Alaro Craft Brewery, Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

places/ChIJQ39oHI3RmoARLa8laA8OeQ4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNZcGJUSTNBRRAB

Over the weekend, we visited Alaro Craft Brewery, Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Sacramento while seeing a family member. This restaurant opened in June 2018, taking over the old Rubicon Brewing Company site. The founders, Ray and Annette Ballestero, wanted to honor the brewery's history while creating something new.

When we arrived in the late afternoon, a nice breeze made it feel pleasant outside, but we chose to sit inside since it was less crowded. After a short wait for a non-reserved table, we were seated in a well-designed space with a lovely long bar.

Alaro offers Spanish-inspired tapas and classic pub food, paired with craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The head brewer, Chris Keeton, focuses on classic styles, and their Castillo IPA even won a gold medal at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival.

My companions started with two signature Margaritas, and I tried their special Maria Robust Porter and a shot of mezcal. Everyone was happy with their drinks.

For food, we had Patatas Bravas, fried Asparagus, and the soup of the day. Everything was well-prepared and tasty, especially the soup. Since we aren't big eaters, we couldn't try the main courses this time, but we plan to return soon.

The service was professional and attentive, adding to our positive experience. Alaro uses locally sourced ingredients, which really enhances the food. I also learned that "Alaro" reflects Ray Ballestero's family heritage, showing their commitment to community and tradition. If you're in the area, I recommend giving them a try!

places/ChIJQ39oHI3RmoARLa8laA8OeQ4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUR3bzd1ZTZBRRAB

Very much just a brewery-bar with bar food. I had the good fish and great tarter, but just meh chips/fries.  Others had an OK burger, some OK Brussels and OK octopus. The reason I say OK was because there was zero “hey, try this” at our table of eight. One person left in the middle to go walk the street fair.

So much for family/friends reunions.

Just ok food,  and a nice bar anyways. Music seemed to be hit or miss, loud not loud. Service was very substandard from our server that forgot basically everything, including bringing us waters and had to be asked twice for the departing checks.

Dicks

places/ChIJQ39oHI3RmoARLa8laA8OeQ4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUR3dnVxYm9RRRAB

Alaro: the backup plan that delivered.

We rolled in last minute, no reservation, no plan—wine in hand from our first-choice spot. I hadn’t even done my usual vegetarian menu sleuthing. Honestly? I expected to settle. But surprise surprise, this place delivered.

The menu has range. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, meat-lovers—everyone’s invited and no one’s stuck with a sad side salad. We love an inclusive queen.

Didn’t try the beer because, again, wine. But the food? Came in hot. It’s refined pub classics with a little tapas flair. Fried pickles. Onion dip. A grilled cheese that was crispy, golden, and somehow not a grease bomb. Add the grilled onions. Seriously. Just do it.

There’s a freshness here that a lot of places in this category miss. It doesn’t feel heavy or overdone—it feels like someone in the kitchen actually cares.

The service? Super friendly and clearly knew the menu. But yes, we had to ask for flatware. Multiple times. Which, when your food’s already on the table? A little chaotic.

Still—flavor wins. The vibe’s solid. I came in with low expectations and left thinking about what I want to try next.

Next time, I’m showing up with an appetite... and my own fork. Just in case. 🥄✨

How I break down my star reviews:
1 - No. Not if it was the last thing on DoorDash. 🗑️
2 - Meh. Maybe if I’m desperate, close, and high. 😬
3 - Mid. Not texting the group chat about it. 🤷‍♀️
4 - Hella solid. Planning my next visit. 😋
5 - Shut up and take my money. Om Nom Nom. 🔥

places/ChIJQ39oHI3RmoARLa8laA8OeQ4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURvaGJuXzNnRRAB

A must-visit!  Alaro is such a pretty brewey!  Even better?  Seriously awesome staff (Mason was great), and yummy beer!  Wish I had some food, but enjoyed some really good beer, so you need to visit!!

places/ChIJQ39oHI3RmoARLa8laA8OeQ4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNRLUwydDFBRRAB

The food and drinks were good. Had a flight of their beers, all brewed in-house and all were great. However, what really stood out was the service! The lady that sat us whom I’m guessing is management or the owner was very welcoming. She asked us what brings us in and we told her with were in for a concert and she puts on a song from the band which we though was very sweet! Our sever was very nice as well. Overall, great food, environment, and people!

Alaro Craft Brewery, Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

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