Give me a lazy sunny Saturday afternoon with no real plans and there’s almost nothing better I’d like to do than sip it away at Hopmonk Tavern’s outdoor beer garden in Sebastapol.
Bypass the usual need for reservations by cozying up to the bar and ordering from a fine selection of craft brews that are ‘seasonally correct’. Hopmonk brews up a few of their own beers (the unfiltered Kellerbier comes SCL recommended) and offers them on draft alongside other area selections like Lagunitas, Humbolt Brewery & Russian River Brewing. There’s also a full bar with spirits and wine if you’re so inclined.
Take your drinks to go and mozy out to the fantastic beer garden Hopmonk has managed to create in the middle of town. Historic buildings, stone walls, a central fountain, rustic wooden tables and benches – there’s even an acoustic stage where talented local artists will serenade you while you soak up the sun and sip the ale.
If you’re spending a little more time there and need some bites to go with your beer, Hopmonk has a great menu that pairs well with the local beer offerings – tandoori chicken skewers, pulled pork sandwiches, beer braised bratwurst and more. You can eat outside at the aforementioned rustic tables or inside, there are cozy booths scattered across the 100-yr old Douglas Fir wooden floors. When they say it’s like eating in a cozy bar rather than a restaurant, I have to agree. I’ll take another Kellerbier please. Cheers.
SCL insider tip: Hopmonk Tavern has a fantastic live music scene on evenings throughout the week and weekend (late night menu included) and there’s also a weekly open mic night for your budding artist within.
