When Marin Brewing Company opened its doors on April Fool’s Day 1989, the vision of two young men became a reality.
In the late 1980’s, Craig Tasley, a Marin County native with a background in restaurant management, teamed up with Brendan Moylan, an accountant turned brewer, with a specific goal in mind: provide the residents of Marin County with a brewpub offering the highest quality brews, a comfortable welcoming atmosphere, and delicious pub fare. With the help of their supportive families and a handful of eager investors, this dynamic pair was able to create their dream.
Brendan Moylan
Brendan had been a home brewer and a member of San Francisco’s homebrew club, the San Andreas Malts, for years. His enthusiasm for the club’s events and the art of brewing beer led to his serving as the President of the club in 1986.
Brendan’s experiences have translated into an in-depth knowledge of the brewing business. Brendan has not only gained first hand experience in the retail and sales business but he has extensively studied brewing science and technology.
His commitment led him to U.C. Davis where he took classes that include “Microbiology and Sanitation for the Practical Brewer”, “Microbreweries in the United States” and “Intensive Brewing Science”. He has communicated extensively with industry professionals; including brewmasters, brewing professors, and brewing organizations. Trade journals and market publications have also been used to further his awareness of market trends and the state of the industry at large.
Craig Tasley
On April Fools Day, 1989, Craig and Brendan proudly opened the doors of Marin Brewing Company, offering Marin County its first taste of what would go on to be a globally award winning Microbrewery. Right out of the gate, in October 1989, Marin Brewing Company won the first four of what would become many medals at the Great American Beer Festival in Denver. Meanwhile, back at home, Marin Brewing Company was quickly becoming the go-to place for beer enthusiasts. It was a dream come true for long-time die-hard home brewer, Brendan Moylan.
Head Brewer Arne Johnson
Arne Johnson has been the Brewmaster since he joined the MBC team in 1995, after successfully finishing a structured apprenticeship under brewer/mentor, Grant Johnston, who was Marin Brewing Company’s first Brewmaster, in conjunction with the American Brewers Guild. Well known and admired throughout the brewing community, Arne continues to brew high quality ales that are produced on-site with all natural ingredients. He keeps the restaurant full of award winning classic brews named after our beloved local landmarks, such as Mt. Tam Pale Ale, San Quentin’s Breakout Stout, Pt. Reyes Porter, and Eldridge Grade White Knuckle Double I.P.A., while also pushing the envelope with innovative new brews such as the E.S. Chi Herbal Tonic Ale and Orange & Black Congrats Ale brewed as a special celebration ale for the World Champion San Francisco Giants. Over the years, as the demand for its award winning beer grew, Marin Brewing Company expanded, added additional fermentation tanks, and still struggles to keep up with the high demand.
“I believe a good quality beer can unite people and bring many seemingly different cultures together to share the experience of a finely crafted brew. What better place to enjoy that brew than Marin Brewing Company.” ~ Brendan Moylan
Marin Brewing in Larkspur Landing
Marin Brewing Company is one the few restaurants that serve a full menu until midnight seven days a week. Our classic pub dishes include Fish & Chips and Bangers & Mash as well as tasty wood fired pizzas, juicy burgers, fresh salads and savory sandwiches. All sauces and dressings are made to perfection in-house. With its easy access to the Larkspur ferry, MBC is not only one of the best Marin County hotspots, but also a destination for the entire San Francisco Bay Area. The expansive outdoor seating area is “The Place To Be” on a sunny day and our indoor dining and bar areas are spacious and inviting with their unique decors. Mountain bikes hang from rafters and the walls feature sports highlights from the likes of Muhammad Ali – a nod to Craig, who passed away December 1996. He was an avid bike rider, runner and had a love of boxing. Photos of MBC employees and customers adorn the walls as well, especially as they don their “Brewed in Marin” shirts in various locales throughout the world. And Marin Brewing Company is especially known for unique “coaster art”. On any given day Marin Brewing Company can be found filled with an abundance of hikers, bikers, walkers and Marin County residents enjoying an afternoon of sunshine and delicious beer indoors or out. MBC prides itself on providing excellent customer service and on creating a casual and welcoming atmosphere for all its patrons.
AWARD HIGHLIGHTS
- Great American Beer Festival • Almost 30 medals 1989-2011 • Gold Medal • Silver Medal • Bronze Medal
- World Beer Cup • Three Golds • Three Silvers • Four Bronzes
- West Coast Cask Ale Championships • Festival Champion
- California State Fair • 18 Gold Awards
- World Beer Championships • 10 Gold Awards
Marin Brewing Website Marin Brewing on Facebook Marin Brewing on Beer Advocate
