Tuesday 20th of May 2014 04:16:09 PM

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North San Diego County (that is, everything North of La Jolla) is abundant with breweries / brewpubs. In fact, there seems to be 1 or 2 opening month or so...and if memory serves (and at my age, it may not!) I believe I read in some periodical that THAT figure is not too far from wrong!

In Oceanside, on the border with Camp Pendleton, there sits the Tap That Tasting Room (across from Legacy Brewing for the adventure-some brew partakers who believe that only (1) establishment a day in beer-dom simply is NOT enough....not for the experts or the weak-of-palate!)

Located in a non-descript industrial mall, Tap That is a treasure trove of local San Diego brews, NOT just the North County...but it DOES offer a one-stop "sip" for several breweries IF you don't want to actually travel to the original location. Iron Fist, Stumblefoot, Aztec and others are all represented as are practically every style. (I added that last bit to encourage only those dedicated IPA hoppers to let go of their comfort zone and try...just TRY...something a little different...even though I know that's nigh impossible!)

There's even free entertainment. A bull-dog will greet you at the door and watch you for a moment, sizing up any opportunity for play. Should you spy and crushed plastic bottle on the floor and, in an effort to do a good deed, pick it up and walk toward the garbage can -- be warned! That is NOT trash! That is a chew toy and YOU have just become said bull-dog's best friend. He will leap toward it, pull it from your hand then begin a game of tug-a-war that, even though you might bench press 300 pounds, you WILL LOSE! Do not try to ignore Mr. Bull-Dog. He will bark his insistence that you continue the game. This is all a clever ruse by the owners, I am convinced. After a few moments of this play, you will come to realize you've drank most of your beer in an effort to stay cool, hydrated and maintain some semblance of energy...requiring that you order just one more.

Evil plan.

I'm on to you, Tap That. I am an intelligent, older, wise man who refuses to be fooled by your little scheme -- refuses to be enticed by the great variety of beers offered -- will not succumb to friendly atmosphere.

Know this! I will return ONLY because I will NOT let that damn dog defeat me!

But it won't be for the beer. Really.

It won't.

Honest.

Ok...mebbe a little.