’s sunny Portola neighborhood” at 2636 San Bruno Ave. Check out their website: Click here!
Hours:
Mon: Closed
Tues: 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm (Homebrew Shop Closes at 7:00 pm)
Wed : 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm (Homebrew Shop Closes at 7:00 pm)
Thu: 3:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Homebrew Shop Closes at 7:00 pm)
Fri: 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Homebrew Shop Closes at 7:00 pm)
Sat: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Homebrew Shop Closes at 7:00 pm)
Sun: Noon – 6:00 pm
Portola neighbors catching up over drinks.
