Located in downtown Santa Rosa in California’s scenic Sonoma County, Russian River Brewing Co. is the Holy Grail for hopheads, boasting an incredible selection of strong IPAs and delicious sour beers on tap at its brewpub.
© Sashimomura | Flickr
Though I’d heard the name several times and tried its award-winning Pliny the Elder IPA on more than one occasion, I have not had many opportunities to try the brewery’s exclusive ales, so I was excited to visit and indulge this past summer.
Having heard the brewpub often gets packed, I set out to the restaurant in the early evening to avoid long lines and was pleasantly surprised to nab spots at the bustling bar no more than 10 minutes after arrival. The first thing I noticed was the massive sampler trays, featuring small samples of all 18 beers on draft. Staying nearby, I happily indulged in the full sampler (for $15), enjoying all but really savoring the strong sours the brewery is known for.
© Adam Barhan | Flickr
From the brewpub’s menu of pub bites like garlic bread, wings, sandwiches and pizza, I paired beers with the Omni pizza, topped with salami, pepperoni, sausage, mushroom, green bell peppers, red onion and olives. The spicy pizza complemented the hoppy beers and was delicious, but took a while to arrive due to the growing volume of people visiting the brewpub.
All in all, it was an excellent experience and I hope to return one day for the release of the brewery’s much sought-after Pliny the Younger double IPA on the first Friday of February.
Russian River Brewing Co.
1812 Ferdinand Court
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
tel 707 545 2337
Reviews
alcohol
appetite
bar
beer
beverage
body
brew
brewer
breweries
brewery
brewing
brewing co
ca
Cali
calif
california
chef
cook
craft
craft beer
cuisine
culinary
culture
dine
dining
dish
drink
eat
executive
executive chef
experience
food
food & drink
food and drink
foodie
gastro
gastro-tourism
gastrotourism
hop
ipa
meal
menu
pizza
pliny
pliny the elder
pliny the younger
restaurant
review
reviews
russian river
russian river brewing
russian river brewing co.
santa rosa
sonoma
sour
table
tap
taste
tourism
tourist
travel
west coast
yeast
Read This Next
Allagash Brewing Company
Entertainment
Sep 10, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Mar 6, 2025Seattle’s Hotel Westland Debuts Interiors Ahead of Spring Debut
Hotel Westland is slated to debut in Seattle, Washington, this spring. Located at RailSpur, in Seattle’s Pioneer Square, the property will feature 120 guestrooms. From Aparium Hotel Group with interior design by Curioso, Hotel Westland draws design inspiration from the Pacific Northwest as well as Seattle’s history.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Destinations
Mar 6, 2025Where to Experience New Travel Trend of Puddling
Ever heard of puddling? Not many have, but this unique travel trend involves visiting destinations teeming with small lakes and large ponds for outdoor adventures galore. And the best place to experience this new travel trend? None other than New Hampshire, a state home to more than 1,000 lakes and ponds under 500 acres.
Destinations / North America
Mar 5, 2025Early Spring Outdoor Adventures in Mississippi
Headed to Mississippi this spring? Add some of these outdoor adventures to your itinerary.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Mar 5, 2025Experience a Chicago St. Patrick’s Day at This Hotel
If you don’t have plans for St. Patrick’s Day, head to Chicago for high-energy celebrations and a luxury stay at The St. Regis Chicago. The John Jacob Astor Suite at The St. Regis Chicago offers one-of-a-kind views of the Chicago River as it sports its iconic festive green color for the holiday.
ShareThis