From inside the shell of an old Mexican-Salvadoran restaurant, Old Bus Tavern is bringing something new to Bernal Heights. The restaurant and microbrewery has a complex makeup: one part casual fine dining, brought to you by chef Max Snyder, one part cocktail program, one part sunny and 70s throwback vibe (complete with old Volkswagen bus memorabilia), and one part microbrewery. Still, the relaxed nature of the three partners behind the concept makes the restaurant feel approachable as soon you walk in.
The restaurant feels like a true representative of the new San Francisco: chef Max Snyder picks his herbs, greens, and edible flowers from local parks in the Bernal area and the three partners — Jimmy, Ben, and John — are energetic, eager to learn, and seem like the accidental hipsters that most San Francisco hipsters are trying to be. (Did we mention they named their restaurant after a Volkswagen Westfalia bus?).
The team has a clear vision on their current and future goals and the food, beer, and cocktails are already impressing the likes of Michael Bauer, though Old Bus Tavern hasn't even celebrated its first year. Listen to the episode and discover how this team brought their home-brewed inspiration to life with a bustling neighborhood restaurant.