Oceanside Brews & Bites
Did you know that San Diego North County’s Hops Highway runs from Oceanside to Escondido and is home to a third of the county’s 150+ breweries? In fact, with ten microbreweries in Oceanside alone, the city’s exciting craft beer industry booms alongside its flourishing food scene. Whether you prefer an Ale, IPA or Stout, you’re sure to find your brew style of choice in town. Here are several exceptional options to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your suds craving.
That Boy Good and Northern Pine Brewing
Popular That Boy Good just opened a second location shared with Northern Pine Brewing on N Horne St. serving Southern Louisiana-style barbecue paired with superbly crafted beer. The place sports modern farmhouse touches: white brick walls, rows of dark wood communal tables and a chopped pine bar splash. Select from mouth-watering meats seasoned and slow smoked to perfection like baby back-ribs, chopped brisket or chicken. Comforting sides include creamy Mac n Cheese, crunchy Frito Pie or decadent Dirty Fries.
For an easy light brew to go with your BBQ, try Northern Pine Brewing’s crisp Turning Point Cream Ale. Choose the Dark Traditions Porter for a more robust option that stands up well to heartier meats. Plans for ten indie beers on tap incorporate a S.M.A.S.H. (single-malt and single-hop) series showcasing minimalist ingredients. Can’t decide? Try a flight served on a clever, laser-etched paddle shaped like a pine tree.
Northern Pine’s co-founders Bobby Parsons, Aaron and Anne Ortega (pictured with bartender Chad Lee) bring their passion for craft beer, the great outdoors and giving back to the community to their top-notch microbrewery. The bold “Let’s Get Lost” motto on the wall pays tribute to their love of the wilderness. Anticipate live music and an outdoor patio in the near future.
Midnight Jack Brewing
Located in an unassuming business park off Highway 78, the cavernous Midnight Jack Brewing produces expressive brews in an industrial chic meets rustic countryside style space. Salvaged palette slats line the walls, up-cycled box springs interwoven with glowing light bulbs hang from the ceiling and a trendy, concrete bar plus picnic tables provide seating. The digs combined with amiable service attract regulars and visitors alike.
Owners John and Kathy Scheri opened in March 2016 with the help of their two children. Skillful brewer John handcrafts core beers in classic styles including lemony Juice Box IPA, hoppy Midnight Jack Pale Ale and bubbly Savant Saison. John also creates small batch specialties like the chocolaty Devil’s Food Stout so there’s almost always something new on tap to try.
For entertainment, play videos in the dedicated game room, board games, cornhole, or attend fun events such as comedy nights, trivia Thursdays and live music on weekends. Assorted local food trucks bring in delectable delights like gyros, mac n cheese and tacos.
MORE: Beer Collaboration- “Greetings from Oceanside” – 2017 Fall Issue
Breakwater Brewing Company
For great pizza and beer, discover downtown’s Breakwater Brewing Company. This full service restaurant and award-winning brewery is kid-friendly with a dog-friendly patio. Enjoy the laid-back, beachy vibe of the surf-themed dining room and sports on eight widescreen TVs.
Choose from an impressive selection of 40 total house and guest beers on tap. For a refreshing option on a hot day, try the light blonde Breakwater Beach Honey Ale brewed with real honey or the DMJ IPA (named after a Camp Pendleton surf spot) characterized by crisp, piney hop flavors.
The food menu features pizza, sandwiches and salads. To start, try one of the six varieties of beer-infused wings. Signature pies include the savory South O with roasted garlic, diced chicken and sun dried tomatoes along with The Works loaded with pepperoni, crumbled sausage and Canadian bacon. Finally, don’t miss weekly specials such as $1.50 pizza slices or pulled pork sliders during happy hour.
About the Author
Jolee Pink is an Oceanside-based writer, designer and artist. She runs the popular Eat Drink SD Facebook group and her Wabisabi Green lifestyle blog focuses on art, design, food and travel. For more information, please visit wabisabigreen.com.
