Sipping and Smiling at Drake's New Barrel House

Local beer lovers have a new place to fill up. San Leandro's own craft brewery, , recently opened a taproom where you can sample over a dozen brews — including barrel-aged specialties — and take home a six-pack, growler, or even a keg. 

(Watch the video at right for a virtual tour.)

No food is served at the Barrel House, but if you're lucky, one of the Bay Area's many fantastic food trucks will be parked out front offering grub. If not, you're welcome to bring your own, or order take-out to accompany your beer. 

Drake's has been brewing beer at the former Caterpillar tractor plant off Davis Street since 1989. The brewery holds monthly "First Friday" benefits for schools and local organizations. 

At its new Barrel House taproom, patrons can sample the latest experiments of head brewer Brian Thorson, sip on a seasonal special or chug down an old favorite. 

Taproom hours:

Wednesday and Thursday: 3 p.m.-8 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: noon-8 p.m.

Sunday: 1 p.m.-6 p.m.

Cheers! And always drink responsibly. 

Follow San Leandro Patch on Facebook and Twitter.