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    Faction Brewing

    4.3 (733 reviews)
    ModerateBreweries
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    David T.

    Unique spot in the world. Former hangar/barracks area with a broad view of San Francisco across the water. Enormous and very cool seating and event space indoors, with a wide open outdoor area as well. Bartender seemed all business: no smile, no conversation, which seemed a bit out of place for the overall vibe. Would've appreciated more engagement because we wanted to learn more about the beers but he made us feel like we'd be wasting his time or even annoying him to ask. It's not someplace you'll just run across. Very tucked away and totally IYKYK. Good beers, too, so we'd happily come back. Hopefully the bartender will be a bit more open or talkative because the drinks and environment were very cool.

    Laura A.

    Lots of indoor and outdoor seating, unmatched views of SF, good tap list and friendly service. I tried the seltzer with POG and it was refreshing on a hot day. Lots of IPAs to choose from as well. Food truck available outside.

    Sun L.

    Huge parking lot, no problem finding free parking This is a December event, Pasko night market Had a great time, good drinks good food good music good time Service was quick even with such heavy traffic Lots of different drinks, sampled 3 and love all

    Family time!
    Adrian V.

    A great place to meet up with friends and family while enjoying great beer and some non alcohol drinks too. We tried several beer flights and they were all tasty and their n/a pineapple drink was fantastic too. The beer tenders are knowledgeable and friendly as well. Being out right next to where the naval planes would land at the old Navel air station make for a fantastic view of San Francisco and the bay bridge. There was a truck there of which I can't remember the name but "satay" was part of it and yes they serve satay, a satay sandwich smothered with peanut sauce which was pretty good , satay fries which were really good and other tofu dishes. The only downside is that there is no covered outdoor seating.

    Jane C.

    Great selection of beers. There was so much seating outside and some inside. There was live music inside as well and a taco truck outside also. It had great chill vibes and great views. There were lines inside and outside but the lines moved fast.

    Large beer selection with special brews
    Nicole R.

    Best views of SF Bay and a great selection of beer! There is always a food truck parked outside , bar snacks available inside. Cornhole and plenty of seating- including a giant gallon pump bottle of sunscreen which is much appreciated. Friendly staff will help with tastes and recommendations. Rotating one of a kind beers of many styles & hard seltzers produced on site- you can view the machinery, barrels etc inside the old airplane hanger building. Colorful,giant murals abound. The Mutt's Cuts car from "Dumb and Dumber" sits casually inside. The tarmac views are actually where "Mythbusters" filmed. Check events page for concerts, comedy, drag shows, vendor fairs, etc there's always something cool going on here. A must visit on Spirits Alley on the old Naval Base in Alameda.

    Indoor seating area with murals
    Agnes C.

    Can't beat the views here - on a clear day you can see the SF Skyline including the Bay Bridge. They have guest food trucks where you can pair your beer with food. You can check the food truck schedule on their website. There's variety of beer on tap for everyone's taste. We tried the pilsner and IPA's. I also tried the Cherry Chocolate Stout. You order and pay for the beer at the counter and staff is willing to let you have a taste before purchasing your beer. Families and pets are also welcome.

    Alexander G.

    One of my must-visit breweries of my recent trip was Faction, not just because of the excellent beers we've gotten locally from them, but because of their physical location inside a giant military hanger. This entire side of Alameda Island used to be a base and the abandoned warehouses are slowly being converted to businesses including a number of breweries. Faction is at the end, and has an amazing view of The Bay and San Francisco beyond. It's very windy outside, but beautiful sunshine. Parking is free and a huge lot. Inside is the main bar and taproom, it's small but there's lots more seating through the doors and inside the main hanger brewery area, it's amazing how big this place is! The beers on draft were excellent as I expected, but there were so many to try! Even having two flights there were still some I had to let go. The bartender was super friendly and fast to take orders, it was a popular spot. If you're a beer fan exploring the Bay Area, you must come here! There's also a distillery next door.

    View from the Faction Brewing deck.
    Diane L.

    Came to Faction for the record swap event they were hosting. There were so many great records. After digging through the crates, we went to the bar and ordered some beers. They had one IPA on tap, so I tried that (can't recall the name) it was very good. Faction has a huge deck/yard on the back where you can sit and see the San Francisco skyline. It's a nice place to spend an afternoon. There was food truck on the back patio for bites. I took off one star bc I was overlooked when waiting to order a drink even though it wasn't very busy at the bar and there were a couple bar tenders working.

    Ample inside seating for the cooler days.
    Johnny Q.

    7-27-25, Pizza was on hand and satisfied our hungry bellies after a long afternoon walking at Crab Cove. Service was excellent each round had us greeted with a smile which at some breweries you can tell they'd rather be somewhere else. Everyone in the outside patio was chill no one was overly loud and the music was just loud enough that you could hear it but it didn't make you have to yell to speak to each other. If you want a chill place to hang out with some great beers then have a look at Faction Brewing. Don't forget to give the Stout try.

    Daniel A.

    Had a blast at the drag show!!!! The queens were fabulous and super friendly and inviting! Will definitely be back for the drag show again next month. Beers are amazing as always! Beer tender was wonderful. We had a blast!

    Leana A.

    Neat place to get different & wide variety of beer overlooking the bay & . Big outdoor & indoor space. We went for a Spring event with lots of different vendors. Fun place esp when it gets warmer in Alameda.

    Outside sitting area! Super WINDY! L-R: Spring Time and Lager
    Kay O.

    This was my first time ever at this particular brewery and actually in this part of the city! I've only been to their downtown area and acute park that also had a dog park. As we drove onto the up-and-coming old military base, it looked somewhat deserted and something out of a horror movie! Granted it was daytime, a bit nerve-racking with two women driving as if we would get chased or something? Lol. Once we got to the parking lot, you could hear the music and there was definitely a vibe! It was very friendly, outgoing, loud environment, and I loved all the random murals and interesting things within the hanger itself! There was a huge seating area and a baby shower going on with what look like two other parties . We went for a diaper drive and the DJs that were mixing outside, so it was rather windy and I'm wish I brought a jacket! Lol. There was a pop-up taco truck, and the first beer I got was the "spring time "it wasn't very good to me. It tasted like a generic light beer, but the lady said that was most popular. I've been drinking cider beers, so I'm kind of stuck on those. When my friends two other girlfriends arrived, she told me to try the anomaly! She said it's like a stout, and I love scout! It truly was! I got one of those beers and downed it! It was delicious smooth, creamy with a great flavor and after taste!! The bathrooms are in the very, very back all the way down the corridor, which I'm sure they can't change since it's an old military base but there's a bunch of murals and different art pieces as you walk through the hanger to look at as you take the long journey to the bathroom! Lol Overall I wouldn't mind coming back here again, but I would definitely just get the anomaly beer and I wish they would come up with a cider beer. But that's only for me. Lol.

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    3 months ago

    Awesome selection of beers. My friends and I love coming here from time to time! Cool environment and chill employees.

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    Page 1 of 19

    Ask the Community - Faction Brewing

    Are there tvs to watch football games?

    Sorry, no

    Can you bring outside food?

    YES! Faction in fact loves when people bring outside food to enjoy with the view and beer. Just no outside alcohol.

    Do they have anything gluten free like cider or wine?

    No, Faction is a brewery and the ABC license they currently have allows them to sell only the beer they make on site. No ciders, wine or gluten free beers available.

    Can kids come?

    Yes, kids are allowed

    Could we bring outside food and bring it out to eat?

    Yes, bring outside food and enjoy it at the brewery!

    Are bathrooms available during COVID times?

    Yes, they're in the back of the brewery building and the paths there are clearly marked on the floor.

    Can you bring a dog for outdoor seating?

    Yes! Dogs are allowed and welcomed.

    Do they have food on fridays? I noticed food is a requirement but only saw food trucks listed for Sunday.

    At least one food truck will be parked on site each day they are open.

    Do they serve anything other than beer like cider or wine?

    Yes , occasionally. But those are seasonal. So you must go and try and ask what's available.

    Can you bring in outside food?

    Not any longer with the new COVID procedures. You have to order from the food truck

    Can you bring outside food to the brewery?

    YES

    Do they have wifi?

    Yes. Work from here whenever I am in the area.

    Can you bring outside alcohol if you're also buying beer?

    No outside alcohol is permitted as it jeopardizes their liquor license

    Are babies in strollers allowed?

    Yes, our friends brought their baby. Dogs are allowed as well.

    I see a lot of open space. Can I bring my own table and chairs to set up for a bigger group? That way I don't take up all the provided tables.

    Yes

    Do they have tvs?

    No, they don't have TVs. This is a great place to hang out with a group of friends - either indoor or outdoor for good conversation and yummy brew.

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    Almanac Adventureland

    Almanac Adventureland

    4.3
    (447 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$

    Tl;dr - A true beer garden ala Texas/Midwest, with the food, beer, and relaxed summer vibes you all…read moredream of. There's something for the whole family aside from some truly tasty beers. I've been coming here for awhile, ever since one fine afternoon I was in town on business and was feeling a need for craft beer. I was once the world's predominant authority on craft beer in my own mind, but years of chugging ales have decimated my tolerance for it. Anywho, the first thing you'll notice about this spot is it's out there, pretty far off from downtown Alameda tucked away in an old military pier alongside some other more enterprising establishments. Lots of parking so there's that. Inside, they are definitely doing that thang, massive brewery stacks dominate the background but the space is massive so it supports an almost endless amount of tables, benches, and spots to hide out. Arcade machines, outdoor activities (even a kids sandbox) really add the "Adventureland" elements that make it more than just a standard brew joint. If you've had their beer, it's definitely on the expensive side, but they keep a healthy variety that I would say is all reliably refined and delicious. Its no 2000 era Bells or modern day Founders, but I particularly like their love hazy and the Mexican style lagers. My friends who like sours say they are also quite good. Although this place is really not directly affiliated with the business it's definitely a reason I go so I can't leave it out -- they have food trucks outside that handle most of the food there and the one they have there always has one of the best burgers I've ever had in the bay, hands down. It's a blackened blueberry and blue cheese burger and even though I don't like blue cheese, this unholy alliance is faaaaaaan-friggin-tastic. Must try. Service is casual, they do flights which is a great way to try things. Not sure about any happy hours, would love to see them get a mug/growler thing going here for discounts, they might have something already I'm just not aware of but nothing is obvious when I've gone. It's a great spot to kick it with some friends on a nice day or late afternoon, having a few beers and relaxing. California doesn't really do the beer garden thing like we do in the Midwest, you'll find spots like this all over Michigan so it's nice to see something of the same type here finally. I believe dogs are allowed too ala Texas vibes, but not 100% on that so I'd check ahead of time. Personally, I cannot stand seeing dogs at restaurants and bars so even if they do allow it, those aren't your kids, can we start reporting places that allow dogs without signage? If I brought a raccoon in on a leash would you be fine with that? It's a sanitation issue. Anyways, I digress, if you like beer, you like fun, and you like damn fine burgers, this is the best spot on the other side of the pond. 'nuff said.

    Good selection of food and drinks. We bought alcoholic slushies and went to Scolari's food truck…read more We had hotdogs and fries. We enjoyed it all. The vibrant atmosphere is friendly for individuals, couples, and families. Easy parking across the street. The weather was good. High fences helped keep the wind down. Overall, a fun night out.

    Photos
    Pinball games
    Pinball games
    Barrel Hall Rental Space
    Barrel Hall Rental Space
    Pinball

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    Pinball
    Forbidden Island

    Forbidden Island

    4.2
    (1.6k reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    Amazing drinks, friendly servers, and great ambiance. Highly recommended…read more I loved their piña colada and copa banana!

    This place was recommended to my daughter, and she wanted to bring myself and my wife along to…read moreexperience at first hand. I remember old tiki bars back in the day in the 50s when I first remembered hearing about him and the 60s when they were still popular. But as time went on and people change, they kind of disappeared, but this one popped up. And I'm so glad it did because it brought back fond memories of what it used to be. When you walk into the place, it's unlike anybody you're gonna walk into there are one dollar bill stuck to every square inch of the ceiling. Smoking is only allowed outside, so the room was pretty clear because as you walk in it is small, but there's plenty of room at the bar and there are a couple little hutches that you can sit in as well as an area around the corner, but the big surprise is outside. When we walked outside, there was like a 10 foot tiki head out there and it was a flash throwback to the old days. It was so much fun to see. The bar serves drinks that are long forgotten and most bars, and they served them with flair. Everybody from the minute I walked in the front door was awesome. They were smiling, attentive, helpful, and making sure that you got exactly what you wanted and the perfect experience. I even had a moment to talk to the owner and tell him how impressed I was by the staff and the fun that the place brought. I would say I will absolutely be glad to return to this place anytime. The quality that drinks is absolutely five star. The flavors were spot on. And the throwback atmosphere was perfect. I strongly recommended for anybody that wants to go out for an evening of fun and frolic. When they close the back where the outdoor seating is a little bit earlier than the regular bar hours it does get a bit crowded on the inside because so many people are there that you didn't see originally. But that didn't change it. We still had maximum fun.

    Photos
    Outside patio area
    Outside patio area
    The two mugs that they have available. The mug on the left is a special edition mug and $150. The mug on the right is $40.
    The two mugs that they have available. The mug on the left is a special edition mug and $150. The mug on the right is $40.
    More of the atmosphere of the forbidden island, and I love all the money hanging from the ceiling

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    More of the atmosphere of the forbidden island, and I love all the money hanging from the ceiling
    21st Amendment Brewery- Taproom

    21st Amendment Brewery- Taproom

    4.1
    (428 reviews)
    8.9 mi
    $$

    I discovered they are closing after 25 years!!!! And if you…read moreare following, you KNOW I support good businesses closing and new businesses opening! But I am sad... Quality/Quantity - Surprised, but not surprised on the limited selection on tap... Today I got the following: Oktoberfest - Had to support as I will be out of the country (again) for this event. But my daughter will still support. Hazy Brew Free or Die IPA - Several of these, as this is one of their signature beers!! Crispy Cheese Curds - To bring back my Milwaukee experience! I would have preferred a more crispy fry, but it was still so good!! Especially with their beer. Ambiance - Consistent. Huge space, both indoor and outdoor. Lounge and picnic table seating. Service - Tayler/Tyler (sp) was great. I think he has been serving me for years; he still remembers me, lol. But because I am an excessive drinker, I still can't remember his name, so sorry!!!!! Price - $26 Includes 4 taxes and a CA special tax??? + a generous tip. Owner Comment - Congrats on your success since 2000 and with your two locations. Triple Rock Brewery has created so many owners of other breweries! Congrats on your success at this location since 2015; we have been customers from day 1. This place was hopping, pun intended, when you first opened. The best part was that I discovered you by accident, by just driving by! I am so sad that another brewery is closing... I do my share to support, but there are just too many craft breweries...

    Closing Party 10/25/25 !!!!…read more The End Of An Era!!! There may be a Few More Days left? To Kill Existing Stock!!! This Location had So Much Potential And Promise!!! For a While San Leandro was a Mecca For Beer !!! Good Bye And Good Luck 21st Amendment Brewery !!! Thanks For The Memories!!! It was a Great Ride and Run while it Lasted!!! This is And Was A Baller On A Budget Approved Establishment!!! I Keep My Pimp Hand Strong !!!!

    Photos
    21st Amendment Brewery- Taproom
    21st Amendment Brewery- Taproom
    21st Amendment Brewery- Taproom

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    Oakland United Beerworks

    Oakland United Beerworks

    4.8
    (99 reviews)
    2.1 mi
    $$

    I stop by here from time to time for their board game nights on Wednesdays with a meet up group…read more It's located inside a warehouse near Jack London Square. They have an upstairs and downstairs area. Just note there's not A/C, so the upstairs area can get warm on hotter days. They have a great selection of beer, but I always end up gravitating towards their Limitless Bavarian Hefeweizen. They even have agua fresca which is made from a local. So good and refreshing! They do have some food offerings as well. Always greeted with friendly service. I love that they collaborate and have lots of events going on. That's how I heard about their annual chili cook-off! Plenty of parking available. Just don't park in front of the parklets. I got ticketed there once since the red on the curb was faded and discovered after the fact that there was a fire hydrant hidden behind the tree. Overall, just a great spot to chill and grab a beer with some friends. Will continue to patron Oakland United Beerworks.

    I came for a women in stem event and I really enjoyed this brewery. If it's a nice day, they have…read moresuch great outdoor seating right out front. The service was great, they allow dogs inside as well. There's an upstairs area with high top tables, couches, and space to stand too. They have an extensive beer and wine menu. I appreciate their NA selection too. It was really hot and I didn't eat enough so I got a N.A. Mexican lager for $10, it was awesome. It had great flavor, not too watery, easy to drink. Their prices were good, space was clean. They even have a beer fridge if you want to get a pack. I would come back for a drink with friends

    Photos
    Oakland United Beerworks
    Oakland United Beerworks
    Oakland United Beerworks

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    Faction Brewing - breweries - Updated July 2026

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