As San Diego residents, Elliot + I have developed quite a passion for the local brewery scene. We are always looking for new spots to try, especially ones that unite great design, branding, and beer. On a trip up to Orange County in November, we stumbled upon this new spot that brought together all the right elements. Gunwhale Ales, which is tucked on Randolph Street within the SoBECA district, is a small, well designed brewery where southwestern vibes meet coastal influence.

On a Saturday, the brewery seemed to be the ultimate Orange County young adult scene; even though it was raining, people spilled out onto the patio, taking advantage of every inch in the space.  In addition to a well adorned, mint-accented tasting room, the brewery’s solid lineup of beers makes Gunwhale a spot worth revisiting. The melon hopped Landloper was my personal favorite on the menu, while Elliot opted for an IPA.

Although Gunwhale is the county’s newest brewery, it conveniently sits across the street from another local craft beer spot, Barley Forge. The two spaces are helping to create a mini-craft beer scene in Costa Mesa’s arts district, and are just a stone’s throw away from The Lab & The Camp “anti-malls”. If you’re ever in Orange County, I would highly recommend checking the area out!