The Brew Project to Take Up Residence in Hillcrest

Eater has learned what will be moving into the R Gang Eatery site at 3683 5th Avenue when the restaurant shutters after Mother's Day. A craft beer-centric venture dubbed The Brew Project House will be taking over the space with the aim of reopening anew in Hillcrest this summer.

Owner Beau Schmitt, along with managing partner Mike Sill (Quality Social), intends revamp the 2,600-square-foot Victorian house by opening up the patio, creating more communal seating, redesigning the bar area and building out a private event room on the second floor.

The Brew Project, which first launched inside 57 Degrees in 2013, specializes in showcasing craft beer produced within San Diego County. The Brew Project House will have 26 beers on tap, from specialty releases from established breweries to new beers from smaller entries, enabling patrons to taste their way through a virtual San Diego brewery tour under one roof.

Location Matters' Mike Spilky, who represented the seller in the transaction, says, "The old R Gang location comes with a rare grandfathered full liquor license which made the location very attractive to interested buyers. Beau and his team have a great plan to utilize the license and space, bringing a much needed fresh concept to the Hillcrest community."

Schmitt told Eater that the beverage program will also include refreshing, San Diego-style craft cocktails that revolve around local distilleries as well as cold brew from local roasters on tap. A food component is also in the works, via a fast-casual setup that will feature shareable plates, salads, sandwiches and more.