Local craft breweries tend to be unique and exciting and as an avid beer drinker, I love venturing out and introducing my palate to new flavors. California is nothing short of new, up and coming breweries. Brewing Reserve of California emerged onto the craft brewing scene and has made a huge impact on the community, way beyond its’ home in Costa Mesa. Husband and wife owners, Steve and Teryle Aguilar opened up Brewing Reserve of California a year ago and Eric Geralds, head brewer is conjuring up some killer brewskies. Beginning with only four beers on tap, this brewery has grown quickly, with ten rotating beers of every variety.
Before restaurant seating was prohibited, I frequently visited Brewing Reserve of California. I spent my time slowing sipping the Shandy that Laura (Brewing Reserve of California’s fun and friendly bartender) created, made from fresh blueberry lemonade and Grandma Oso (a double IPA), followed by some tacos and a never-ending game of Uno with friends; it is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in California. With 10 rotating taps, Brewing Reserve of California covers all palates ranging from light to full-bodied, lager to stout. They rotate their brews frequently and it’s sad to see some of the brews go, but they emerge with new brews every few weeks that enliven the senses. Starting with a four-ounce pour graduating to sixteen ounces which is only $6 beating most of the competition’s prices. There are also tasters which can range from four to ten, 4 oz pours of your choice which is a great way to start. The OC Tropical brew is a light, crisp Blonde Ale that has been steeped in Hawaiian fruit tea with hints of guava. Rainy Day Hef, an unfiltered German Hefeweizen with hints of cloves and bananas has a clean, bright finish. Adventurous beer drinkers will enjoy Scottish Unicorn, a Scottish Export Ale with its smooth malt body and hints of caramel warm you up from the inside out. Beyond beer, their amazing house-made lemonades are made with fruit from the local Farmer’s Market. Blueberry, peach, blackberry, strawberry, and jalapeno are some flavors you must try.
Once the beer starts settling in, a little snack is always nice. Complimentary popcorn is a great start and then make a run over to Ely’s Taco truck just a couple minutes down the road to get some delicious grub and head back looking like the champion that you are, with a plethora of tacos for all your friends to enjoy with their brews as you play cards and battleship. Ending the night with some beer to take home, opting between the Crowler (32oz) or Growler (64oz) is always a hard decision. In addition to the beer, enjoy a Yoga class which is held on the first Saturday of every month or Game Night on Wednesdays. You don’t have to leave your furry friend at home either since pets are welcome. Seating is varied whether you want to sit at the bar, couch, tables, or even their wild community table that is covered in faux grass. The Brewing Reserve of California is located right by OCC in Costa Mesa right off the 405 and 73 freeway.
When you have something so great, it’s only a matter of time before people start noticing. Not only does the pricing beat other craft breweries around in Southern California, but to get such exceptional beer at such a low price in a lively atmosphere, selfishly I hope this place doesn’t get big. Brewing Reserve of California is on to something and it will only keep growing, already catching the eyes of some established high-end restaurants. This brewery’s flawless beer creations offer a wide range of blissful productions that foster, awaken and stimulate your senses while you quench (that sometimes insatiable) thirst.
Come see for yourself what makes Brewing Reserve of California so unforgettable. Temporary pick up hours are from 1pm-8pm. Get a 32oz Crowler for only $12 which is an unbelievable price considering they are freshly sealed compared to most canned and bottled beers that sit on shelves for weeks or even months. Come get some Rainy Day Hef or double down with some Grandma Oso. Keep in mind that they do also have a rewards system. For every $5 you spend you get a point, and once you have accumulated enough points then you get free beer. Amazing!
Normal Business Hours are M-Th 5pm-10pm, Friday 5pm-Midnight, Saturday 1pm-Midnight and Sunday 1pm-10pm.
Brewing Reserve of California
2930 College Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 884-4704 Instagram/Facebook: BRCbeer
