Spotlight: Mill Valley Beer Works
Ask a beer geek about craft beer, and we can tell you every where to find it on tap, what’s on tap at many places, and for the most part, keep ourselves immersed in the world of good beer. The reality is that craft beer still makes up only a small percentage of the market. The average consumer doesn’t know much about craft beer and may not be willing to spend the time to learn. That’s why Mill Valley Beer Works is such an interesting place. Located off the beaten path (aka the 101 corridor), this beer bar is also a neighborhood bar, bringing in their share of beer geeks, but also bringing in the locals for a tasty pint. Last weekend Joe Tucker and I stopped in for a visit to see how Tyler and Justin had been doing with their still newborn location.
The atmosphere was relaxed yet full of energy on the evening we came in. Busy, but not overly so, conversation was filling the room as we managed our way to the back where the bar is located. There we saw co-owner Tyler Catalana tending to business by the bar. Shortly after, brother Justin joined us to fill us in on happenings at their new watering hole.
This day was actually a bit special as it was the first brew day for MVBW. The taps will be dominated by guest taps, but Tyler and Justin wanted to have a small system on which they could brew different and creative styles. The house beers would supplement the guest taps, not the other way around. The first beer will be a saison, but Tyler warned me to not be too anxious, as these beers can take a while to finish.
When we perused the menu of guest taps, we had trouble finding many holes. As a beer geek I was very impressed as there was something for whichever mood I found myself in. What surprised me was the ability of the menu to appeal to the common man (or woman). Nothing too experimental, but nothing too safe at the same time, MVBW is a good place to take those interested newbies who just want to try something new.
In addition to a well rounded tap list, Mill Valley Beer Works also features an impressive bottle list. Knowing I didn’t have the time to sample through any bottles, I gave the list a quick look and nothing more, not wanting to tempt myself. What I did see was a full assortment of Belgian beer and a solid representation of American beer as well.
After chatting over a beer, Justin and Tyler gave us the unofficial tour and showed us a few tricks they have under their sleeves but asked that we not spread the word just yet. Let’s just say that I’m excited for where their bottle menu will be in 4-5 years.
On the way out, the waitress asked if we were eating. Without waiting for an answer she excitedly told me I had to try the small plates. Along with the bottle list, these will be a must try the next time I find myself in Mill Valley.
As a neighborhood bar, MVBW walks a fine line of catering to the local consumer while still appealing to the beer connoisseur. Do you know of any other places with this balance? Does it work? Are they something for everyone or are they doing two things for two crowds and doing neither well?
Get a better look at the Mill Valley Beer Works by checking out the slideshow from that evening.
One Comment to “Spotlight: Mill Valley Beer Works”
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thanks for the heads-up! didn’t even know the place. i will most definitely check it out next time i am in that neck of the woods!
prost!
casey