When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant
Why Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz presents a dynamic brewpub and gastropub experience right in the heart of Midtown Santa Cruz. Known for its impressive lineup of award-winning craft beers, this lively taproom is an excellent spot to gather with friends and enjoy an exceptional range of styles, including New England IPAs, farmhouse ales, crisp lagers, and flavorful stouts. The diverse beer menu features unique brews like ‘Fell On Black Haze’ (New England Hazy IPA), ‘Champ Rochaux’ (Farmhouse Saison), and the bold ‘Banjo Cat’ Imperial IPA, appealing to both craft beer novices and seasoned enthusiasts.
The venue offers a welcoming and casual atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating options, perfect for relaxed socializing or lively gatherings. Alongside the beers, Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz serves up delicious food that complements the brews, including standout sandwiches such as the Cubano and Reuben, highly praised by patrons. Open throughout the week with extended hours on weekends, it’s a convenient destination for after-work drinks, weekend meetups, or casual dining.
With a strong focus on quality and local community engagement, Gilman Brewing also participates in local events like the Hop N' Barley Festival, further establishing its reputation as a cornerstone of Santa Cruz’s vibrant craft beer scene.
Here's what people think of Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant
As of recent, Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant holds a 4.3-star rating based on 68 reviews.
Customer reviews of Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz reflect a generally positive experience, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from around 68 reviews. Reviewers frequently highlight the variety and quality of the beers on tap, praising the creativity and robust flavors of their IPAs, saisons, and lagers. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, often noted for their attentiveness, contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. Patrons appreciate both the indoor comfort and the outdoor seating, which is especially enjoyable during warmer months.
Positive reviews emphasize the excellent food offerings, notably the Cubano and Reuben sandwiches, which many found perfectly paired with the wide selection of craft beers. The ambiance is described as lively yet relaxed, making it an ideal spot for socializing with friends or enjoying a casual meal. Positive feedback consistently mentions the community feel and the brewery’s commitment to quality and local events.
On the other hand, some negative reviews touch on aspects like occasional limitations in beer sampling options and a desire for more frequent happy hour deals or free tastings. A few visitors noted that at times the space can feel a bit crowded, especially during peak hours. Despite these minor critiques, most visitors express enthusiasm for returning due to the high-quality beers and food.
Overall, the reviews paint Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz as a vibrant and well-loved brewpub and gastropub, balancing excellent craft beer selection, tasty food, and a friendly environment that attracts a diverse crowd of beer aficionados and casual visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Debbie Pieracci
Well it was a new place so had to try. Service was very nice people. Seating in side was plenty. Was not till later saw the side outside seating which might have been a little more fun even though your view is a car dealership. Food was ok. Fries were good, little pricey. Pizza had a good crust but fir the price only 5 shrimp on whole pizza. The pepperoni one was very greasy. Ok the beer, oh no. I did 2 + flights with my friends of all different ones. I only could drink 2 out of 15. Not sure if they make there. It might help if they put a discussion of the taste or type of beer besides just the name. Interesting names- frog on a bicycle, dad's pants, swamp and others tell it all. Sorry. Ok update it's been a while so 8 decided to try again. Staff as always was really personable. Had a dark beer Fell on Black that was really good. We had the smash burger and another special burger time. Both were good , smash was better. Thank you Aaron and Coa!
Mayra Carranco (Mai)
Atmosphere was mellow. The food was good. Fair warning, the Nashville Chicken definitely has a kick. The brews are also super good. Highly recommend Dog on Bicycle and Cat in Space, both IPAs.
H-Pop Local Guide
Gilman Brew Pub is a good newly renovated space in the Whole Foods parking lot in Midtown. The New hours open every day made me change my original grocery shopping plans I had that day. ;) Great variety of Fresh brew & food selections. I ordered the Crispy Chicken Sandwich with fries. Gilman is a nice addition to the neighborhood. Tons of free parking in parking lot will be a popular location for regulars. The combo was delish.
Bonnie Tucker
Nice, clean and good service. Wish the menu was more complex. I had the pretzel and lovely green olives with my Solomente Uno amber beer. My pup was happy to be included.
Lawrence S
Had the silliest experience. The service was decent and the beer was ok, but I guess the staff didn't know we were on the back patio and they turned the lights off and locked us in. So we had to hop the fence to get out. Another run of the mill brewery on first blush. Coming from Sante down the street it's quite a step down in beer quality and vibe but it's always great to have a new spot, and they just opened so I imagine they are figuring out the kinks and I expect this location to improve with time. I would start with not locking customers in back patio jail. Sometimes I feel like my life is a sitcom.
How to reach Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant
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Why rally at Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant with your friends?
When it comes to gathering with friends or family in Santa Cruz, Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant stands out as an excellent destination. This establishment delivers the perfect blend of craft beer culture, inviting atmosphere, and delectable food offerings, which makes it an even more compelling choice for group meetups. The brewery is known for its approachable vibe — it’s a place where everyone can feel comfortable, whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or just someone who enjoys a relaxed social scene. Its 4.3-star rating from 68 reviews testifies to consistent quality and customer satisfaction, making it a trustworthy spot for hosting your next get-together. Furthermore, Gilman Brewing is one of the few locally beloved breweries with a Santa Cruz location that boasts an in-house kitchen helmed by an accomplished chef, Gavin Braid, who has brought fine dining sensibilities to casual pub fare. This means guests can expect more than just average bar snacks; instead, you get elevated dishes that perfectly complement the crafted beers on tap. The combination of exceptional beer, quality food, and a welcoming environment positions Gilman Brewing as an ideal social hub — perfect whether you want to celebrate a milestone, unwind after a busy week, or simply enjoy good company.
What activities can you enjoy at Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant?
Gilman Brewing offers more than just eating and drinking — it’s designed for engaging experiences that enhance any social gathering. First, the brewery provides a diverse and expertly brewed selection of craft beers, including porters, stouts, lagers, pale ales, and IPAs. For friends who appreciate the craft behind a drink, the variety means there’s something for everyone to enjoy and explore together. The indoor and outdoor seating options, including a popular “garage door” style space where you can sip your brews while people-watching, ensure comfort whatever the weather or the mood. Outdoor heaters make chilly Santa Cruz evenings cozy, so you’re covered year-round. In addition to savoring beers, group activities may include sampling the kitchen’s specialties: wood-fired margherita pizzas, smash burgers with just the right balance of savory flavors, and uniquely spiced chicken wings with a zesty gochujang aioli dip. These shareable plates encourage communal dining and create lively conversation starters.
Why is Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz perfect for group meetups?
The layout and atmosphere of Gilman Brewing’s Santa Cruz location encourage camaraderie and socializing, making it especially suitable for groups. The space offers both large tables for bigger parties and smaller seating niches for more intimate gatherings, catering flexibly to different group sizes. Its open-concept taproom means there’s plenty of room for movement and mingling, and the friendly, attentive staff contributes to a stress-free visit, ensuring that service flows smoothly for everyone from the first round to dessert. The venue’s environment strikes a balance between casual and trendy – it feels like a local neighborhood spot but boasts upscale touches through quality food and well-crafted beers. Regular patrons often comment on the welcoming vibe and how the staff knows how to strike the right tone between professionalism and friendliness. That balance ensures groups feel comfortable whether meeting for a casual afternoon or a spirited evening.
What dining options does Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz offer to please a crowd?
Gilman Brewing’s Santa Cruz menu, guided by Chef Gavin Braid’s expertise, elevates simple gastropub fare into a culinary highlight for any gathering. Friends or families looking to share food will appreciate the well-crafted dishes made to complement the brewery’s beer selection. The smash burger is a crowd favorite, featuring a thin juicy patty topped with melted cheese and crisp lettuce served on a soft potato bun – a classic made extraordinary. For those who prefer vegetarian or lighter options, the wood-fired margherita pizza is a must-try, boasting a perfect balance of char, fresh basil, and rich mozzarella. The chicken wings offer an adventurous twist with their infusion of ginger and Szechuan peppercorn spices paired with a sweet and funky gochujang aioli sauce, offering subtle heat and a complex flavor profile without overwhelming spice. These dishes not only satisfy a hunger for good food but also provide ideal sharable options that encourage camaraderie around the table.
What makes the beer selection at Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz stand out for meetups?
Gilman Brewing’s reputation as a craft brewery comes from its commitment to quality and variety, making it a destination for beer lovers who want to taste something special in a friendly setting. Their beers range from robust porters and stouts to crisp lagers and innovative IPAs. The brewery’s flagship beers hold consistent quality, and seasonal or limited releases add interest that can spark enthusiastic conversation in group settings. Fans of less conventional beer styles also find themselves pleased here, as the brews balance innovation with drinkability. Whether your group prefers trying flavor-forward brews with fruity or spicy notes or sticking with balanced, traditional beer styles, the wide range covers all preferences. The knowledgeable bartenders enhance the experience by offering recommendations based on taste, ensuring that group members can explore new favorites together confidently.
Are there special events or features at Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz that enhance social gatherings?
Beyond the regular dining and drinking experience, Gilman Brewing frequently hosts events that make group meetups even more memorable. These can include weekly specials, brewery tours, live music, trivia nights, and beer release celebrations that infuse energy and provide focal points for groups. The brewery actively fosters a community atmosphere where patrons feel like part of something bigger, not just another pub. For groups seeking unique entertainment alongside their food and drinks, such curated events offer both fun and bonding opportunities. Outdoor seating and fire pits during certain seasons allow for cozy conversations long after sunset, while the brewery’s open layout invites casual mingling and new connections. Additionally, the venue’s commitment to customer safety and comfort through service and amenities ensures that group events proceed smoothly, whether an informal catch-up or a special occasion.
How accessible and convenient is Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz for bringing friends and family together?
Located at 817 Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz, Gilman Brewing is easily reachable from most parts of the city, making it a convenient meetup spot. The location is popular yet laid-back enough to avoid the hassles of overcrowded centers, providing ample parking options nearby. The venue’s thoughtful design includes ample seating arrangements for different group sizes, and its open hours from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday provide flexibility for daytime brunches or evening hangouts. The taproom accepts to-go orders as well for groups who may want to extend the social experience elsewhere. Accessibility for all guests, including those with mobility considerations, has been factored into the venue’s layout, helping everyone feel welcome and comfortable. Friendly staff and a positive community atmosphere round out the convenient experience.
Why do customers rate Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz so highly for group outings?
With a solid 4.3-star rating based on 68 reviews, Gilman Brewing’s Santa Cruz location has received acclaim for its quality brews, excellent food, and welcoming vibe – all vital for successful gatherings. Guests repeatedly praise the balance of professional kitchen offerings and approachable pub environment, highlighting the smash burger and wood-fired pizza as standout dishes that make food an event itself. Reviewers also note the variety of beers and the pleasant indoor/outdoor seating that caters well to groups. Friendly staff and a comfortable atmosphere get positive mention, with many visitors stating they choose Gilman Brewing because it feels like a local gem without the attitude sometimes associated with craft brewery culture. This positive reputation ensures new groups can expect a reliably enjoyable experience, making it a trusted recommendation for anyone looking to host a casual but memorable outing with friends or family.
In summary, Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant combines quality craft beers, elevated yet approachable food, a flexible and welcoming setting, and engaging experiences that make it perfect for meetups with friends or family. Its location, ambiance, and customer-focused service create the kind of environment where social bonds grow stronger over shared tastes and good times. Whether it’s a casual weekday hangout, a weekend celebration, or a special event, Gilman Brewing offers all the elements that turn a normal night out into a memorable occasion.