Shayla B.
Yelp
You will drool over their burgers! I kid you not. Hopland Tap is seriously the best of Hopland. Excellent brews here too, but the real reason why this spot thrives is because of the exemplary service. Talk about down home and personal. You will feel like a family member and it will make you wanna come back for more.
I had just finished wine tasting at a nearby tasting room and initially went to another restaurant to have dinner. The vibe was off when I walked into that other restaurant, so I left. I don't normally do that, but nobody wants to feel ignored (especially when you're about to spend money there). I walked down the street and saw that this spot was open. If you know Hopland, then you know that it's a small town with limited options. I have passed by Hopland Tap several times during my drives down 101 but hadn't ever eaten there. Damn have I been missing out!
Walked in and was instantly welcomed by a group of people who were dining at a table near the entrance. I didn't know it at the time, but they were actually the restaurant owners and their friends. After telling them about what happened to me at the other restaurant, they told me to pull up a chair at their table. I wasn't expecting this at all, but I happily did. Cheryl (the owner) handed me a menu and asked me what I was drinking. After telling her what kind of beer that I normally drink, she recommended the Civilization Brewing Olompali Lager. I also ordered the 6oz basic burger.
The lager was just what I was looking for. Low on the hops with subtle fruits and easy drinking. And that burger! Dear LAWD! They call it a "basic burger" but there is nothing basic about it, folks! This is one fine slab of delicious ground chuck. Seasoned up for the Gawds, thick, meaty, delicious! When I saw how thick the patty was, I was scared that it would be dry. But NOPE! These folks know how to execute 'em right. I also have to note that they grill onions into the burger! Nom nom nom! It's served on grilled ciabatta bread with your choice of melted cheese. I added avocado to it and it was so friggin' scrumptious.
I chatted with Cheryl, Ron (the owner's husband), and the rest of their friends for a little while until they ended up leaving. Such a fun group of folks and seriously so humble. Most of them were other business owners in the area. I didn't learn that Cheryl and Ron were the owners until they left. I was shocked. So down to earth they were, but so are most people in this quaint town. They gave me my first beer on the house which was such a nice gesture and greatly appreciated.
Ended up hanging out for a little while and talking to one of the bartenders and another patron there. It seems like everyone knows everyone here. I love the relaxed and homey environment. I was stuff by the end of the evening and didn't want to make the long drive back home. But wow, what a fun spot! Had no clue what was hiding behind these doors, and now I can't believe that it took me so long to find out. When in Hopland, you have to check out this little gem! Awesome burgers, brews, and service for sure.