Monterey, California, is renowned for its stunning coastal views and vibrant culinary scene. Among its gems is Peter B’s BrewPub, Monterey’s original craft brewery, nestled within the Portola Hotel & Spa. This brewpub offers a unique experience, combining exceptional craft beers with delicious food, all in a prime downtown location near the iconic Old Fisherman’s Wharf. My recent visit to Peter B’s Brewery was nothing short of impressive, and it’s clear why this establishment is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The success of Peter B’s Brewery can be attributed to the dynamic duo at its helm: Executive Chef Danny Abbruzzese and Brewmaster Justin Rivard. Chef Danny brings a wealth of culinary expertise, creating dishes that perfectly complement the brewery’s diverse beer selection. His approach blends innovative flavors with comforting classics, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Justin Rivard, the award-winning Brewmaster, adds his innovative touch to the brewing process. Fresh off a medal win at the 2016 Great American Beer Festival, Justin’s passion for brewing shines through in every pint.
Let’s dive into some of the culinary highlights from Peter B’s Brewery:
Peter B’s Pub Steak: A standout dish is the Pub Steak, featuring a perfectly cooked flatiron steak enhanced by a vibrant green peppercorn sauce. The sauce, rich and flavorful, is crafted from shallots, garlic, and a veal stock reduction, offering a delightful bite. This dish exemplifies elevated pub fare, and the accompanying fries are equally impressive – crispy and irresistible. It’s a testament to Peter B’s Brewery commitment to quality ingredients and expertly prepared food.
Sweet Potato Tots: Another must-try at Peter B’s Brewery are the Sweet Potato Tots. These aren’t your average tots; they are served with a flavorful curry aioli that elevates the sweet and savory notes. The tots are perfectly crisp and the curry aioli is incredibly crave-worthy, creating an addictive appetizer or side dish that pairs wonderfully with their craft beers.
Backyard Burger: For burger aficionados, the Backyard Burger at Peter B’s Brewery is a revelation. Featuring a unique barbeque sauce made with one of Peter B’s stout beers, this burger is layered with cheddar, bacon, a crispy fried onion ring, and pickles. The stout-infused barbeque sauce adds a depth of flavor that sets this burger apart. The texture is also fantastic, with the crunchy onion ring and bacon complementing the juicy patty. Served with seasoned fries, this burger is a truly satisfying meal.
Of course, the beer is the heart of Peter B’s Brewery. To fully appreciate the range, I sampled a beer flight. The selection was so impressive that I opted for a second flight to explore even more. Here’s a taste of the exceptional beers I enjoyed:
Death Star Imperial Red: As a Star Wars enthusiast, the Death Star Imperial Red immediately caught my attention. This beer drinks like a robust amber ale but with a richer malt profile. Expect notes of caramel and toffee, culminating in a pleasantly boozy finish. It’s a flavorful and well-balanced red ale that showcases the brewing expertise at Peter B’s Brewery.
Cracked in the Rye IPA: The Cracked in the Rye IPA is a full-bodied IPA with a distinctive spicy character. Brewed with rye malt and pink peppercorn, it offers layers of honey, caramel, and spice. Eldorado hops further enhance the complexity. This IPA is particularly well-suited for the cooler months, offering warmth and depth of flavor.
Tuatara IPA: Named after the New Zealand lizard and brewed with Nelson Sauvin hops from New Zealand, the Tuatara IPA is a fruit-forward delight. Expect aromas and flavors of honey nectarine, peaches, and orange, with a clean, satisfying finish. As someone familiar with San Diego’s IPA scene, I can confidently say this one is a top-tier example of the style.
Midnight Bunny Rider Chocolate Hefeweizen: Pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles, the Midnight Bunny Rider Chocolate Hefeweizen is a unique offering. It delivers notes of chocolate and biscuit alongside the classic Hefeweizen flavors of citrus and banana. This unexpected combination highlights the innovative spirit at Peter B’s Brewery. For an insider tip, Assistant Manager Toni Diaz suggests adding a splash to the Stout Resistance for a chocolate twist.
Stout Resistance: For stout lovers, the Stout Resistance is a must-try. Brewed with cherry and coffee, it boasts rich chocolate and dark fruit notes. Despite my occasional stout preference, the smooth finish of the Stout Resistance makes it exceptionally approachable and enjoyable, proving its place as a house staple at Peter B’s Brewery.
All beers at Peter B’s Brewery are brewed on-site, ensuring freshness and quality. While some are seasonal, the Stout Resistance is one of their five core beers always on tap. The desire to return and perhaps fill a growler is strong, especially given the welcoming atmosphere and exceptional staff.
Speaking of the staff, the team at Peter B’s Brewery is truly outstanding. General Manager Stacie Tarantino’s passion for the brewery and the Portola Hotel’s green initiatives is infectious. Chef Danny also emphasized the team’s phenomenal nature, highlighting their passion as a key ingredient in the delightful dining experience. Their commitment to sourcing sustainable, local, and organic ingredients further enhances the experience.
The dog-friendly patio offers a relaxed and beautiful outdoor setting, while the interior is equally inviting, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of screens for sports enthusiasts. Peter B’s Brewery is a versatile venue, perfect for a casual visit or a planned event, with a dedicated barrel room available for tastings and private gatherings.
In conclusion, Peter B’s Brewery exceeded expectations and became an unexpected highlight of my Monterey visit. Moving beyond the typical “wine country” experience, the brewery offers a compelling combination of craft beer and delicious food. The flavors and overall experience left a lasting impression, making a return visit a definite plan.
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay | Two Portola Plaza Monterey, CA 93940
