Dempsey's Restaurant Brewery

WineCountryBEER

 
 
A visit to Dempsey's patio seems to make the troubles of the world subside as you relax along the Petaluma River with some craft made beers brewed just inside. Since opening Dempsey's way back in 1991, proprietor and brewmaster Peter Burrell has offered his beers in a casual and relaxing atmosphere. The beer is handcrafted traditionally in small batch quantities. All their beers are kegged and sold on draught. Normally, six beers are offered in the restaurant at any given time, though some styles may rotate seasonally. They are also just beginning to distribute their beers to other local establishments. The beers here are typically smooth and easy drinking, but are crafted with the respect that you would expect out of a wine country location. Recently, they were offering $0.75 to $1.00 tasting portions, which is a smart way to sample all the beers on tap. Some beers to look for Red Rooster Ale -- Dempsey's signature beer brewed with loads of caramel malt and Cascade hops. Robust. Try it with their pork chops or BBQ sandwich. ABV 6.0% Sonoma Irish Ale -- A medium-bodied brown ale in the old style. ABV 5.5% Sonoma Mt. Wheat Ale -- very drinkable 50-50 malt/wheat ale is especially good in the summer months. Unfiltered. ABV 4.7% Ugly Dog Stout -- Popular in the cooler months, it has lots of caramel and roast. Smooth. ABV 6.8%.  The bar is an attractive all wood affair and has ample seating for a small crowd. But in the summer, it's more fun to be on the outside patio. The restaurant Dempsey's is known for its emphasis on organic and fresh locally-sourced ingredients. Liberal additions of spices and herbs seem to be the norm for Dempsey's kitchen There is plenty of flavor here to complement the many tasty beers. The menu also includes a number of pub staples, like burgers and wood oven pizza, to go along with an array of healthier fare. They say don't miss the onion rings.  The requisite brewery blackboard announces all the beers available Notice that Dempsey's offers everything in sizes from a tasting sample through pints to pitchers.

A relaxing experience on the lazy river

Location

Take the Washington St. Exit off Hwy 101. Drive on East Washington St. toward downtown Petaluma. Watch for the Golden Eagle Shopping Center on the left. You will find Dempsey's at the rear of the Shopping Center on bank of the Petaluma River. For another way in, they are right at the end of the new pedestrian bridge connecting to old downtown Petaluma, with its shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and bars.

Tours: The proprietor brews on the premises. Call ahead to see if he's brewing. Otherwise ask someone to show you around.

Address: 50 East Washington St, Petaluma, CA 94954

Phone: 707-765-9694

Go to: Dempsey's Web Site

Located in the very bottom left corner of the Golden Eagle Shopping Center, Dempsey's is also accessible using the pedestrian bridge that connects the property to Water St. The bridge is seen crossing the Petaluma River at the bottom left corner of the photo.

The outdoor patio sits along the tree-lined river walk and is the choice place to sample Dempsey's beer and food during pleasant weather.

The foot bridge connecting Dempsey's to the Water Street district restaurants and shops is a real plus.

Take the Washington St. Exit off the 101 freeway. Drive on E. Washington Street until you turn left into the Golden Eagle Shopping Center.