Travel Archives | Short Brews

Best Breweries in Portland

Thomas Short — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 16:54:22 +0000

Portland is home to some of the best breweries on the West Coast, and not enough can be said about just how good beer is across the city. I love visiting Portland. Getting around the city is easy, the food is spectacular, and people take their coffee and beer very seriously (a big win for me). Every time I visit, there’s something new to check out. This means new breweries, but also closed breweries, including Rogue and Ecliptic. Fortunately, all of my favorite breweries are still around. If you’re in Portland and need a spot to get an unforgettable beer, here are the best places to check out. 8 Best Breweries in Portland 1. Breakside Brewery Breakside is one of my favorite breweries in the world, not just in Portland. I’ve been to their downtown location, and it offers pretty much everything you’d expect from a stellar craft brewery: an industrial feel, indoor and outdoor seating, and a great food menu. I also visited it last during fresh hop season, and the two fresh hop beers I tried were exceptional. Breakside should be a must-visit for anyone sightseeing around Portland. 2. Wayfinder Beer If you love lagers and pilsners, Wayfinder Beer is the place to go. Wayfinder nails that Czech style, and every lager I’ve had of theirs has been great. But what really stands out to me with Wayfinder is that they created my favorite style of beer: the Cold IPA. If you’re looking to taste a piece of beer history, visit Wayfinder and order the Cold IPA (then stay for the lagers). 3. StormBreaker Brewing If you’re exploring Mississippi, you’ll probably stumble upon StormBreaker Brewing. It’s a great location with some charm, but the outdoor seating is perfect for big groups. Their food was pretty good, but it’s tough to compete with all the excellent options up and down Mississippi Ave. But if you’re looking for quality craft beer (specifically IPAs), StormBreaker is a safe choice. 4. Great Notion Brewing Great Notion will always make me think of beers that are a little too sweet. Is it because a lot of their stouts are themed after breakfast foods or dessert? Maybe. It could also be because IPAs like Ripe and Juice Jr. lean hard into the juicy flavors of hops. While Great Notion leans a little sweet for me, they are masters of their style, and they have locations all over the West Coast now. Of all their locations, the Alberta Street location is my personal favorite. 5. Von Ebert Brewing Another great brewery option if you’re walking up and down Mississippi, Von Ebert Brewing makes all-around quality beer. I’m not sure if they have a self-declared speciality, but my personal favorite was the Clubhaus Lager, an American Light Lager that is basically just a light beer but drinkable. 6. Upright Beer Station Upright Beer Station (or Upright Brewing) is kind of out there, both in terms of distance and style. Upright calls an old auto repair shop/gas station home, so the location doesn’t lack for character, and they’re happy to brew fun styles like an ESB or a weisse. It’s the perfect setup for a cozy neighborhood brewery. But if you’re visiting Portland, Upright might be a little too out of the way from where you’re probably staying. Fortunately for me, Southern California traffic has made everything in Portland seem easy to get to, and I highly recommend checking out Upright. 7. Ruse Brewing I think my biggest mistake with Ruse Brewing was not getting pizza. As far as beer goes, Ruse Brewing does hazy and West Coast IPAs incredibly well, and they definitely seem like the focus of the beer menu. It was only after visiting that I’ve come to understand that Crust Collective pizza is the perfect pairing for the beer. It’s just so hard to pick where to eat in Portland because it feels like everywhere has good food. Next time I visit, I’m going to try Ruse’s pizza, and if you visit, try one of their hazy IPAs. 8. Steeplejack Brewing Steeplejack Brewing offers one of the most memorable beer-drinking experiences. The taproom calls an old church home, and the inside has a fantastic old-world charm to it. It feels like drinking beer in Disneyland. They brew a little bit of everything, with the West Coast Pilsner being my favorite (and one of my favorite styles in general). You can find most of these PDX breweries at local taprooms, so if you want a unique experience and have limited time, you should prioritize Steeplejack. Beers to Try in Portland There are so many great beers in Portland, but if you want a little direction, here are my favorites: Breakside IPA: One of my favorite beers in general, just a great IPA. Wayfinder Cold IPA: This is a piece of craft beer history (and it’s good). Von Ebert Clubhaus Lager: Just a great light beer, perfect for the summer. Upright Farmhouse: Really any farmhouse beer they have on tap is worth getting. Great Notion Juice Jr.: If you like sweeter, juicier beers, this is a safe pick. Beyond PDX: Oregon Beer Country I’ve restricted my “best breweries in Portland” list to breweries that I’ve visited AND are based in Portland. Of course, anyone from Portland knows that there are other exceptional breweries in the area, some of which have taprooms in Portland, too. These aren’t technically Portland breweries, but they’re all worth trying if you’re in the area. Deschutes Brewery: Based in Bend, Deschutes is available all over the country, but they do have a taproom in the Pearl District right by Von Ebert. My favorite is the Mirror Pond pale ale. 10 Barrel Brewing: Also based in Bend and also with a location in Pearl, 10 Barrel Brewing does every style pretty well. pFriem Brewing: Based in Hood River (and it’s a great location if you’re driving through), pFriem’s pilsner is one of my all-time favorites. Pelican Brewing: If you’re checking out

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Best Breweries In Seattle

Thomas Short — Tue, 26 May 2026 17:22:50 +0000

When you think of Seattle, you might be tempted to make some awful joke about being sleepless. I know I am, and I’ve never even seen the movie. But I’m also tempted to think about the Seattle beer scene because it is POPPING! Yes, Seattle is home to plenty of things. A football team, a baseball team, the Space Needle, some other landmarks, blah blah blah. When you’re a self-anointed beer snob like I am, you’re looking for one thing: a brewery you can sit in for hours on end, crying tears of joy into the complimentary pretzels while you finish your eighth saison. For locals, visitors, and beer snobs alike, here’s a quick spotlight on the Emerald City. 10 Best Breweries In Seattle 1. Fremont Brewing Fremont Brewing has long been my top recommendation for Seattle beer. Odds are that if you’re visiting, you might have flown Alaska Airlines in and had a chance to try some special brews by Fremont. The taproom is right across the street from Lake Washington and has my favorite brewery vibes in the city. Lush IPA and the Golden Pilsner are both safe picks, but try their barrel-aged beer or rotating taps for something new and interesting. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) 2. Cloudburst Brewing With locations in the popular Ballard neighborhood and touristy Pike Place Market area, Cloudburst Brewing should be easy to find if you’re visiting. The head brewer came from Elysian Brewing, so their specialty is definitely IPAs. However, don’t expect something super bitter like Elysian’s Space Dust IPA. If you’re looking for a juicy hazy IPA, you should add Cloudburst to your list. 3. Holy Mountain Brewing One of the most popular breweries among locals, Holy Mountain Brewing is best known for its incredible barrel-aged beers. If you want something more traditional, their saisons and ales are worth ordering. The original Interbay location isn’t super easy to get to, but there’s another newer spot in Phinney Ridge which is much more accessible. 4. Stoup Brewing My personal favorite in Ballard, Stoup Brewing has an awesome location and great assortment of well-done beers. The IPAs are good, but I recommend going with whatever rotating lager they have on draft. If you find Mixtape Romeo, be sure to order that first! Stoup recently opened another location in Capitol Hill which I haven’t had a chance to check out, but it’s good to see more breweries entering that neighborhood. 5. Georgetown Brewing There was a time when visiting Georgetown Brewing was nearly pointless, since the taproom didn’t actually sell pints to drink on site. However, this storied Seattle staple has since opened a legitimate taproom that’s modern and thoughtfully designed. Outside of the space, Seattleites will tell you that Georgetown has long been one of the best breweries in the city. You can find Manny’s pale ale pretty much everywhere, but my favorite is Johnny Utah pale ale. 6. Seapine Brewing If you’re planning on going to a Mariners, Sounders, or Seahawks game in Seattle, make sure to stop by Seapine Brewing. Hands down the best spot in SoDo, Seapine’s taproom is unassuming but large enough to enjoy with a big group. They brew a little bit of everything, but I always get the Seapine IPA or Pilsner, both of which you can probably find on tap in bars around the city. 7. Urban Family Brewing I’ve loved Urban Family since they were in Magnolia, and their Ballard spot is bound to be a destination if you’re planning on brewery hopping in that neighborhood. Urban Family makes exceptional sours, with Guava Dawn being a long-time favorite. They make good IPAs, but I recommend getting one of their lighter beers, like a saison or lager, if you aren’t into sours. 8. Ravenna Brewing If your trip to Seattle takes you near the University of Washington, go a little bit north of U Village and check out Ravenna Brewing. Ravenna Brewing’s taproom has such a classic brewery atmosphere, with great indoor and outdoor seating. They don’t brew tons of options, but I’ve never had a beer from Ravenna Brewing that I didn’t enjoy. 9. Reuben’s Brews Another local favorite, Reuben’s Brews essentially started what is now the Ballard Brewing District and have since expanded to add a location in Downtown Seattle. Crikey! IPA and Hazalicious have been mainstays on the menu for years and are both excellent. However, if you need a break from beer, order one of Reuben’s hard seltzers. They’re the best in the city, and you can buy cans from most local grocery stores. 10. Elysian Brewing It’s impossible to pick the best breweries in Seattle without mentioning Elysian Brewing. From the Space Dust IPA to the Men’s Room Red, Elysian has served quality craft beer to the Seattle community for decades. I know that selling out ot AB InBev rubbed a lot of locals the wrong way, but Elysian’s quality hasn’t dropped off since the sale. The Capitol Hill location was the first Seattle Brewery I ever visited, so I do have good memories there and may be a little biased. But odds are that you’ve had Elysian before, so if you want to try it at the source, stop by for a pint. Where to Brewery Hop in Seattle One of my favorite parts about Seattle is how each neighborhood has its own vibe, which the local breweries match. Most neighborhoods are also very walkable, making brewery hopping really easy! Here are neighborhoods to check out. Ballard. The Ballard brewery scene is quickly becoming a tourist destination, and for good reason. You can walk to half a dozen breweries in just a few minutes, and each has its own identity and signature style. I even covered the best breweries in Ballard to help visitors find the best fit! Fremont. I’ve already mentioned Fremont Brewing, but Gasworks Brewing and El Suenito Brewing Company are nearby. If you want a change

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Best Breweries in Ballard, Seattle

Thomas Short — Fri, 22 May 2026 21:23:55 +0000

Seattle has a reputation for craft beer, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a more craft-beer-dense neighborhood than Ballard. I should know; I lived in Ballard for years and watched breweries come, go, expand, and grow. There are many great breweries in Seattle, but let’s focus on breweries that you can find (and enjoy) in Ballard. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Best Breweries in Ballard Ballard is spoiled with great beer and fantastic spots, and it’s tough to find a bad spot to get a beer. Here are my top spots to enjoy some craft beer in Ballard. 1. Stoup Brewing One of several great spots on NW 52nd St, Stoup is a great place to grab an IPA or lager and enjoy the outdoors. They have a large outdoor patio with a cool fire pit, and they often host pop-ups where you can buy odds and ends. My favorite part of Stoup is the upstairs area, which has a separate bar and a nice balcony. They have a meat vending machine, too! 2. Reuben’s Brews Sitting on 14th, Reuben’s is a mainstay in Ballard. Honestly, I don’t think the Ballard beer scene would be anything like it is today without Reuben’s. This spot has great IPAs and a fantastic line of seltzers. Just down the road is their barrel house, a smaller spot where you can try some more unconventional brews. 3. Fair Isle Brewing If you like Jester King and farmhouse beers, Fair Isle is the spot to go. Their saisons, sours, and similar styles are all fantastic. While their taproom isn’t my favorite, it’s definitely worth dropping by to pick up a bottle or two. 4. Bale Breaker/Yonder Cider Bale Breaker broke into the Ballard beer scene by moving into a huge location with a great indoor and outdoor area. Together with Yonder Cider, Bale Breaker took this awesome space and made it yet another go-to spot for great beer in the neighborhood. 5. Urban Family Brewing Urban Family has cemented itself as one of the top breweries in Seattle, not just in Ballard. They have a cozy outdoor space, and while they have a cool upstairs, I often find that it’s way too crowded. But the beer is really good here, and its location right across the street from Stoup makes it easy to hit two of Seattle’s best breweries in one quick visit. 6. Lucky Envelope Brewing Located on 50th, Lucky Envelope takes traditional beers and puts a little spin on them, whether that’s a seasonal beer to celebrate Lunar New Year or their year-round Raspberry Sour. My favorite beer I ever had here was an IPA made with Buddha’s hand, to give you an idea of the types of flavors they experiment with. Fun fact: my friend once told me the bartenders would mix him a Raspberry Sour and a Peanut Butter Stout they had on tap. I didn’t believe him. He asked the bartender if they would mix the two beers. The bartender said no. 7. Cloudburst Brewing Seattleites might be quick to say, “Cloudburst isn’t a Ballard brewery.” Yes, their main location is in Belltown, but their Ballard location fits in perfectly. Located on Shilshole, there really aren’t any other breweries super close by, making this an easy stop to pick if you’re out and about on Leary. The spot is surprisingly cozy, and the beer is always good. 8. Wheelie Pop Brewing A newer brewery to the Ballard neighborhood, Wheelie Pop draws its inspiration from racing. They specialize in lighter beers (think lagers, pilsners, etc) and do an excellent job. The space is a little industrial and not the most charming, but it’s worth stopping by to try their beers. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) 9. Obec Brewing Obec aims to tackle classic Czech and German styles. Their spot is cool and their pilsner is incredible, but a lot of their other beers leave something to be desired. If you like a good pilsner, it’s worth dropping in. Beers to Try in Ballard There are so many great beers brewed in Ballard, but here are some of my favorites worth highlighting: Stoup Mosaic IPA: This is my favorite year-round beer at my favorite Ballard brewery, so I had to mention it. But if it’s on tap, get the Mixtap Romeo lager. Obec Pilsner: If you’re stopping by Obec, this is the beer to get. Bale Breaker Bottom Cutter IPA: Bale Breaker is best known for their IPAs, and this is their best IPA (in my opinion). Fair Isle Bobbi Saison: You could honestly go with any saison at Fair Isle, but the Bobbi has been available every time I’ve stopped in. Reuben’s Crushable Hazy Pale Ale: It’s a great pale ale. I’d also recommend trying whatever seltzer they have on tap.

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Beer in Japan: What to Drink In Tokyo, Osaka, and Beyond

Thomas Short — Wed, 06 May 2026 15:35:03 +0000

Japan is one of the hottest tourist destinations for Americans, and for good reason. From the culture and history to the food and views, Japan has something to offer pretty much every visitor. As a traveler heading to Japan, I wasn’t prepared for how big the beer culture has become. And it was a really pleasant surprise. Beer is a huge part of daily culture, from izakayas to getting together with friends. You can find really good beer anywhere you go, and if you look hard enough, you can also find a fast-growing craft beer scene. By no means should you travel to Japan just to drink beer, but if you’re planning a trip across the Pacific and want to find delicious beer, here are some spots (and beers) to check out. Beer Spots in Tokyo Odds are that if you’re visiting Japan, you’re traveling through Tokyo. The biggest city in the world has plenty to offer everyone, but let’s focus on spots to grab a beer. Ginza is a famous district known for its shopping and proximity to Tokyo Station. But the best spot to stop for a beer is the Ginza Lion Beer Hall. Created in 1934, the beer hall has a rich history that’s showcased through photos inside the waiting area. Along with serving tons of great draft beer from around the world. Ginza Lion Beer Hall also has delicious barbecue, making it a great stop for lunch or afternoon snacks. Another area you’re sure to stop in is Shibuya. Also known for its shopping (this is a theme in Japan), Shibuya has a young energy, vibrant nightlife, and chaotic quality that makes it fun and exciting. As you walk through the Scramble Crossing, you might stop by the Shibuya Parco building, which is full of fun stores. But the basement (aptly called Chaos Kitchen) is where you can find izakayas, including Beer Boy. Beer Boy serves local craft beer on tap, cans, and bottles, and craft breweries rotate through the spot. I had Teenage Brewing’s Asobi DDH DIPA, a style of beer I was not prepared to run into just two days into a Japan trip. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Further south in Yokohama, friends took us out for barbecue after a long day of sightseeing. It’s not a craft beer, but I did enjoy Suntory The Premium Malt’s, one of the main beers you can find throughout Japan. It’s worth noting that most beer in Japan is incredibly cheap compared to what most people are used to in the United States, and for the most part, the beer is crisp, light, and refreshing; perfect after a day of being a tourist. Beer Spots in Kyoto Kyoto isn’t large, especially in comparison to Tokyo and Osaka, but there are still plenty of spots to grab and enjoy some beer. Here were a few of my favorites. Nishiki Market is a bustling outdoor market right in the heart of Kyoto, and it’s nonstop shopping and food. While most places serve cheap sake to complement yakitori, you can also find nice spots to relax and enjoy a cold Sapporo or Kirin Ichiban. There are also great ramen spots nearby, and Sapporo and ramen are a great pairing. If you do stop by Nishiki Market, make a point to swing by Spring Valley Brewery. This craft brewery offers flights, seasonal taps, and a few solid flagship beers. Most of the people in Spring Valley were tourists (it is right by Nishiki Market), so the experience didn’t feel as authentic as Beer Boy. Still, this was a great spot to spend an hour and get off my feet, and I enjoyed their 496 Original Lager. Beer Spots in Osaka The final stop on our tour was Osaka, and what a great way to end a trip! Aside from grabbing beers at izakayas in Kyobashi, my favorite spot to grab a beer was in Dotonbori with the famous Asahi Dry sign in the background. Most places around there sell Asahi Dry, so you should have no trouble creating the perfect a beer-lover’s Instagram post. For craft beer, I stopped by a local spot and grabbed beer from Minoh Beer. This is another local craft brewery, based in northern Osaka in Minoh. If you don’t want to go out of your way to visit their main spot, you should be able to find their beer in bottles or on draft elsewhere in the city. I had the Pilsner and Pale Ale, both of which were excellent. Enjoying the Beer Culture in Japan It’s hard to explain beer culture in Japan without experiencing it yourself, but I would describe it as social, food-driven, and relaxed. Japanese people are hard-working, and a beer at an izakaya can be the ultimate way to relax after a long day. The macro beers, from Asahi to Sapporo, all work perfectly with Japanese cuisine, and they’re light enough so you can continue walking around and enjoying your day. The craft beer scene is growing, and I know I had more craft beer than I mentioned here. With a little bit of looking, you’re sure to find great craft beer throughout Tokyo and Osaka. With any luck, this post will be updated in the near future, because I’d love to go back.

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Best Breweries in San Diego

Thomas Short — Mon, 04 May 2026 21:12:02 +0000

San Diego may be most well known for its fair weather, golf, and beaches, but it’s also one of the best cities in the world for craft beer. I moved here from Seattle and was happy to continue to be surrounded by incredible beer. The craft beer scene in SD is dense, creative, and celebrated by locals. If you’re in San Diego for a weekend of if you’ve lived here for years, these are the breweries to visit. 10 Best Breweries in San Diego 1. AleSmith Brewing Company AleSmith is a local institution, and there’s plenty of reasons to try their beer. The main location for AleSmith (aptly located on AleSmith Court) is a must-visit for anyone brewery hopping in Miramar. The .394 Pale Ale (regular and hazy variety) is one of the best go-to beers in the city, and they serve micheladas, which is a bonus. Out-of-towners might know AleSmish best for the Speedway Stout which regularly gets a barrel-aged treatment. They also make the official beer of SDSU, the San Diego State Ale. Everything on the menu is great, and you can find their beer all over the city. 2. Pure Project Pure Project is the kind of brewery that makes you want to become a regular. Aside from the sustainability practices, community efforts, and giving back through donations (all very cool), Pure Project consistently brews great beer. From clean farmhouse brews to the Pub Ale, there’s plenty to choose from for all types of beer fans. It’s worth noting that Pure Project specializes in unfiltered beers, so don’t be surprised to see a little bit of cloudiness in most of what they produce. I prefer the Miramar location, but there’s a great spot next to Balboa Park if you’re planning a day at the zoo or museums. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) 3. Ballast Point Brewing Company One of the most recognizable SD beer brands, Ballast Point is an absolute slugger. The Sculpin IPA is one of the best examples of a West Coast IPA you’ll find, along with all the other variants they produce, from hazy to grapefruit. If you want the full San Diego experience, I recommend getting the Swingin’ Friar Ale, the offical beer of the San Diego Padres. Their spot in Little Italy is a lot of fun and close to other great bars and restaurants. 4. North Park Beer Company When you do something right, keep doing it. That has to be the mantra at North Park Beer Company since they routinely brew award-winning West Coast IPAs. The Hop Fu! IPA is the go-to options for IPA lovers, but ask the bartender what other awesome creations they have on tap. If you are a big fan of IPAs, this should be the first stop on your list. 5. Societe Brewing I probably rank Societie Brewing higher than other locals, but every time I’ve visited one of their spots, I’ve had a great time. I’m partial to their Old Town location, which is just far enough way from the tourist area to not be overrun, but close enough for a quick walk over if you’re seeing the sights. The Pupil IPA is widely available across the city and is hands-down their best beer. 6. Fall Brewing Company View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Another local brewery with a few locations, Fall Brewing is easy to love. Their Plenty for All Pilsner is always my go-to beer, which is the perfect change of pace from some of the IPA-heavy breweries on this list. Their Miramar location is the main spot, and it’s a quick drive from some of the other breweries on this list. It’s defenitely worth stopping by if you want a crisp lager over a hoppy IPA. 7. Coronado Brewing Company Technically Coronado Brewing Company is in Coronada, not San Diego, but it’s in the county and their beer is fantastic! Coronado Brewing is well known in San Diego, and their Salty Crew Blonde Ale encapsulates everything that’s great about the beach, boats, and sunshine; truly it’s the perfect summertime beer. You can find Coronado’s brews all over the city, but a quick stop over to their taproom in Coronado will also come with some of the best views of San Diego! 8. Modern Times Beer Modern Times is one of those brands that I always saw at the grocery store, but took way too long to realize it’s a San Diego staple. Their Mosaic IPA is one of my favorites to pick up at the store, and I always make a point to stop by their taproom in Encinitas when I’m in the area. If you’re staying in San Diego city limits, they have a spot in North Park that’s near other breweries (and great tacos). 9. Eppig Brewing You can find great beer just about anywhere in San Diego, but if you’re visiting then you’re here for some good weather and atmosphere. Eppig Brewing’s Waterfront Biergarten in Point Loma is literally right on the water in a harbor near where San Diego Bay meets the Pacific Ocean. They have good IPAs, but I alwasy prefer the Special Lager since it pairs so well with the sunshine. 10. Hopnonymous Brewing Hopnonymous is the type of place that reminds me of the good old days of craft beer, where breweries popped up out of nowhere and made it work. Based in Kearney Mesa (though locals would probably just say “Convoy”), Hopnonymous is a fun spot with a blend of traditional and creative beer styles. I love the Leaving Without Saying Goodbye Irish Red, but there’s always an interesting IPA on the menu worth trying. They also have a spot in Normal Heights, which might appeal more to locals looking for a new watering hole. Where to Brewery Hop in San Diego The breweries in San Diego may seem spread out at first glance, but

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Best Breweries in San Francisco

Thomas Short — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 22:00:47 +0000

San Francisco is one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s also foggy, chaotic, expensive, touristy…and full of great beer! There’s a reason that people love living there, and that people like me love visiting. I first wrote about the beer scene in San Francisco back in 2018, and a lot has changed since then. Anchor Brewing closed, and 21st Amendment has undergone some big changes. There are also new spots, spots that have grown, and spots that make much better beer than they did eight years ago. Before you plan a big brewery trip to SF, keep in mind that there are many more brewery-dense cities to visit, like San Diego or Seattle. But what San Francisco lacks in brewery quantity, it more than makes up for in quality. Also, some of the greatest breweries in the world are just outside the City. If you’re in San Francisco and need a place to get a great beer, here’s where to go. Best Breweries in San Francisco Cellarmaker Brewing Co. Cellarmaker has been my favorite brewery in the City since I first stumbled in eight years back, and nothing has changed after a few more visits over the years. What started as a small SoMa operation in 2013 has since grown across the Bay Area, but the Mission Street taproom is still the spot to go. Instead of creating a few flagships to stock their menu, Cellarmaker constantly rotates small batches, which means the tap list could be entirely different between visits. If you’re into IPAs and pizza, make sure to stop by. Fort Point Beer Company If IPAs aren’t your thing, Fort Point should be your first stop. Founded in the Presidio in 2014, Fort Point’s specialties are lagers, including their Kolsch and Italian Pilsner. They have a few locations now, but the beer garden at the Ferry Building is where I visited. Everything about that location just feels like San Francisco in the best way. Odds are that anyone visiting San Francisco will be near this location during their visit. Standard Deviant Brewing Standard Deviant has a few SF locations, and both are worth a visit. Personally, I prefer the Pier 70 location since it’s not too far from Oracle Park, since my ideal day in San Francisco includes going to a Giants game. The beer at Standard Deviant is pretty eclectic, which I appreciate, even though I got a Kolsch multiple times during my last visit. Southern Pacific Brewing Southern Pacific is named for the rail line that used to run down Harrison Street, so you already know the vibe before you walk in. It’s a huge location that does craft beer, cocktails, and food, so it’s perfect for a group with varying tastes. Beers to Try in San Francisco Not trying to tell you what to drink, but if you need a starting point: Almanac sours — any of them, they’re all great. Cellarmaker — whatever’s on tap. Seriously, just trust the list, especially if it’s an IPA. Fort Point KSA — excellent Kolsch that’s available year-round. 21st Amendment Brew Free! Or Die IPA — you can probably find this somewhere in the City. Beyond SF: NorCal Beer Country While breweries may be hard to come by in San Francisco, great beer is not. San Francisco is close to brewing juggernauts Russian River Brewing and Lagunitas. They’re a little far for a day trip from San Francisco, but you should be able to find their beer all over the city. So, they aren’t technically SF breweries, but they’re definitely local options. Honorable Mentions 21st Amendment Brewery 21st Amendment is a long favorite of mine, in large part because they’ve been distributing quality craft beer for well over a decade. Their South Park location was the first place I went when I did my original San Francisco brewery tour. As of right now, the location is closed, but I’m leaving it on this list in the hopes that it will open back up one day. Almanac Beer Company Okay, Almanac is technically based in nearby Alameda, but they used to have a spot in San Francisco, and their beer is truly excellent. You can probably find their beer all around the City, so give it a try.

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Best Breweries in Reno, Nevada

Thomas Short — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 22:32:27 +0000

Reno, the Biggest Little City in the World. When I mention Reno, most people think about gambling, Lake Tahoe, or the time they drove through and stayed at one of the hotels or casinos for a night on their way to somewhere else. But Reno is much more than a gambling destination or a spot to pass through on the way to your vacation. Reno is the destination — at least it should be if you have any interest in craft beer. Yes, I’m biased because I lived there for 13 years, but I’ve also lived in Seattle and San Diego, so I can objectively compare. Trust me: Reno has great beer. Here’s where to go. You can always check out my shared map to easily find these places during your visit. Best Breweries in Reno Keep in mind that Reno’s brewery scene is always evolving. I’ve had to update this list a few times since I first published it, and I’m sure I’ll have to again. I’ve also included locations that aren’t technically in Reno. But I can’t let these gems go unmentioned! If I’ve forgetton somewhere, or there’s a new brewery in town I need to check out, just let me know in the comments. Ok, on to the list: Great Basin Brewing Co. I can’t in good conscience tell someone to visit Reno without mentioning Great Basin Brewing Co. Named after the Great Basin (an aquifer that covers most of Nevada, including Reno), this is Nevada’s oldest operating brewery. Originally opened in 1993 in Sparks, Great Basin ended up adding a second location in Reno, with another further south in Minden. But let’s focus on the Reno spot. The beer is excellent, the food menu is equally great, and the atmosphere leans more restaurant than brewery, although there is a large bar where you can meet locals and chat with the bartenders. It’s in a super convenient location, and if you can’t find time to stop by, make sure to grab an Icthyasaur IPA, aka Icky, pretty much anywhere around town. Revision Brewing Co. Revision Brewing burst onto the scene when it first opened. Founded by Knee Deep Brewing alum Jeremy Warren, Revision has quickly entrenched itself as a go-to brand for beer drinkers in Northern Nevada. Ok yes, this one is also technically a Sparks brewery, but you can find a lot of their beers at Lead Dog Brewing (keep reading to learn more about this spot). Anyway, Revision built their name on world-class IPAs (single, double, and triple), and have expanded into other styles over the years. Everything they make is worth trying. The Depot Craft Brewery & Distillery The Depot isn’t my favorite spot in Reno, but it leaves an impression since it’s one of the most unique spots on this list. The Depot is located in a beautifully restored 1910 historic railroad building in downtown Reno, and they’ve kept a ton of the character in the restaurant. They brew great beer, serve excellent food, and distill their own spirits on-site (one of the first businesses in Nevada allowed to brew and distill under one roof!), so there’s a little something for everyone. The atmosphere alone is worth the stop, and it’s near a few other great breweries. Brasserie St. James A longtime local favorite, Brasserie St. James has been a staple of the Reno beer scene, but honestly I’d come here for brunch. The Belgian-inspired approach to both beer and food sets this one apart from the rest of the list. It’s more of a restaurant, so it’s a great spot for a longer, more relaxed visit, and the food is genuinely excellent. In all seriousness, try the food. Bristlecone Brewing Co. Not into IPAs? Bristlecone Brewing Co. is the spot for you! Bristlecone is the newest brewery on this list since it just opened in 2025 in the space formerly occupied by the beloved Imbib Custom Ales. While Reno misses Imbib, Bristlecone takes a fresh approach to the space, and maintain’s Imbib’s old passion of trying to do things a little different. The team comes from Alibi Ale Works and focuses on approachable, well-crafted lagers and ales. It only had 4 beers on tap when I visted (it was brand new), but I’d expect a nice array of options today. 10 Torr Distilling and Brewing 10 Torr is another dual-threat distillery/brewery hybrid under one roof, with a tap list that reflects exactly that range. The Mexican Lager is the main reason I stop in, but there are other flagships and rotating beers that give you plenty of reasons to stay. Oh ya, they also offer cocktails mixed with their very own liquors. Also, the space is incredible (pictured below). I’ve never had a bad expereince at 10 Torr and don’t think I ever will. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Pigeon Head Brewery If you’ve made it this far through the list, then you get my honest opinion: Pigeon Head is the best brewery in Reno. It earns its place on this list on the strength of its Pilsner alone, but everything else is great. The Red Rye Lager. The Black Lager. The Silver Sage Pale Ale. The location is so laid back and low key that it checks pretty much every box I have for breweries. They even make dog treats out of the old mash! I think Pigeon Head reflects Reno’s character perfectly, and I highly recommend stopping by. Slieve Brewing Company If you’re stopping by Pigoen Head, take about 50 steps to also check out Slieve Brewing. It’s a family-owned, award-winning small-batch brewery, and there are some tasty beers on the menu. Slieve keeps quality front and center, and the taproom has a welcoming, neighborhood feel that makes it easy to settle in for a while. The location right by Pigeon Head makes me optimistic that Reno will be getting its own brewery district in the future. Lead Dog Brewing Co. Lead Dog is

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Best “Beeramar” Breweries in Miramar, San Diego

Thomas Short — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 20:44:11 +0000

Anyone who has visited San Diego and checked out the craft beer scene knows that there are special neighborhoods in the city that are absolutely packed with high-quality craft beer. Miramar happens to be one of those neighborhoods. In no particular order, these are the best breweries and taprooms to check out in Miramar. You can always check out my shared map to easily find these places during your visit. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Best Breweries in Miramar Keep in mind that breweries are constantly opening in Miramar, and some of the locations mentioned below are just one of several that the brewery has in San Diego or Southern California. Also, since I first published this list, there are a few breweries that have since closed. So, there aren’t as many spots to grab craft beer in Miramar, but the options you do have are fantastic. Ok, the list: Pure Project Pure Project’s Miramar location is their original taproom, and in my opinion, the best to visit. There’s still some brewing done in the back, but a newly updated outdoor area makes this a great spot to relax on a sunny day. You can find a nice range of beer options at Pure Project, with the menu mostly consisting of their unfiltered styles. Highlights include their IPAs, barrel-aged beers, and pub ale. You can also choose from several non-alcoholic options and wine choices. Pure currently offers empanadas at their location, which are fine, but pop-up food-truck style vendors set up shop in the parking lot out front on weekends. AleSmith Brewing Company AleSmith is one of the best-known breweries in San Diego, and Miramar is where the magic happens! This massive location (conveniently located on AleSmith Court) is the biggest tasting room in San Diego, and it’s a must-visit if you’re in the area. AleSmith fans far and wide know about the Speedway Stout, but locals love the .394 pale ale, a tribute to Padres legend Tony Gwynn. There’s a regular food truck out front, so you can enjoy some beer and eat good food all in one place. Fall Brewing Company Fall’s home may have been in North Park, but the Miramar location is where the brewing happens. It’s also a great spot to grab a beer! You can get a nice range of options from Fall Brewing, with the Plenty for All pilsner and Green Hat IPA topping most people’s charts. They don’t have a kitchen, but food trucks are pretty regular around here. If you get REALLY hungry, I recommend stopping by Cutwater just down the road. Mission Brewing Mission Brewing added its footprint to Miramar when it purchased Rough Draft Brewing, and I couldn’t be happier about it. Mission’s location is really cool to visit, and they do some fun small-batch type beers at this location. It’s worth noting that there isn’t anything to eat here, but if you want to enjoy that classic craft brewery atmosphere, this is a good spot to visit. Duck Foot Brewing Duck Foot is one of a few local breweries I love that reduce the gluten levels in their beer. But don’t let less gluten make you think this beer has less flavor! The Duckzilla is the main beer to try here, and you can always find a food truck out front. Duck Foot always has something going on, too, like trivia, jazz nights, live music, and sometimes stand-up comedy. Check out their calendar before visiting, though, since some of the more lively events take over most or all of this small space. Embolden Beer Company Embolden Beer Company shares its space with sister company New Motion Beverages, so the tap list is one part beer, one part sparkling alcoholic beverages. The taproom itself is a big space with plants, turf, and lots of indoor and outdoor seating. They’ve had random vendors inside when I visited selling snacks and coffee, so there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Koobrew Koobrew is brand new! Open as of late 2025, Koobrew’s found Koo Miyake comes from Boochcraft and Cutwater, two San Diego classics. Everything about Koobrew feels very Japanese-inspired, from the decor to the beer. The spot is literally right next door to Pure Project, so I recommend checking out both in one visit. Protector Brewery Protector Brewery is owned by veterans, and the brewery is USDA-certified organic. Everything here is vegan-friendly and domestically sourced, and the brewery regularly partners with organizations that support veterans. It’s not a very big taproom, there’s no kitchen, and hours are limited, so if you want to check this spot out, plan accordingly. As far as I know, this is the most up-to-date list available. But, of course, if I missed a spot, please leave a comment below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Honorable Mentions The “Honorable Mentions” category is usually where I mention some places that are great, but didn’t quite make my list. However, since every brewery in Miramar is on this list, the Honorable Mentions will be a little different.

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Chilean Craft Beer: Modern Takes on Classic Styles

Thomas Short — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 18:06:36 +0000

A while ago, I wrote about some of the beers you can (and should) try when visiting Chile and Peru. That article mostly covered beers like Cusquena or Kunstmann Lager, the sorts of beers you can find at most restaurants or stores. But today, I explore four Chilean craft beers from various breweries. Chilean Craft Beer: Some Background For any of my American readers (I’m pretty sure that’s most of you), craft beer is not the same around the world as it is here in the States. You can’t throw a rock without hitting a craft beer in the U.S. But in other countries, like Japan or Chile, craft beer is not as common. That’s not to say it doesn’t exist or thrive, but that it’s just not on the same scale or level as it is in the States. The more craft beer I try in other countries, the more I come to appreciate local flavors and ingredients that make the beer. You can’t make an honest-to-goodness Heady Topper in Chile, and you can’t produce the Juster NU-B in the United States. 4 Chilean Craft Beers, Reviewed On to the main event. I have four beers to review, each a different style and from a different brewery. These were gifted to me in a box from Tierra Cervecera. This isn’t a plug, just a way you can find some of these beers, too. IRA – Cervezería Granizo First is the IRA from Cervecería Granizo located in Quilpue, Chile. IRA, in this instance, stands for “India Red Ale,” and it stands at a stout 7.0% ABV. As you might expect with any sort of red ale, this beer was pretty malty for an IPA. The can told me I was going to get caramel notes and rose aroma, but I mostly got that malty sweetness that comes with high ABV sluggers. I respect breweries that do red ales, but I’m pretty picky with the ones I like. My concern when I try red ales like this is that the brewery is the type of place that pushes ABV higher and higher for the sake of it. I won’t make any assumptions about Granizo, but you know if this is the type of beer for you. Hazy Pale Ale/NEPA – Cervezería Jester What’s there to say about a hazy pale ale? NU-B by Jester was a clean, 5.2% ABV hazy pale ale that pretty much hit the profile right on the nose. As the can claimed, the beer was hoppy without being offensive (if your pale ale is offensive, then you’ve probably done something wrong). The can also noted that the beer was very easy to drink, and I agree with that. Jester is located in the northern part of Santiago, which kind of dashes most of my hopes of visiting. I know NEPAs aren’t the most difficult style to make, but this one was done flawlessly, and it makes me want to try some of their other brews. Stout – Cerveza Cuello Negro Cuello Negro is based in Valdivia, which I understand to be a beer drinker’s destination in Chile. While the logo clearly shows a black swan, some sites translate this to “Black Cock,” so you know, look out for that. The Stout Foreign Extra (foreign extra stout, if you didn’t piece that together) was everything you’d expect from a foreign extra stout – low IBU, great gravity, and a “keeps you warm in the winter” 8.0% ABV. The brew featured delicious, sweet flavors from the oats and malts, and drinking it felt like putting on a warm blanket. This was the perfect beer for winter, though I expect it’s not as fun to drink in the sun. Helles Lager – Alameda Beer Co View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) I have a lot say about “Como Jurgen por su Hausen.” From Alameda Beer Co, based in what looks like a pretty lively part of Santiago, Jurgen is a helles lager, and it’s a pretty tasty one at that. Now let’s talk about the name. Como Jurgen por su Hausen is both a mishmash of Spanish and German AND an idiom. “Como Pedro por su casa,” which translates to “like Pedro in his own home,” meaning someone who is too comfortable. This can be a positive or negative connotation, but basically, it’s when someone acts as if they live there, when they don’t. So, we take this idiom and Germanify it with “Jurgen” and “Hausen” which is fun because then the beer name rhymes. Not sure if there’s anything to it beyond that. Just a fun beer name.

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The Beers of Bandon Dunes

Thomas Short — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 03:24:12 +0000

I recently had the absolute pleasure of getting to play golf at Bandon Dunes. As some readers may know, I love golf, and I love beer. I even wrote about the best beers to drink on a golf course. What I didn’t know about Bandon Dunes (and what I can hardly find anything about) is that Hop Valley brews not one, not two, but THREE beers for Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. Yes, there were plenty of good beers available, ranging from tougher finds like Pliny the Elder to more ubiquitous NW beers like Fresh Haze IPA from Deschutes. But this article will focus on the beer unique to the course. So ya, here are the beers of Bandon Dunes. Ghost Tree Hazy IPA View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) I’m leading with Ghost Tree because this seemed to be the easiest beer to find (at least in canned form). Ghost Tree is a clean hazy IPA that doesn’t surprise at first glance with a 7% ABV and an IBU of 42, relatively low for an IPA. But wow, when most hazy beers feel heavy, Ghost Tree has a lightness to it that you don’t find with most hazys. This made it an absolutely crushable beer on the links, even though you have to walk literally everywhere. An ode to the Ghost Tree on Old Macdonald, this is worth a try. If you prefer not to ruin your golf round by drinking, have one outside the Ghost Tree Grill right by 18. Sheep Ranch Lager If I could bring any of these beers home with me, it would be the Sheep Ranch Lager. Sheep Ranch Lager is light, crisp, and inoffensive in pretty much every way. This beer paired best with Punch Bowl, the silly putting course at Bandon that encourages you to try the goofiest shots you can imagine (none of them work). If you’re fortunate enough to visit Bandon Dunes on a sunny day, this beer is going to pair best with the sunshine. Bandon Dunes Pale Ale I love pale ales, since they provide the flavor you might find in an IPA with a lower ABV and more lightness than its heavier kin. But the Bandon Dunes Pale Ale was…not remarkable? Not bad, but certainly not special, especially when you have myriad drink options available. Maybe this is my general meh on Hop Valley coming through, but the Bandon Dunes Pale Ale was nothing to right home about. Which is a shame, considering it should essentially be the flagship beer of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. All in All: Good Beer, Better Golf At risk of stating the obvious, don’t go all the way to Bandon Dunes just to try these beers. Maybe give them a try if you’re in Bandon, but I found other breweries I enjoyed more (Bandon Brewing Company, Seven Devils Brewery, to name a few). However, if you do find yourself golfing at Bandon Dunes, and you’re looking for a drink, and that drink is beer, well well well, I have three interesting recommendations for you.

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Beers In Hawaii: A Taste Of Aloha

Thomas Short — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 22:38:35 +0000

Who else travels hours away from home to try different craft breweries? Just me? In all seriousness, I use visiting other places as a convenient excuse to drink beer at as many craft breweries as possible. This time around I visited beautiful Honolulu in Hawaii which has a fast-growing craft brew scene. During our multi-hour beer trek across Honolulu, we ended up stopping by four local breweries. A few days later I checked out another. And I drank Kona Brewing beers pretty whenever I wanted beer, but I can do that on the mainland so I’ll exclude them from this review (no shade to Kona Brewing). Here are the highlights. Hana Koa Brewing The first stop was Hana Koa Brewing, an established brewery that claims to have 30 dinosaur toys hidden across their taproom. Unfortunately, some were hidden in a loft that we couldn’t visit due to COVID restrictions, but I suppose some things are more important than looking for miniature dinosaur figurines. Hana Koa Brewing is the perfect place to start (or stop) and beer excursion. Aside from their comprehensive food menu, Hana Koa featured about a dozen beers on tap. I started with the Rooftop, a nice pale ale that had a fuller flavor than its 5% ABV would indicate. I also tried the Surf Pup, a grapefruit Gose, solely because of the name. It was good. Hana Koa apparently does can releases too, so any Hazy IPA enthusiasts might want to check their upcoming releases before scheduling a visit. Lokahi Brewing View this post on Instagram A post shared by Short Brews Beer Blog (@shortbrews) Someone at Hana Koa recommended that we check out Lokahi Brewing, a new spot that opened just back in May. If you’ve visited a brand new brewery before, you might be thinking that everything on the menu: I’m pleased to let you know that Lokahi was surprisingly good for a young new brewery. I don’t normally recommend flights, but this is a brewery where a flight might be the best option. With your flight, I suggest trying the Black IPA and Macadamia Nut Brown Ale. Aloha Beer Co. It was dark and a Sunday evening when we got to Aloha Beer, but I have a hunch that this place gets really popular during the day. How can I tell, you ask? Because lots of people there had dogs. Due in part to the fact that I had been drinking beer all afternoon, I had the Queen St. Pils, which was exactly how you expect a Pilsner to be. I did try a sip of the Hop Lei IPA and regretted getting the Pils, because the IPA was definitely the way to go between the two. For non-beer lovers, Aloha Beer also had several cocktails on the menu, along with some different types of wine. Waikiki Brewing Maybe it was the jet lag. Maybe it was the 15,000 steps of beer hopping. Maybe it was the wrong beer. Whatever it was, Waikiki Brewing did not do it for me. The space was great (I went to the one right by Aloha Beer, with a similar size/vibe), and the people were nice. I even saw dogs at Waikiki Brewing. Unfortunately, the 808 Pale Ale tasted like malt in all the wrong ways. I love a malty beer, but this wasn’t it. Maybe I should have been skeptical when I saw the Jalapeno Amber Ale. Just thinking about that made me shudder. My friends tried Waikiki Brewing at other times and swore by their stuff. They called me a madman. A heretic. But if I can’t believe in myself, who will believe in me? Maui Brewing Don’t miss Maui Brewing. With its bitchin location in Waikiki, big menu, and range of beer options, this is the perfect place to shed your beer-aficionado persona you developed to impress your friends and — get this — enjoy beer. Maui Brewing isn’t on the scale of Kona Brewing, but the gist is similar: big brewery, lots of beers. It reminded me of Lagunitas in a lot of ways, in that it was a great spot with solid beers that won’t knock your socks off but won’t disappoint. Saying ‘Aloha’ To Hawaii When it’s hot and humid out, you’re sitting on the beach, and you’re realizing that your body burns a lot easier than you remembered, drinking beer doesn’t really become an all-day thing, or even an everyday thing. Barely even a thing, to be honest, since there are so many great cocktail bars across Honolulu and Waikiki. But let me leave you with some parting words: DO give the beer in Hawaii a try. The beer scene has transcended beyond the “tourists are here, they drink Sam Adams, right?” phase that so many cities feel trapped in. Hawaii has pride in its beer, too. You’d be hard-pressed to find a restaurant that isn’t serving either Kona or Maui Brewing beers, if not both. When you’re in Hawaii you want to feel like you’re in Hawaii, and Heineken doesn’t do that. Next time you’re in Hawaii, be sure to drink the beer.

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Outlander Brewery And Pub Tour

Thomas Short — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 20:00:00 +0000

Editor’s note: Big things are happening at Outlander! I’ll be updating this article with more information in the future. Until then, enjoy this peek into the past. The “Brewery Experience,” the way we interact with each other and drink beer at our favorite local spots, has changed a lot over the past year. It’s been a while since I waited in a long beer line, kids running around, people yelling and spewing particles all over the place like it’s 2019. I’ve also been lucky to get some more behind-the-scenes type looks at breweries, from quick little tours to chats with brewers about their styles, goals, and beer. Sometimes, dear reader, we encounter those serendipitous moments. Sometimes, we check out a brewery for the first time and get a quick lil tour, all in one spur-of-the-moment visit. Here’s a peek at Outlander Brewery and Pub, located in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood. Outlander: The Spot A few years back a friend told me about a brewery tucked inside an old, unassuming house in the Fremont neighborhood. And for a few years I kept saying, “hey I should go there.” So, years and a pandemic later I finally visited. Outlander Brewery and Pub’s location is perhaps as much a benefit as it is a drawback. Its old wooden house facade makes it nearly unnoticeable to people passing by who have busy agendas (people don’t typically wander around popular streets during a pandemic for no reason, folks). But the low-key nature of Outlander’s spot is what makes the experience special. No busy rooms, no super long lines, no kids running around. It’s the type of place that got me interested in craft breweries in the first place so many years ago. Of course, being in a pandemic, it’s worth noting that Outlander does have a large outdoor space tucked behind the building, though some indoor seating is available. What I found most interesting about Outlander’s location was the home’s old basement, now retrofitted into the brew floor. The small space limits Outlander’s production, but I think we can all agree that there’s a charm to small-scale operations. Outlander: The Brewery Outlander’s taplist consists of exactly what you’d expect from a smaller brewery: several classic styles, some spin beers with odd infusions, and a few brews that come completely out of left field. Being my first time at the spot, I was told to order the Honey Basil Ale – no real explanation needed on that. The beer was fine, though it left me wishing I could taste the basil a little more. Next, choosing to dive head-first into the small craft brewery experience, I ordered the peanut butter stout. Normally I avoid peanut butter stouts because I don’t like hangovers, but I figured “when in Outlander, do as the outlanders do.” Now for a word of caution: if you want to try different beers at a brewery or get a better idea of the brewery’s range, either order small pours or convince your drinking mate(s) to order something different. Like potluckers all bringing chips and dip to the party, my group failed to bring any diversity to the table. However, I can say that we all enjoyed the basil ale. Final Thoughts Look, I could get all preachy and tell you to support your local brewers (which of course you should). I could also mention in minute detail the steps Outlander, breweries, and I have taken to stay safe during a pandemic. I could even go out of my way to tell you that no, I didn’t drive home after drinking beer and was, instead, driven by my partner. If you take anything away from this article, take this: after nearly a year of doing pretty much the same thing every day, it’s good to try new things. It’s good to check out a new place, even if that place is in your backyard. I put off visiting Outlander for way too long, and I don’t really even know why. But I’m glad I finally went.

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