Originally launched in August 2020 at 275 Mission Avenue near Oceanside Pier, Craft Coast was founded by friends Lars Erickson, Brian Gillen, and head brewer Blake Masoner. They've since grown their footprint by acquiring the former Rip Current Brewing space in San Marcos in December 2023. The longtime Rip Current site not only expanded their brewing capabilities but offers an innovative trailer kitchen for catering and taco service.
The Encinitas location, set to take over the Coast Highway 101 space that was once home to Filiberto's Mexican Food, is directly adjacent to Modern Times Beer. Last Thursday, the Encinitas City Council approved the necessary permits, allowing Craft Coast to begin transforming the site. Plans include the removal of the drive-thru window to make way for a 1,500 square-foot outdoor patio.
The menu at the new Encinitas branch will mirror the success of its predecessors, offering Baja-style tacos on hand-pressed tortillas, smothered nachos, mulitas, bowls, and sides, alongside a selection of Craft Coast's craft brews. Fans can expect to enjoy favorites like Hazy IPAs, West Coast IPAs, and the acclaimed Agua Baja, a Mexican Lager with a reputation for its unique, possibly restorative qualities.
Craft Coast Beer & Tacos is expected to open by year's end at 476 South Coast Highway 101 in San Diego's North County city of Encinitas. For more information, visitÌý.
Originally published on January 20, 2025.
