A report by Dana Eastland. The latest brewery to hit the scene is BLACK HAMMER BREWING, which is now softly open in SoMa. It is owned by Jim Furman, and head brewer Bryan Hermannsson is brewing German-inspired beers like a kölsch and Oktoberfest, as well as a squid ink IPA, an English ale, and their very own Nautilus hibiscus saison. They aren’t serving food, but takeout from nearby restaurants is encouraged, and they’re working on getting together a lineup of beer-friendly food trucks to pull up in front. The look is rather industrial, with handmade wooden tables and a bar, and garage doors that roll up for ventilation and sunshine on nice days. They are still working out the hours but will be closed Tuesdays; call before heading in. 544 Bryant St. at Zoe, 415-997-9253.
North Beach has an Irish pub called BAR NUA that just opened in the former Trattoria Volare. The space, right across from Washington Square, has great views and people watching, and comes from Vivian Michael Walsh, who also owns Durty Nelly’s and Martin Mack’s. There are cocktails, including a “Best Damn Bloody Mary,” as well as beer and wine. 561 Columbus Ave. at Union.
