Orig. Gravity Public House
San Jose, California
What it is: San Jose’s craft-beer scene looks a lot different than it did nine years ago, thanks in large part to Original Gravity’s influence. Their consistently impressive beer menu emphasizes local, independent options and includes plenty of sours and barrel-aged bruisers from the cellar. Plus, its quaint historical building contains a hidden gem: a relatively private communal back patio that’s one of the cozier spots imaginable.
Why it’s great: With 20 taps and supplemental bottle, can, and cellar lists, Original Gravity focuses on quality rather than quantity. “We try to keep our finger on the pulse of what’s popular,” says general manager/beer buyer Rob Monroe. Regardless of chosen libation, it’s wise to wash it down with something from their tried-and-true pub menu. “If you’re going to try one thing here at OG, it’s got to be the duck fat fries,” he says. He suggests pairing them with either a crisp pilsner or West Coast IPA (because, let’s face it, what doesn’t pair well with those?). Pro tip: Be sure to check OG’s social media in early February for information about their annual Sour Fest. It’s a doozy. —Beth Demmon
Details
Hours: 12 p.m.–10 p.m., Wednesday–Thursday; 12 p.m.–12 a.m., Friday–Saturday; 12 p.m.–10 p.m., Sunday
Address: 66 South 1st St., San Jose, California
Web: originalgravitypub.com