Elevation 66 is the newest talk on the block.  It is the much-awaited new brew pub in El Cerrito near the Cerrito Theater.  I went there with my girls and a colleague on opening day.  We got there about 5:15, and the place was already packed.  We only had to wait about 15 minutes to get seated, which was good because we were hungry!  The atmosphere was pretty typical for a brewery and the decor was welcoming.  The noise, however, was out-of-control.  We actually couldn’t hear ourselves think.  This was not good for my 4 year old daughter, she was complaining of a noise-related stomach ache.  The food was ok, I suspect that once the kitchen gets rolling that this will improve.  But the beer was GREAT!!  Thank goodness since this is a brewery.  A pint was $3.50- not sure if this was an opening day special or not.  I ordered the light ale, my friend Eric ordered the IPA.  Both beers were tasty, refreshing, and left us with a good taste in our mouths.

Why would I go on opening day?  Because I want to see how this *hopeful* institution will progress.  Will I go back?  Yes, but probably not for the food anytime soon, and definitely not with my kids.