Black Hammer Brewery

Nestled in between 4th and 3rd street on Bryant in Soma is a little brewery making big beer moves. Black Hammer Brewery boasts a line of brews on tap ranging from IPA’s, Ale’s, Pilsner’s, Boc’s and Sour’s. If you have a favorite beer the hospitable bartenders will introduce you to its hotter, more fun sibling. I enjoy going there to write, in fact they have an entire row of stools along one of the art filled walls for those that need to get things done, but also want to drink in public whilst doing so. I usually hog a seat at the bar itself. Preferably (Giant’s game willing), I snag a seat next to their large street facing windows. On a warm day the glassed lined garage door style walls are up, letting in the sun and opening up the space. The bar and communal picnic length tables are made from reclaimed wood, as is a low square table with leather seats that is usually occupied by Growler, a friendly, cuddly,  mohawked long eared pup who runs the roost.

I recently received a little tour of the back where the actual brewery is housed. Amongst the vats, kettles, and bags upon bags of barley I got a quick summary of what goes into creating a batch of beer. I sampled some of the barley that is added for flavor.  It was intriguing how these base ingredients that end up adding subtle notes to a finished product were so pronounced in their original form. I never put much thought into what goes into brewing and assumed any added flavor was artificial, like everything else we consume. One type of barley had a distinct nutty flavor the other straight cocoa, it was yummy and honestly pretty snack worthy, I’d totally add it to a bag of sunflower seeds kernels to make my own very specific trail mix.

The brewery doesn’t serve its own food, aside from soft pretzels and mustard, but you are free to bring in (or order in) your own. I have had many a postmate drop off a sandwich or pizza to fuel my creative session. As far as ambiance goes on a normal day the place is filled with the after work happy hour tech crowd. On games days if you’re a Giants fan get there early to snag a seat. If you’re not, don’t go at all, there is no room for you and you’ll be annoyed by the rambunctiousness. Save yourself the crowd anxiety and go back once the game starts and the fans have started their mass exodus down 3rd street to the ballpark.

If you are not a beer connoisseur don’t let the menu intimidate you. I’m not big on beer but I love

their Sparkle Pony, a Belgian Blonde that comes in at 6.7 % ABV . Its light, refreshing and has a great name.

I thoroughly enjoy this place for its laid back vibe and variety. I used to bring my tinder dates here and it was the perfect setting. Low, but not too low lighting, great music playing in the background, and zero judgement from the staff.

At the moment Black Hammer Brewery can be found served sporadically at other places throughout San Francisco like City Beer Store and they are in the process of opening a second location off market near the Castro which will be larger and focus on serving only. Their beer will be completely supplied by the third street location. I'll be there with baited thirsty breath to support their second endeavor.