When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge
Why Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge offers a unique social experience in the heart of the Lorin District, South Berkeley. This welcoming venue is celebrated for its commitment to "craft beer for the masses," providing a diverse selection of locally brewed beers produced at their off-site 7-barrel brewery in Oakland. Visitors can savor a rotating variety of styles, including IPAs, Tripels, coffee porters, and Belgian blondes, catering to a broad audience of beer lovers. Complementing the craft beer are thoughtfully curated selections of West Coast ciders and wines, ensuring options for different tastes. The taproom doubles as a beat lounge, creating a vibrant ambiance where quality music meets quality brews, making it an ideal hangout spot for friends to gather. Whether seated indoors or soaking up the atmosphere in their outdoor seating area, guests enjoy a relaxed and inviting neighborhood gathering space where good beer and chill vibes come together. The establishment's hours run well into the night, with a typical schedule from late afternoon until midnight or later on weekends, supporting both casual after-work meetups and lively late-night sessions. With a solid 4.7 rating from 239 reviews, Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge stands out as a cultural and social hub for craft beer enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Here's what people think of Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge
As of recent, Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge holds a 4.7-star rating based on 239 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight the quality and variety of Hoi Polloi's in-house beers, praising the brewery for its flavorful IPAs, robust porters, and well-crafted Belgian styles. Positive feedback emphasizes the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, the comfortable indoor-outdoor seating, and the unique blend of a brewery with a beat lounge, where guests can enjoy curated music alongside their drinks. Visitors appreciate the thoughtful selection of wines and ciders that complement the beer offerings, as well as amenities like free truffle popcorn that enhance the experience. The sense of community and the neighborhood vibe are also frequently mentioned as key strengths. On the other hand, some negative comments focus on occasional issues such as limited food options since it is primarily a brewery and taproom that encourages bringing your own food, as well as moments of crowding during peak hours which can affect seating availability. However, these concerns are relatively minor and do not overshadow the overall positive impression. In conclusion, the reviews collectively affirm Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge as a beloved destination for craft beer and socializing, with a welcoming environment and quality offerings that attract a loyal clientele.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
James Dress
Super chill brewpub with excellent beers and ciders and great outdoor space. People and dogs friendly, and Hercules Records just across the way. Perfect place for a point with the pup.
Larry Ladd
Nice counterculture vibe and truffle popcorn with tasty libations. Enjoyed the women’s day IPA and chatted with the labradoodle named Tucker for a bit. Pleasant people here as it is a neighborhood brew place. Che Guevara Argentinian image on the wall—if your near give it a brew stop.
Martha Baeli
Have loved this craft beer spot for years and stop by whenever we're in the area. Honestly can't believe I've never left a review. Service is great, beer is on point, truffle popcorn is a real bonus, enjoy the parklet and the heaters on a cooler day, and #EasyCreole restaurant next door rounds out the experience. Highly recommend.
Samuel Noble
Was looking for a late night brewery open after landing at Oakland airport. Google says they close at midnight on Wednesday but I just made it for last call at 11:00. Must of been a slow night. Had a West coast IPA and bought a mixed four pack of west coast and hazy to take away. The guys behind the bar gave me a good recommendation to a taco truck in Oakland so hit that up next.
Eugene
Excellent music choice (Joy Division, The Cure and post-punk) open until 1AM, cozy
How to reach Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge
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Website: None
Why rally at Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge in Berkeley offers an ideal blend of vibrant atmosphere, quality craft beverages, and a welcoming space designed for social connection. This venue stands out because it combines locally brewed craft beer with carefully selected wines and ciders, making it easy to satisfy diverse tastes within your group. The location in the Lorin District of South Berkeley has an approachable neighborhood vibe that encourages relaxation and easy conversation. Whether you are catching up after a long week or celebrating a special occasion, its casual yet dynamic environment invites everyone to linger and enjoy. With a solid 4.7 rating from 239 reviews, it has proven to be a dependable favorite for those who appreciate good drink, good music, and great company. The extended hours from early afternoon well into the night give your flexible timing options whether you want a lively evening or a chill session. Hoi Polloi’s commitment to community and quality means your meetup is not just a gathering—it’s a shared experience that feels special and inclusive.
What activities make Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge perfect for group meetups?
Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge offers a variety of activities that cater wonderfully to group meetups, providing entertainment and engagement beyond just enjoying drinks. First, the taproom itself is designed to foster conviviality with ample indoor and outdoor seating where groups can comfortably gather and socialize. The taproom features a rotating selection of craft beers brewed off-site in their 7-barrel brewery in Oakland, alongside a curated collection of quality West Coast wines and ciders, ensuring there’s always something new to try and discuss. Music plays a pivotal role here—true to its name “Beat Lounge,” Hoi Polloi regularly hosts chill beats, creating an inviting soundtrack that complements the relaxed yet upbeat vibe. This musical ambiance enhances conversation without overwhelming it. Moreover, the venue often features local DJs or live musical events, giving visitors the option to combine their social time with live entertainment. The venue is also community-focused, sometimes providing a platform for local artists or thematic events that encourage group interaction and exploration. These varied options make it easy for groups to tailor their visit, whether they want a quiet place to catch up over drinks or a lively spot to enjoy music and dance.
What is the beer and beverage selection like at Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge?
The beverage selection at Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge is a key reason why it’s such a good place for a meetup. Their core offering consists of a diverse array of craft beers brewed in their off-site 7-barrel facility in Oakland. This setup allows them to experiment and produce a wide range of beer styles, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, satisfying various palates in a group. The rotating nature of their taps means patrons can constantly discover new brews rather than drinking the same options all the time, which is ideal for groups that appreciate variety and sharing tasting notes. In addition to beers, the taproom offers a carefully curated selection of wines and ciders. This ensures that guests who might not be beer fans still have high-quality alternatives to enjoy. The availability of 16oz cans, 4-packs, and bottles for pickup or delivery also adds convenience for those who want to extend the experience beyond the taproom. Overall, the beverage offerings are clearly designed to foster exploration and discussion among friends, enhancing the social atmosphere for meetups.
What makes the ambiance and location of Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge inviting for friends and family gatherings?
The ambiance at Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge is distinctive for its blend of relaxed neighborhood charm and lively, music-infused energy. Located in the Lorin District of South Berkeley, this taproom is nestled within a vibrant community setting that feels welcoming and comfortably unpretentious. The layout encourages mixing and mingling, with a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces allowing groups to find their preferred vibe. The outdoor seating is especially inviting on warm days, giving guests the chance to enjoy fresh air while conversing and sipping their drinks. Indoors, the music—whether background lounge beats or live sets—adds a dynamic layer without dominating the atmosphere, keeping the mood upbeat and engaging. The venue's dedication to fostering community means staff and patrons alike often engage in friendly interaction, making it feel like a local hub rather than just a typical bar. For family-friendly meetups, the environment is casual and safe enough for older youths or family groups who want a chill hangout spot. This combination of location, layout, and atmosphere creates a space where everyone in your party can feel comfortable and eager to return.
How do the business hours at Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge support group gatherings?
Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge offers extensive hours that provide flexibility for group gatherings at almost any time of day or night. The venue is open from Monday through Sunday with hours that generally start in the early to mid-afternoon—around 1pm to 4pm depending on the day—and extend late into the evening, sometimes up to 2am on weekends. These hours accommodate both early meetups, such as an afternoon celebration or casual after-work hangout, and late-night social sessions for those who want to enjoy a longer night out. The extended weekend hours are perfect for groups who want to start early and stay late without feeling rushed. Weekday hours support more laid-back gatherings after work or dinner, while Sundays close earlier, which suits more relaxed, wind-down occasions. This wide-ranging schedule means groups can plan visits that fit their own time preferences without forcing compromises, encouraging spontaneous meetups or planned events. Being open every day of the week makes it a reliable destination regardless of the size or timing of your social group.
Why is Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge a unique community space for diverse social groups?
Hoi Polloi Brewing Taproom and Beat Lounge thrives as a unique community space by embracing its name and philosophy, which centers on inclusivity and celebrating "hoi polloi"—the common people, or masses. This ethos is reflected in its welcoming atmosphere where people from all walks of life can come together over high-quality craft beverages and music. Unlike more exclusive or themed bars, it positions itself as a neighborhood gathering spot where diversity is embraced and celebrated. The venue’s programming, from curated drink selections to music and occasional cultural events, encourages social interaction that bridges gaps and brings people into the same space comfortably. Their focus on local craft brewing and community-driven events helps foster a sense of belonging and shared identity that resonates in group meetups and family gatherings alike. This makes it a particularly attractive spot for groups looking not just for a good night out but for a memorable experience that feels connected to its local roots. By combining quality products, artful ambiance, and community focus, Hoi Polloi stands out as a social hub with heart.