By: George Horning
This past weekend, the brand new Santa Barbara Public Market opened it doors on the corner of Victoria and Chapala Streets, just a block off of State Street. I didn’t make it there until Tuesday, but I couldn’t believe how big the crowd was inside the spacious location. People were lined up at every purveyors shop, waiting for a taste of the goodness inside. Everything looked wonderful, and everyone manning the shops was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to answer any and all questions.
Beer + Wine
Of course, it didn’t take long before I found my way into the very conveniently located beer and wine tasting room, simply called “Beer +Wine.” It sounded like my kind of place, and it most definitely was. With 11 beers on tap, there was no problem finding something fresh on tap to my liking. They also have quite the selection of beers by the bottle as well. They also had some interesting selections I wasn’t familiar with. I see a return trip in my near future.
I opted for a La Fin Du Monde, a triple-style golden ale from Unibroue in Chambly, Quebec. My beer was presented in an official La Fin Du Monde tulip glass. This was a great touch that you don’t see very often in Santa Barbara. You might get your beer served to you in the proper shaped glass, but it was a real treat to get it in the actual glass the brewery recommends and produces. Very cool. I’d tell you a little of the history of this beer, but I think this guy does such a good job telling the story, I won’t bother repeating it. Watch the video. It’s worth the couple minutes of your time. 
The setting at “Beer + Wine” is casual with four raised bars to sit or stand at, but the vibe is certainly upscale. People were in after work, enjoying some beer and wine with coworkers and friends. The place was lively. My girlfriend and I chatted up some other patrons across from us. They, like us, live in the neighborhood, and were in checking out what all the buzz was about. It was nice to meet some new people, and have a drink at a great new place in town. Stop by the Santa Barbara Public Market when you get a chance. It’s a fun place to overload your senses with the smells of fresh pasta, seafood, meats, cupcakes, coffee, produce, cheese, and of course, some great, unique beers. Cheers!
Santa Barbara Public Market
38 West Victoria
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
