As SF Beer Week draws near, beer lovers are in for a special treat—especially those interested in the fascinating history behind some of California’s most beloved brews. While the Bay Area is widely known for its rich craft beer culture, one place that deserves special attention is Downtown Hayward.
Downtown Hayward, with its burgeoning craft beer scene, has a rich tradition of innovation and small batch brewing that continues to thrive today. The area boasts several beer-focused establishments taking part in SF Beer Week, making it the ideal time for both newcomers and longtime locals to dive into its dynamic beer culture.
In 1999, the Bay Area’s craft beer scene had yet to embrace the Double IPA, a gap that local Hayward business owner Vic Kralj aimed to fill. With a passion for unique brews, Vic envisioned The Bistro hosting the first-ever Double IPA festival and reached out to brewers across the region, including Vinnie Cilurzo of Russian River Brewing Company.
After experimenting with hops and malt, Russian River’s Pliny the Elder debuted at the 2000 festival, and its success helped launch the Double IPA craze. Gaius Plinius Secundus, or Pliny the Elder, was the first to mention hops in writing, making him a key figure in Double IPA history and the namesake of the iconic beer. Pliny the Elder quickly became a global favorite, holding the title of the world’s #1 beer for eight consecutive years, all thanks to its debut at The Bistro’s Double IPA Festival.
Co-owned by Kralj and his wife Cynthia since 1994, The Bistro has been Hayward’s home for great craft beer, live music, beer festivals and fine wine. Specifically, it is a popular venue for live music and comedy, featuring everything from local acoustic acts to full bands and stand-up comedy nights. To celebrate their history, The Bistro continues to host the Double IPA Festival every year, which has unofficially grown into SF Beer Week.
Held on Saturday, Feb. 8 from 12pm to 3:30pm, at 1001 B St., the 25th Annual Double IPA Festival will offer attendees the opportunity to sample 80 different Double IPAs and even some Triples. Tickets start at $80 plus tax. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite.
Also taking part in SF Beer Week is Buffalo Bill’s Brewery, one of Hayward’s most popular long-standing establishments. After being taken over by new owner Alejandro Gamarra in 2023, the brewery continues to serve up classic American dishes like chili waffle fries, fried pickles and pulled pork sandwiches, alongside a selection of house-brewed beers.
This year, they’ll be featuring crowd favorites such as Haystack Hazy IPA, Tasmanian Devil and La Rubia, all crafted by brewmaster Miles Atkinson. Their latest creation, the New Black Lager, combines a unique blend of roasted malts for a smooth, complex flavor that’s both bold and refined.
Since opening its doors in September 2023, Blue Crown Bar & Bistro is making its SF Beer Week debut. This venue boasts 16 taps, offering a diverse range of local beers alongside an impressive selection of spirits. Plus, the bistro regularly hosts free beer tastings, inviting the community to sample over 10+ unique brews.
Downtown Hayward has emerged as a dynamic hub for craft beer lovers, blending a rich history of brewing innovation with a thriving modern scene.
For the latest updates on Downtown Hayward Improvement Association, visit downtownhayward.com and follow us on Instagram @DowntownHayward, and Facebook @DowntownHaywardCA.
