Description by Andrew Killion
East County’s first real foray into craft beer bars comes with a nicotine kick. Hoffer’s 24 taps, excellent high-brow wine selection, and two walk-in humidors of tobacco-infused glory stand out in the middle of an otherwise sleepy La Mesa Village. While not a big beer drinker, proprietor Phil Hoffman knows his wine and his stogies, and at least knows enough about business to employ people who DO have a strong footing in craft beer. He’s also not afraid to take suggestions from the house for upcoming taps. You can always find him taking a long pull from a dark cigar with a glass of wine on the back patio/smoking area, which is likely where you’ll find yourself on a warm summer night, comforted by a Speedway Stout (on regular rotation here) and a glowing cherry at the end of your maduro. (PRO-TIP: The dark green–walled ambiance here always makes me feel like I should be in a suit ... so maybe wear a suit.