ManyFriends Brewing Company - Saratoga, California

Eli

Ted is a sweetheart of a man. Passionate about providing a friendly and welcoming environment. On top of that he's a proud beer nerd. His passion for beer brewing is apparent from the first sip and even more reinforced if you pick his brain about his projects and passions.
Some people may gripe about the price. But it includes tax and tip. If you want to drink a $7 Coors there are plenty of establishments that will be to your liking. But you'll wind up paying about the same if you're leaving a tip that the workers at those other places need to survive.
The beer is just damn good too. The peanuts flow and the atmosphere is so charming. People come in to play board games and he has regulars who clearly cherish many friends as a vital 3rd space which we vitally need in this disconnected day and age.
I try to stop by and see Ted and have a couple brews as my half way pointon my long commute back from work. I only wish I could support him and his business more!
In case you're wondering my go-to is his porter which he always has. But I make it a point to try something new every time I come in. I have yet to be disappointed.
Much love, Ted.
-Eli

R

Replying to the owners reply: It may have almost been a year ago(creepy you remember) but the bad time and beer I had there lingers.

The store was completely empty... Did you delete my ID picture? What were you planning to do with it? Your curiosity that day does not excuse your attitude.

Unfriendly owner, Did not say a peep to me when I walked in with a friend then two older people walk in and he yells hello to them across the room.

I was looking to make a good review about a small business but the owner creeped me out by taking a picture of my ID when I entered. Kind of rudely threw down the card on the counter when my hand was open to take it back.

Video attached. Again I was looking to make a good video review of this place but was treated badly. Two beers I had were terrible on top of all this.

Colleen H.

ManyFriends Brewery is warm and inviting, thanks to Ted the owner and brewer. He makes the beer and provides the cheer. 😃 What a fun brewery loaded with comfy seats, loads of board games and card games to play. He even had a miniature Operation game to play.

Loved the beer options, all served with peanuts on the side. Great place. Go visit!

Ramon B.

Great beer, friendly owner, but extremely overpriced!!
$13 to $16 per beer, price includes tax and tip, definitely not worth it.

Kurt K.

Always a great experience. The most unpretentious, genuine brewmaster that you'll meet. Always there to personally serve his customers and both the selection and quality of the beer is impressive. You can't miss with this destination.

Nahm L.

This is a brewing company not a bar. The owner has passion on brews. He is nice and friendly. It has a dart and atmosphere is a typical pub just like in a movie or tv drama. Anyone can easily talk each other while they are drinking. There is no tipping. He provides beer or ale with roasted peanuts.

Rupinder M.

Since I grew up in the UK I like hanging out in pubs. This is the first brewery in Saratoga so had to check it out. I waited till they had their English IPA on tap to visit. I do not care for the over hopped US style IPAs … so finding more of a session beer was good! I liked it. I tried their session pale ale but preferred the Lieutenant (pronounced British style) IPA.
The bar keep was very nice, the atmosphere was good, as was the beer … not too far from my house, what’s not to like!
You can bring food with you and drink and hang out! Awesome! There are a lot of places nearby with great food … I recommend Rose Market … they have kebab that goes well with beers.
I would recommend a visit!

Stopped by a day later and had the two other brews they had, loved the stout (mild flavor so very drinkable); blonde ale also was great, refreshing with a citrus end flavor and session like. I think my favorite actually is the stout 🍻

Sandra L.

Lovely little brewery that recently opened. The owner is very personable and is keen to ensure all his patrons are happy. There’s various board games available to play with while having a drink, and you can write a little message on the wall.