Brewpubs: Jupiter

I've always been a big fan of Jupiter on Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley, if not always for the ambiance then definitely for the beer. First the beer: Choose from 11 house beers, and maybe more depending on the season. My favorite, as usual, is the IPA (once in a blue moon I'm brave enough to try the Quasar double IPA, which is always worth it). It's flavorful and it's not lacking in hop content. I have also always been pleasantly surprised by their Porter; it's thick, it's rich, and it's sweet like café mocha. Try for a desert beer after one of their several good pizza varieties. 

Now about the ambiance...it's not unappealing, and the open-air seating area is pleasant even in the coldest of Bay Area weather. It can get crowded, but what stands out the most is just how West-Coasty it is...people huddled around a fireplace in their hats, mittens and jackets in the frigid July weather. Strange. The bands that perform outside can be really loud, so if you're their for conversation during an act, you're probably better off inside.

For the UCB crowd, you can get Jupiter beers at the Bear's Lair on campus. It's a great spot to grab a Red Spot and curse your GSIs.