Tap It produces all of their unique brews on site. Visitors at the bar can see through to the production equipment.

Go where the locals go

–On any given night at Tap It Brewing, you are liable to see San Luis Obispans in their native habitat. The location of Tap It is tucked away amongst local businesses, and there is a, “place to go where everybody knows your name,” kinda vibe between the friendly and engaging staff and their loyal following.

In the outdoor area, a tricked out jeep and old rally car perched atop c-train shipping containers are part of the decor

Success comes with passion

Tap It started as a passion for homebrewers John and Miles Gordon. The two are also car enthusiasts and used to sponsor a Jim Dunn Top Fuel Funny Car. The clues to their fused passions are on display in the outdoor area, where a tricked out jeep and old rally car perched atop c-train shipping containers are part of the decor. The overall feel of the unique establishment is like a, “very well put together garage,” as Katelyn Egger, the events, marketing, and tasting room manager puts it – and it should be, as it started as the Gordons’ auto shop. “We had the space, why not put it to use?” said Miles.

Sometimes a product is so good, that it pretty much sells itself, and that seems to be what happened at Tap It. The beers that the Gordons were crafting were so delicious, and the ambiance of their brewery so unique, that the business has boomed, despite it’s rather tucked away location. For those coming from downtown San Luis Obispo, the brewery sponsors a free shuttle on select evenings.

Tap It hosts local artists every Friday night, as well as special events such as themed parties.

Keeping it local

Tap It pays homage to the area in a variety of ways, such as one of their flagship beers, the Ale Camino, named after El Camino Real, the historic route 101 which runs along the California Central Coast. Tap It is located just off this historic route. The brew is an American style amber ale with a malty kick and a hint of chocolate.

Their Hop Farm series is sourced using locally grown hops. Each year fresh hops are harvested during fall from Vinland Farms, located in nearby Edna Valley, which are then used to create unique one-off beers.

They showcase local music also. Tap It hosts local artists every Friday night, as well as special events such as themed parties. Their surprisingly spacious outdoor area with a stage, fire pit, and unique beer-barrel tables set the stage perfectly for a night of laid back fun.

Their surprisingly spacious outdoor area with a stage, fire pit, and unique beer-barrel tables set the stage perfectly for a night of laid back fun.

Looking ahead

There’s a great sense of excitement in the air right now for the crew at Tap It. Egger is working on booking bigger and more well known artists for concerts, and Miles said they are looking forward to continued distribution throughout California and looking to expand into Nevada for 2016, along with international sales. “It is important for us to stay focused on the quality and creativeness of the beers,” said Miles “and of course have fun doing it!”

Tap It Brewing is located at 675 Clarion Court in San Luis Obispo. Their hours are Sunday-Wednesday 12-7 p.m., and Friday-Sunday 12-9 p.m. For more information call (805) 545-7702, or visit www.tapitbrewing.com.

–Skye Ravy