Barrio Logan's craft beer scene is growing

North County craft brewer Iron Fist has established a presence in the downtown area. Its new Barrio Logan tasting room officially opened July 24, setting up shop in the Mercado Del Barrio development that seeks to revitalize the neighborhood.

A family enterprise since opening its doors in Vista five years ago, owners Eve and Greg Sieminski say the intimate vibe will continue in their new location. "What has been a foundation of our business in Vista is that we were always there as a family," they say. "Our customers got to know us, our story, our passion and became our friends...our 'Iron Fist Family.' We want the people of Barrio and San Diego to get to know us."

The 2950-square-foot tasting room features open views of the Coronado bridge courtesy of large roll up doors leading to a comfortable 800-square-foot patio. Iron Fist flagship beers flow alongside small-batch and barrel-aged special releases from a row of 30 handles, including three nitro taps.

Iron Fist joins Otay Mesa's Border X Brewing in bringing fresh craft beer to Barrio Logan. The Sieminskis say when they began seeking a more central location to expand to, the neighborhood wasn't at the top of their list; rather they were approached by Mercado Del Barrio developer Shea Properties. "At first we were resistant," they say, "[but] when we saw the depth and breadth of the project as well as the revitalization of the area, we wanted to be part it."

Calling the area "rich in culture and artistry," the Sieminskis also cite the passion of Barrio residents for their neighborhood as a big reason they decided to open in the community, which is best known for its artist studios, coffee roasters, and the highway overpass murals of Chicano Park. "We are honored to now be part of this celebration," they say.

While the new tasting room is Iron Fist's first expansion outside Vista, it won't be the last. "We have been invited to be one of three breweries in the North 40 project in Carlsbad," say the Sieminskis. That mixed market concept, due in November 2016, will also feature AleSmith and Mother Earth Brew Co., as well as restaurants, produce stands, and artisanal shops, on a large plot of land adjacent to Carlsbad's flower fields.