Two summers ago, in a quest for cask ales, I found myself enjoying a number of true-to-style European beers at Barley & Sword Brewing in North Park. Since that first encounter with Mike Howell, head brewer, and his unique lineup of beers, I’ve been a big fan, returning as often as possible.
Trips to North Park from North County, however, aren’t that easy.
As of St. Patrick’s Day, that’s no longer an issue. Barley & Sword has opened a new location, The Tavern, in Escondido where they are serving up more than just great beer.
It didn’t take me long to find my way there, and I wasn’t the only one. Word is clearly already out on the uniqueness, quality and exceptional service Barley & Sword provides. Even before the band, Rock of Ages, took the stage, The Tavern was filling up with a mix of curious newcomers and Barley & Sword faithful. Howell – after a long day of brewing in North Park – met me for a pint.
ILB: How did the St. Patrick’s Day grand opening go? It was simultaneously much awaited and ‘surprise we’re open’ event.
Howell: The opening on St. Paddy’s was wonderful. We had a pretty healthy crowd and we were so excited to finally get to welcome in our new neighbors. As with all openings there were some last-minute tweaks here and there, and the final approval didn’t come until mid-afternoon, which was crazy on its own. But we made it in the end.
ILB: You’ve developed a tremendous community in North Park, what are the expectations and hopes for The Tavern?
Howell: We are so grateful for our community in North Park and hope to not only match but also exceed that in Escondido. We aim to become a fixture within the community and are already meeting people and signing up for many community events over the course of the next few months. We are really excited for these opportunities to get to know our new neighbors better.
ILB: Any specialty beers for the opening?
Howell: Our English Pale Ale lends its name, “The Tavern,” to the location itself. Thus differentiating it from our North Park location and highlighting the much larger space and capabilities for music and other events.
ILB: What does the new, larger venue allow?
Howell: Not only will we have significantly more space for production in Escondido, but we also have a taproom that is more than three times the size, a stage, and a private event space. There are two patios as well, and our own parking lot. The possibilities for events, shows and partnerships are nearly endless!
ILB: Will the cask ale commitment continue in Escondido?
Howell: I am very excited to bring cask ale to Escondido, but I have to make sure it’s done right. There are some infrastructure requirements to support cask ales that I still need to build out before I tap the first cask. There’s no doubt that that day will be a highly celebrated one.
ILB: What doesn’t change for someone new or old coming in to Barley & Sword here or in North Park?
Howell: The number one thing that I want every person to feel when they walk into Barley & Sword — be it the Pub or the Tavern — is to feel warm and welcome. We want to create an environment that is akin to that of “Cheers” — where everyone knows your name, and if they don’t, they ask you. The Tavern is a place to talk, meet new people, share ideas, share a pint and enjoy the journey together.
ILB: What’s coming up next at The Tavern?
Howell: We are building out a robust schedule of bands, Dungeons & Dragons events, burlesque shows, and even Knight Fights. It’s more than enough to make my head spin! We might just have some surprise announcements in the works as well. Stay tuned!
On this visit, I enjoyed the Neustadt Kolsch and the Wheeler’s Patent Irish Stout. Neustadt is a refreshing light pale brew that blends the ale and lager styles for a clean drinking, slightly malty thirst-quenching drink. Wheeler’s Patent took me back to the Emerald Isle: dark, creamy, with mouthwatering malty and roasty notes. No favorite here: Just have one of each!
You can find out more about Barley & Sword beers and events at their website barleyandsword.com and on instagram @barleyandsword.
I Like this Beer!
Tiger Ride by Culver Beer Company in Carlsbad. This smooth, dry and slightly sweet Belgian Blonde is far too easy drinking for 8% abv. Stop by for a sandwich and a beer, you won’t be disappointed.
Jeff Spanier is the co-host of I Like Beer the Podcast. Follow Spanier’s adventures on Instagram @ilikebeerthepodcast and @ilikebeerthepodcast2757 on YouTube.
