The Pacific Coast Brewing Company in Oakland is one of those independent places that feels like a chain. Is there a "Build Your Own Brewery" kit that these guys send away for? Dark wood: check. Fantastic beers: check. Sub-standard American cuisine: check. (The chicken quesadilla is all right, as is anything that you can smother in sour cream. But avoid the spongy burgers.)
If you like beer and want a relaxed place to hang out and drink it in, this is definitely your spot. The tattooed and pierced waitstaff is super laid-back (so if that bothers you, go elsewhere), the clientele is relaxed and happy, and the beers, as I said, are awesome.
