Pursuit of Hoppiness

Tasty beers and refreshing vibes at State Street’s new institution ale

Photographed by Silas Fallstich | Written by Katy Rupp

When summer comes around, my cravings for refreshing, crisp beer spike with the temperatures. My recent go-to fix? An afternoon at State Street’s new Institution Ale tasting room.

As I approach, the patio is filled with smiling people enjoying cold beers and dogs playing. I am immediately drawn to the tasting room’s vibrant energy and clean, industrial architecture. Each section of the space fosters a different vibe, whether you like a lively social atmosphere or laid-back refreshing one.

McKenna, the Tasting Room Manager, greets me at the bar. Early in conversation, I learn she just moved from Camarillo to Santa Barbara to oversee the space. She explains that Institution Ale started off as a small brewing operation headed by a father and his two sons in Camarillo and is named after the mental institution that stood before what is now Cal State Channel Islands.

Now onto what we all care about most in life: beer. The first brew I try is the Raspberry Day Dreamin’, a delicious ale with a fruity aftertaste. It takes me back to my childhood summer lake days with my dad, spending the afternoon basking in the sun and tasting the sweet, tart flavors of raspberries he grew.

Every week something new is placed on tap, including a golden ale base beer with added fruit. The rotating flavors include guava (one of their most popular), tangerine, and mango.

These beers are light and easily drinkable with a sweetness that is just right. Another one of my favorites is the White Walls IPA, a softer, fuller bodied beer with flavorful aromas and intense hop fruitiness. My vote for the drink of the summer undoubtedly goes to the White Walls IPA.

When I get a moment to glance at the food portion of the menu, their pretzels immediately catch my eye. What better to pair with a delicious, quality beer? As soon as I swipe my plush, salty pretzel into the IPA mustard and spicy cheese sauce, McKenna sees my eyes light up as I experience the piquant taste combination. She tells me everything is handmade in the kitchen, and an ingredient in the mustard sauce is one of their IPAs. If I could take home a large mason jar full of the IPA mustard, I would not hesitate.

My idea of a perfect afternoon in Santa Barbara now must include a stop at Institution Ale. The compassionate staff and delicious selection of beer combined with a refreshing and polished ambiance will forever leave me day dreamin’ of sunny days in this tasting room.

institutionales.com