La Mesa residents Clint & Molly Stromberg brought Bolt Brewery to their East County San Diego neighborhood in 2014 and expanded with a tasting room and restaurant in Little Italy that opened in summer 2015. In summer 2019, the Strombergs opened Bolt Brewery & Spirits in the La Mesa space that housed Mr. G's Tavern for seven decades, but that location shuttered in 2020 at the onset of the pandemic. The husband-and-wife team also opened a new brewpub last year in the space that last housed Hungry's Kitchen & Tap in San Diego's Old Town, but that branch is now Diego's Baja Grill.
Bolt Brewery ownership shared via social media the company will close its La Mesa brewery as of Sunday, December 29. This marks the end of an era for the brew pub that helped revive the Bolt brand, originally founded in Fallbrook in 1987.
"It's not easy for us, and we truly appreciate your understanding and support during this time," Bolt's owners wrote in their statement. "We'd love to see your familiar faces this weekend to give us a positive send-off and enjoy some great brews one last time."
The La Mesa location was a labor of love for the Strombergs, who resurrected the Bolt brand in 2014, 35 years after Clint became one of the first post-Prohibition brewers in San Diego County. The brewery featured a Quonset hut brewhouse, a sprawling outdoor patio, and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a beloved gathering spot for locals.
Bolt Brewery quickly became known not just for its beer but also for hosting live music, charity events, and private celebrations. While the La Mesa location remained the heart of the operation, the success of their Little Italy restaurant and bar eventually outpaced the brewery in revenue and became the focus of the Strombergs' energy.
Although the La Mesa location is closing, Bolt Brewery’s Little Italy outpost at 1971 India Street remains in full operation. The restaurant, known for its locally inspired menu and rotating craft beer taps, will continue to welcome patrons. The Strombergs have hinted at plans to shift their focus entirely to the Little Italy location, where their chef, Juan Haro, has recently debuted an expanded menu. They also hope to use the space as a platform for showcasing beers from other small, local breweries.
In August 2024, the Strombergs announced plans to sell the La Mesa property. The 5,000-square-foot site includes a 10-barrel steam brewhouse, expansive outdoor seating, and equipment for beer production, making it a prime opportunity for prospective buyers interested in brewing or hospitality ventures.
Bolt Brewery’s La Mesa location will be open at 8179 Center Street through December 29, offering one last weekend for fans to celebrate a decade of good times and great beer. For more information, visit boltbrewery.com.
Originally published on December 26, 2024.
