The highlight of the year in Tustin is the epic Chili Cook Off, and nothing epitomizes the city's small-town atmosphere better than the Tustin Brewery, which celebrates its 20th anniversary on Aug. 28. All proceeds are being donated to John Wayne Cancer Inst. in honor of owner, Jason Jeralds' father, Greg, who lost his battle to melanoma in 2004.
Tustin Brewery is the local spot to bring the kid's Little League team for pizza and wings, or test your trivia knowledge on Monday night. It gets packed with beer-loving nerds, so arrive early! Taco Tuesday offers more than just tacos; a menu of burritos, nachos, carnitas plate, quesadillas and $4 Rock Margaritas to wash it down. Ajua!
The food pairs well with the award winning craft beer. Burgers, sandwiches, salads and entrees are all mouth watering plates of deliciousness. Breakfast is served only during football season and like everything else it's down home good!
In 2009 Tustin Brewery won a Gold Medal for its Golden Spike Light Ale at the Great American Beer Festival, the premier beer competition in the United States. In 2010 they won a Bronze Medal at GABF for it's Blimp Hangar Porter. My favorite is the Redhill Red 7.3% ABV rich, malty, complex. Drink this with a juicy burger or steak! Medium rare. The American Pale Ale 5.8% ABV smooth, mild hops, full flavored balanced with slight maltiness. A classic pale ale to enjoy with the spicy hot wings or the braised short rib tacos.
VIP tickets are sold out but there are still plenty of General Admission tix for $40. Unlike the past Anniversary Parties this year's event, held from 11-4 pm, will be in the parking lot, so it will be Bigger and Better! But not Bitter!
Tustin Brewery is located at 13011 Newport Ave, Ste. 100, Tustin, CA 92780 714-665-2337.
