(Photo by Bottlecraft/Yelp)
Bar | South Park

‘South Park Suds’

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

The interior of the long-cherished Hamilton’s Tavern is now down to the studs after a fire last November caused more than $1 million in damage to the popular beer bar. The space is currently being restored by Bottlecraft, which is moving in to open a new neighborhood bar called Bock.

Bottlecraft owner Chris Jensen is aiming for a pub-like concept in both design and beer offerings. He intends to maintain the convivial vibe that made Hamilton’s a South Park destination–and we can’t think of a more qualified drink vendor to bring the address back to life.

Jensen has proven his beverage-industry savvy with a string of successful bottle shops and tasting rooms that can be found in North Park, Little Italy, Liberty Station, and most recently, Oceanside.

Bock is slated to open next year in June or July, although the new brew options in South Park don’t end there.

In addition, the space that formerly housed Grants Market and Coffee Shop is undergoing a remodel that will give way to a restaurant and beer bar operated by Harland Brewing Co. The brewery is based in Scripps Ranch and hasn’t yet announced when the new venture will be completed.