Photo by Dante Fontana 

© Style Media Group

Since I had just slayed some weighted Bulgarian split squats at the gym, I went to EDH Brewing Co. knowing I would order a bowl of Chili cooked with brewer’s beer (hello, protein). I was almost tempted by the chili fries, but when the cheese-topped chili came out, I was more than satisfied with my choice. Big enough to be my dinner, the bowl only set me back five bucks. The chili was unique and tasted completely homemade, with the flavors of tomato, corn, and yes—beer—stealing the show. To drink, I picked the Flight of Tasters—five of their current on-tap offerings. There was the refreshing Grapefruit IPA, smooth Pale Ale, rich Caramel Amber, fresh Tangerine, and crisp, Kolsch-style Trailblazer. Delicious, all. The atmosphere was so informal and the staff so friendly, I felt like I was hanging out with my brewer friend sampling his recent experiments. There were patrons with kids (my own in tow), people on dates, and lone rangers at the bar. It was what I would imagine a neighborhood Irish pub to be like, but with chalk paint in the shape of a beer bottle and tons of board games. Come over for weekly game nights, or play one whenever you visit. Like I said, you’re among friends.

EDH Brewing Co., 875 Embarcadero Drive, El Dorado Hills. 916-939-6827.

—Dayana Stockdale