Karl Strauss Brewing Co. announced the re-opening of its Downtown San Diego location after a comprehensive remodel. The original brewpub first opened in February 1989 as the city’s first post-prohibition brewery. The 4,900‑sq‑ft space now shines with modern updates and historic nods. The remodel took place in December and January. On October 1, 2023, the company acquired the property. From the press release:
“Taking ownership of our original downtown brewery is more than a business decision — it’s a declaration of who we are,” said Co-Founder Matt Rattner. “This is where we started San Diego’s craft beer movement in 1989 with the courage to build something new. The renovations reflect that same spirit — making the brewhouse the symbolic centerpiece showing that brewing is our core. Ownership and the new interior decor for this property lets us chart our future on our own terms, ensuring this home — our first brave step—will continue to inspire the next generation of craft beer lovers.”
Remodel changes
- A neon sign reading “We Launched this party”
- A refurbished bar with a new quartz bar top
- Custom metal and wood shelving in the bar backdrop
- The beer list moved above the taps for better visibility
- An awards wall displaying national and international medals
- Concrete‑textured paint replacing yellow Venetian plaster on the soffit
- Updated industrial lighting throughout the space
- A private events area with large glass entry doors (capacity for 30)
- A photo wall showcasing historical images
The brewpub also features a small seven‑barrel brewing system with two 14‑barrel fermenters for on‑site research and development.
Expanding the network
Karl Strauss now operates multiple locations in San Diego County. The company has brewpubs in Downtown San Diego, 4S Ranch, Carlsbad, and Sorrento Mesa. It also runs nine locations in Southern California. The latest addition opened at The Shops at Dos Lagos in Corona on October 1, 2024. The new brewpub features 16 taps with a mix of classic and seasonal beers, along with a menu that complements the brews.
The Outdoor Concept Taproom
Karl Strauss experimented with an outdoor concept taproom known as The OutPost at San Marcos. The taproom opened in November 2023. The venue offered a simple, fully outdoor beer experience. Challenges with the setup led to its closure on August 11, 2024. The test looked to provided valuable insights for future projects.
History and distribution
Founded in February 1989, Karl Strauss pioneered San Diego’s craft beer movement. The company has earned over 120 medals since 2009. It played a key role in shaping a thriving industry with thousands of independent breweries nationwide. Today, Karl Strauss distributes its beer in California, Arizona, and Nevada, reaching craft enthusiasts across the region. Karl Strauss’ core beers include Red Trolley Ale, Follow the Sun Lager, Tower X West Coast IPA, Boat Shoes Hazy IPA, and Aurora Hoppyalis IPA. Also available is the seasonal Golden Stout, which is brewed with coffee beans from La Jolla-based Bird Rock Coffee. The 7.5 percent alcohol-by-volume (ABV) beer won a Silver Medal at the 2024 World Beer Cup, the largest international beer competition often referred to as The Olympics of Beer Competitions.
Now, Karl Strauss Brewing Co. honors its legacy while embracing innovation. The re-imagined original location stands as a testament to its long‑standing influence and continued growth in American craft brewing. Congrats.
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