When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Gilman Brewing Company
Why Gilman Brewing Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Gilman Brewing Company, established in 2015 in West Berkeley, CA, stands out as a perfect gathering spot for friends seeking craft beer excellence and a welcoming atmosphere. Founded by seasoned brewers and veterinary orthopedic surgeons Sean Wells and Tim Sellmeyer, together with professional musician John Schuman, this brewery has deep roots in both expertise and community passion. Their flagship taproom is located in a beautifully renovated former automotive repair shop on bustling Gilman Street, right next to the legendary 924 Gilman music venue, infusing the space with a rich musical and cultural vibe. Guests can enjoy a rotating selection of 13 unique brews on draft, including award-winning Belgian Farmhouse ales, bold IPAs, and experimental seasonal styles. Alongside the beers, Gilman offers well-paired food options such as wood-fired pizzas, artisan cheese plates, paninis, and chicken dishes, making it ideal for casual meetups and celebrations alike. Their multiple taproom locations—including Daly City and Pleasanton—offer spacious seating indoors and on patios, creating inviting environments for both intimate gatherings and larger events. Moreover, the brewery’s hands-on approach and no-nonsense ethos foster a genuine, fun atmosphere that appeals to craft beer lovers looking for quality without pretense.
Here's what people think of Gilman Brewing Company
As of recent, Gilman Brewing Company holds a 4.6-star rating based on 332 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Gilman Brewing Company for its exceptional and diverse beer offerings, highlighting the quality and freshness of their farmhouse ales and IPAs. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly, relaxed atmosphere and the knowledgeable staff who genuinely care about the craft and customer experience. Positive reviews often mention the inviting taproom environment with comfortable seating and the variety of events hosted, making it a lively social hub. Furthermore, guests enjoy the thoughtfully curated food menu that complements the beers perfectly. On the other hand, some critical reviews note occasional wait times during peak hours and limited parking availability near the West Berkeley location. A few patrons have commented on the food prices being slightly higher than expected, though many feel the quality justifies the cost. Others desire more frequent special releases or expanded hours. Overall, the reviews underscore a strong reputation for quality and community spirit, with minor operational drawbacks that do not significantly detract from the overall positive experience. Gilman Brewing Company successfully balances award-winning, innovative brews with an accessible and enjoyable environment for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mary Newson
Went here for the first time with a friend from out of town, and it was the last time. The man taking orders was great at describing each of the beers on the menu, but wasn't super friendly. We got a flight, but it seemed like some of the beers tasted similar to others so we couldn't really tell them apart. In the middle of our conversation, we hear a leaf blower power up, and the server was blowing a single leaf out of the main room. Everyone had to stop their conversations because the blower was so loud. An hour before closing, we got the feeling that we should scoot out the door, like we were overstaying our welcome. There are other Breweries that are more welcoming, so we'll head to those.
Colin Long
Love gilman’s programming and beer. Their menu (and hours sometimes) are not available online. I wish they consistently had a vegan option. The Joyride pizza before was fantastic, and now they don’t have anything vegan sadly
Jarred Capellman
Found out about this brewery while at the SF Beer Week Gala event last Friday, so my wife and I did just that today. Outstanding brewery from the moment you walk in to the moment you leave. The beer selection is vast and delicious (actually had an IPA that I enjoyed, more of a Pilsner guy). The Detroit style pizza was amazing, my wife and I split the half Pepperoni Pizza (which comes in a full too, but for a snack the two slices were perfect size). Merchandise wise is great, good selection of shirts, a hoodie and a tacker. The atmosphere is laid back, music was at a nice volume and overall was just a nice place to go have a beer and chat with your significant other or friends. Shoutout to Andrea who was so nice to both my wife and I who had never been to the brewery before. Amazing brewery if you're in Berkeley, highly recommend.
CBC Brew
Possibly the best food vibe of the thee in the area given Detroit Style Pizza offerings. Brewers are caught in a paradigm of skill that is not to the level of Great Notion nor Fieldwork. Love the community of consumption and will quaff more and more onsite—glad your here just up your skills per batch.
Michael Demidenko
Gilman is a solid spot for Detroit style pizza & some brews. There is covered & uncovered seating outside & some indoor seating. Dogs are welcome inside & out. The pepperoni pizza is terrific—crispy pepperoni on top & crispy edge pieces. Reminds me of Prince Street Pizza in NYC. Several solid brew options, too. Multiple solid, juicy hazy IPA. Will be coming back.
How to reach Gilman Brewing Company
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Why rally at Gilman Brewing Company with your friends?
Gilman Brewing Company offers a uniquely inviting atmosphere that makes it an exceptional choice for gathering with friends or family. This brewery, with an impressive rating of 4.6 from over 300 reviews, is praised for delivering an experience that transcends typical craft beer venues. From the moment you step into Gilman Brewing Company, you are greeted with a welcoming environment where both beer aficionados and casual drinkers find something to celebrate. The combination of expertly crafted beers and a vibrant social atmosphere creates the perfect backdrop for strong connections and memorable evenings. Whether you are seeking a relaxed spot for casual conversation or a lively place to enjoy a group celebration, Gilman’s warm, inclusive vibe invites guests to linger and connect. Its welcoming staff and a variety of beverage options ensure that everyone in your group feels catered to, enhancing the communal spirit. With its perfect blend of quality drinks, inviting ambiance, and social facilitation, Gilman Brewing Company is an ideal rallying point for friends looking for more than just a bar.
What activities does Gilman Brewing Company offer for groups?
Gilman Brewing Company thoughtfully curates experiences beyond merely serving excellent craft beer, making it an excellent venue for group activities. The brewery showcases a robust lineup of beers that range from flavorful IPAs to smooth dark brews and saisons, ensuring that all palates are pleased. Beyond sampling their diverse beer selection, groups can enjoy games like cornhole, which offers a casual and engaging activity that encourages friendly competition and interaction among guests. The presence of both indoor and outdoor seating areas allows groups to tailor their experience to their preference, whether that’s enjoying the bustling indoor scene or relaxing in the fresh air while sipping on their drinks. Gilman also embraces inclusivity through dog-friendly policies, meaning your furry friends can accompany your group without hassle. Moreover, for those wanting to complement their beer with food, the brewery serves wood-fired pizzas and snacks, with a notable commitment to vegan options, including vegan pizza choices that cater to diverse dietary needs. All these activities and amenities collectively create an engaging, fun-filled experience perfect for any social gathering, be it a casual catch-up or a celebrated reunion.
Why is Gilman Brewing Company perfect for group meetups?
Gilman Brewing Company’s combination of ambiance, amenities, and location makes it exceptionally well-suited for group meetups. Its cozy yet lively taproom offers spaces conducive to conversation and connection, from intimate table arrangements to communal seating that encourages mingling. The brewery’s strategic location next to the iconic 924 Gilman music venue in West Berkeley provides cultural synergy that attracts a vibrant, music-loving crowd, enhancing the social experience. Accessibility is another highlight, with outdoor seating and wheelchair access ensuring that all friends and family members can enjoy their visit comfortably. Additionally, Gilman’s business hours — generous weekend and weekday evening openings — enable flexible scheduling for groups with varied availability. The attentive staff adds an extra layer of hospitality, making sure every member of a group feels welcome and well-served. With its reputation for quality beers and tasty bites, combined with the unique social vibe, Gilman Brewing Company stands out as a hospitable and dynamic setting tailored to host memorable gatherings among friends and family.
What makes the food and drink options at Gilman Brewing Company stand out?
The quality and variety of food and drink options at Gilman Brewing Company significantly contribute to its appeal as a perfect meetup spot. The brewery’s flagship offerings include an excellent range of craft beers that showcase the brewers’ skill — from highly praised IPAs to seasonal farmhouse ales, there is no shortage of flavor and depth for beer lovers. Reviewers frequently mention standout brews like “Antifreeze,” a hazy, juicy IPA that is smooth and remarkably refreshing. Alongside these beverages, Gilman serves wood-fired pizzas crafted in Detroit style, including carefully prepared vegan options with vegan cheese, underscoring its commitment to accommodate diverse dietary preferences. Snacks and plates complement the beers well, making dining an experience in its own right. These thoughtfully curated food and beverage options ensure a harmonious tasting journey, allowing guests to enjoy well-paired meals and drinks in a comfortable and friendly environment, amplifying the social and sensory delight of a group meetup.
How does the environment at Gilman Brewing Company enhance the social experience?
The environment at Gilman Brewing Company is carefully designed to foster engagement and relaxation, key ingredients for a successful group outing. Its distinctive “garage door” style layout offers an airy, open feeling that blurs the boundary between indoors and outdoors, creating a dynamic space where guests can enjoy watching the world pass by while seated comfortably. This design contributes to a casual, approachable vibe where groups can feel free to chat, laugh, and enjoy their time without pretense. The brewery's dog-friendly policy adds a layer of inclusivity and warmth that many patrons appreciate, allowing group members to bring pets along and enjoy a more home-like atmosphere. Whether seated around games like cornhole or at communal tables sharing stories, the space encourages interaction and connection, making it easy for friends and family to bond. Ambient music, combined with the lively energy from both locals and visitors, further elevates the social mood, setting a perfect scene for creating shared memories in a relaxed yet vibrant setting.
What are the practical details to know before planning a visit with a group?
When planning your meetup at Gilman Brewing Company, several practical considerations will enhance your experience. Located in West Berkeley and also with a taproom in Pleasanton, the brewery provides options depending on your gathering’s location preferences. The West Berkeley venue typically operates from midday into the evening, with weekday hours from noon to 9-10pm depending on the day, and similar evening hours for its Pleasanton speakeasy location starting mid-afternoon. Parking is mostly street-based and limited, so carpooling or using ride services is advisable for larger groups. The brewery accepts credit cards, making group payments convenient and hassle-free. Additionally, accessibility accommodations such as wheelchair access and ample outdoor seating ensure inclusivity. Given its popularity and tight parking situation, especially on weekends, renting the space for private events or arriving early is recommended to secure your preferred seating for larger groups. These operational details, when considered ahead of time, help ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and well-organized experience for all attendees.
How can hosting your event at Gilman Brewing Company create lasting memories?
Hosting your event or gathering at Gilman Brewing Company offers more than just good food and drink; it provides a complete sensory and social experience that fosters lasting memories. The atmosphere’s perfect blend of rustic charm, modern brewery aesthetics, and lively ambiance encourages guests to relax and engage fully with the environment and each other. Whether your meetup involves catching up over expertly brewed ales, playing fun group games, or savoring delicious vegan-friendly pizzas, the shared moments become memorable. Moreover, the brewery’s location next to cultural hubs and its dog-friendly policy add layers of delight and uniqueness to your gathering that few venues can match. Groups leave Gilman not just satisfied by the culinary and beverage offerings but uplifted by the warm, communal experience — a foundation for stories and friendships long after the visit. These qualities make Gilman Brewing Company a premier choice for meaningful get-togethers that blend great hospitality with a genuinely welcoming spirit.