The traffic had backed up on I-80 through Albany/Emeryville again, so I got off at Gilman Street hoping to bypass the jam. To my delight I accidentally found the new Pyramid Brewery/Pub in Berkeley. What a perfect way to wait out the traffic! I parked the family station wagon in Pyramid’s large parking lot, and the whole family went inside.

Located in an industrial district, Pyramid’s building has a post-modern decor with elements reminiscent of a warehouse or an aircraft hanger. There are pyramid themes throughout (ceiling lights, carvings on booths). The spacious pub/restaurant included a brick oven, balcony, sports bar, outside courtyard, full gift shop, tall booths, open seating in the center, and windows to the high-tech brewery beyond. The building was formerly a truck parts warehouse. The school district owns the other part of building and their lease is up in 5 years. Pyramid currently produces 2.5 M gallons per year, but plans are to expand to 5 M gallons per year when they buy out the school district.

I didn’t take the tour, but I could see the huge stainless steel tanks and computer controlled systems through the window. A virtual tour can be found at http://www.pyramidbrew.com/virttour4.html.

The music was modern mix format. Cylindrical speakers were suspended from the ceiling, blending into the exposed warehouse ductwork. The music was held at the right level to be heard, but not so loud as to wipe out conversation. The place filled up fast. Patrons ranged from families to students.

On tap were:

Hefeweizen

Draught Pale Ale (DPA) - "Irish" style (Nitrogen beer gas), copper ale with creamy head. My favorite for the evening.

Apricot Ale

Best Brown

Porter

Nitro Stout

Wheaten Ale

Pale Ale

ESB

IPA

Sun Fest (seasonal) - hoppy pilsner

Food - Excellent comments from all at my table. I had the goat cheese pizza, which was served on a very thin, crispy crust. The burger was reported to have a pleasant smoky grilled flavor. The shrimp salad was huge and reported to be fresh and tasty. The kids enjoyed the hot dog and french fries. In fact, my finicky 5-year-old son ordered a second hot dog, which is practically unheard of at home. The apple juice and lemonade were big hits with the kids too.

Service was a little slow, but our waiter was handling both indoor and outdoor tables.

I have to comment on the men’s room which is down a ramp, seemingly into a basement. Maybe it was the time of day, but when the door is opened you are unexpectedly blinded by a flood of sunlight. Be prepared before you fling open the door.