This past weekend, the hand model & I finally made it out to Ballast Point in Alamitos Bay. It's one of his favorite Craft Beers, offering quite a range of hoppy IPAs to newer light 'n fruity Wheat Ales and toasty Stouts.
Ballast Point started out as a small group of home brewers. Today, they have an impressive roster of over 85 Beers and 6 breweries – their newest being at Alamitos Bay and it is on point, literally.
It's a modern, vast space at the end of the bay, literally in the shape of a point. Walk inside and you're greeted by the main square bar and dining room with expansive views of the bay and Pacific Ocean. Along the window, there is a more intimate lounge seating area. To the left is a smaller bar and outside patio, complete with a game of corn-hole. Up top is a third bar with more lounge seating in front of floor to "ceiling" windows.
The whole place offers plenty of different sections great for parties. The crowd is upbeat and lively. And, the menu has plenty to snack on or make a meal out of.
The Grubdown:
- malty, roasted barley notes, The Commodore American Stout $7 16oz.
- yeasty pale ale, Brett Grunion $8 16oz.
- perfect, light 'n crisp summer ale, Sea Rose American Wheat $7 16oz.
- dig right in, melty nacho-cheesiness with big chunks of roasted peppers & medium spice, Queso Poblano & Tortilla Chips with Roasted Salsa $9
- fresh but a little dry and needed more sauce, Blackened Grilled Yellowtail Fish Tacos with Cajun Spice, Cotija Cheese, Lime, Salsa Fresca & Cilantro Crema $15 for 3
- made for the kids but big enough for grown-ups, Chicken Fingers with French Fries & Ranch Dressing
Ballast Point is definitely the best brewery my hand model has been to. There's hefty pours, great ocean views, and plenty of people & water sports activity watching, while you kick back with a phenomenal beer.
110 Marina Dr., Long Beach, CA 90803. 562-296-4470.
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