Half Door Brewing Co. was established in 2015 by siblings Stacy and Dan Drayne, whose family also owns The Field Irish Pub in the Gaslamp. Located in a historic 4,000-square-foot, bi-level former home with a distinctive Southern-style feel, which has views looking into Petco Park, Half Door has been celebrated for its unique setting and community vibe.
The Irish brewpub offered a variety of house beers, including a dry Irish stout, pale ale, IPA, red ale, and Berlinerweisse, alongside a menu that integrated these beers into dishes like fish and chips and beer-braised short ribs. Dan Drayne, the brewmaster, was known for his experimental approach to brewing, rarely producing the same beer twice, focusing on water treatment, yeast strains, and hop interactions to refine his craft.
Originally taking over the expansive Modern Times Leisuretown space in Anaheim in 2023, Villains Brewing Company has quickly made a name for itself with its vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings. Led by Brad Kominek, a respected brewer from Orange County, and Isaias Hernandez of Smoke and Fire restaurant fame, Villains has embraced a theme of "villainous" hospitality, merging craft beer with artisanal food in a family-oriented environment.
Originally taking over the expansive Modern Times Leisuretown space in Anaheim in 2023, Villains Brewing Company has quickly made a name for itself with its vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings. Led by Brad Kominek, a respected brewer from Orange County, and Isaias Hernandez of Smoke and Fire restaurant fame, Villains has embraced a theme of "villainous" hospitality, merging craft beer with artisanal food in a family-oriented environment.
Villains Brewing's approach in Anaheim involves a multi-concept space with a food hall, a speakeasy, and a focus on community and sustainability. Their menu includes signature items like smoked beef brisket and smash burgers, paired with beers like the "Brethren of Filth" IPA and "Saca La Bolsita" Mexican lager, all prepared under the tagline "brewed with villainous intent."
Half Door Brewing will remain open until the liquor license transfers, at which time it will cease operations. Villains Brewing will then move into the space, implement some of its own design touches, and retool the menu to be similar to the Anaheim location. Additional updates on the transition will be provided as more information becomes available.
Half Door Brewing will remain open until the liquor license transfers, at which time it will cease operations. Villains Brewing will then move into the space, implement some of its own design touches, and retool the menu to be similar to the Anaheim location. Additional updates on the transition will be provided as more information becomes available.
"With my Dad trying to take more time away from The Field to enjoy life and me wanting to start a family we have decided to sell the lease at 903 Island Ave," explained Stacy Drayne. "Half Door will stay open until transfer for liquor license."
Villain Brewing Company is expected to open later this year at 903 Island Avenue in San Diego's East Village. For more information, visit villainsbrewingcompany.com and check out their food menu below.
Originally published on February 12, 2025.
