The Mission District of San Francisco is known for its outstanding Mexican food, but a new brewery is making its mark in this quintessential Bay Area neighborhood. What was once a 10,000-foot warehouse along a classic railroad line is now a thoughtfully renovated space that lets in plenty of light on those fogless Mission days: Southern Pacific Brewing. Southern Pacific Brewing — Photo courtesy of Tom Molanphy
Boor Bridges architects used re-purposed Douglas fir for much of the furniture, and part of the bar comes from a 120-year old Mendocino barn.
Although head brewmaster Andy French's discipline and love of his craft makes sampling the beers a must, inventive cocktails are also making a name for themselves at Southern Pacific Brewing, such as the Mission Stiff Margarita.
And nothing goes better with malted hops than salty fries or any number of the savory appetizers on the menu. Make a full night of it by enjoying head chef Noah Busto's bar staples, plus riskier offerings like coconut fried chicken wings or watermelon salad with arugula.
Southern Pacific Brewing — Photo courtesy of Tom Molanphy
Since it's opening in 2012, Southern Pacific has become a neighborhood hotspot for local businesses to meet and seal deals. If you want to get the sense of what the modern Mission feels like, head to Southern Pacific Brewing, where there's plenty of time and space for fine beer and good food.