Last year, Islla St. Brewing Co. introduced themselves to San Antonio at the San Antonio Beer Festival in the Dignowity neighborhood of downtown.
Now, San Antonio’s newest brewery is ready to bring their wares to the public this weekend, with a more formal opening to include special events set for next weekend.
“We’re excited to finally open our doors to San Antonio,” said Joaquin Pena co-founder and brewer for Islla Street. “It’s been a long three year road and we’re ready to bring our unique brews to everyone.” Pena and brother Josh draw heavily from their cultural influences to create beers that they hope will highlight the unique flavors of their heritage. Josh handles the front end of the house, as well as brewing with Joaquin.
Islla Street looks to have around 10 beers on tap, with tap room availability only for now. Growler fills, flights, and limited distribution will come in the near future.
Named for the street their grandfather grew up on in Corpus Christi, Texas, Islla St. will have food trucks and music throughout the weekend, while patrons sip on the likes of ‘1606’ a Belgian ‘Jardin’ Saison named for the house on Islla St. their grandfather grew up on. This saison is chuck full of his favorite spices too, like sage and basil.
Other offerings include Midnight Mexican Chocolate Stout, a milk stout made with brandy soaked pecan chips and Abuelitas chocolate made for the Christmas holidays; and Suavecito, a brown ale with toasted coconut, palm sugar and Mexican caramel. This ale takes on not only their grandfather’s nickname of Suavecito, but his style as well. “Our grandfather was known as being positive and a handsome man when he was younger.” said Josh. “He was very much enamored with that smooth 50’s style.”
“We want people to look at every beer we do as a story in a glass, beers that are inspired by our friends and family,” said Joaquin. “The brewery reflects our family’s essence and culture. We feel that the flavors of our beers will make it easier for San Antonians get into craft beer.”
The brewery and tap room are located on the city’s Northeast side at 1911 Crosswinds Way. Regular business hours will be Thursday’s 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday’s and Saturdays noon to 10 p.m. and Sundays noon to 8 p.m.