What do you do for an encore when you own a successful solar business that includes a new showroom next to Studio Movie Grill in Rocklin? Why not open a gastropub right next door and make the wall—not a door, the wall—between the two spaces swivel open to allow more room for the brew pub’s patrons on busy nights? Well, that’s exactly what The Brass Tap’s owners—Ed and Chad Fralick and Chad’s wife, Jackie—decided to do, despite not having previous restaurant or bar experience.

“It was something we’ve wanted to do for a long time,” Jackie told me over a flight of beer. Coming in under the franchise umbrella gave the construction-oriented partners a leg up on things like menu selection. 

I tested a few of the offerings, starting with their popular prime rib nachos. Made with beer cheese (more of a dip or spread), plus shredded cheddar, scallions, Peppadew peppers and jalapeños, with sour cream and salsa on the side, it was remniscent of a Philly cheesesteak on tortilla chips, which is hard to go wrong with—especially when paired alongside one of their cold local brews (they have 48 rotating taps) in your free hand. 

Of course, I had to try their version of a brewhouse staple: house-made tater tots. Opting for the “loaded” version means they’ll come topped with crispy bacon, beer cheese, Peppadew peppers, cilantro and onions. When it comes to potato preparations, Brass Tap’s—loaded or not—trumped all others. 

After the “shareables” had been devoured, I ordered Angus Sliders. Three hearty beef patties were accompanied by melty smoked Gouda and cowboy sauce—all piled into buttery brioche buns. Trust me when I say that the combo of ground chuck, brisket and short rib ensure napkin manufacturers’ profits for years to come. 

Lastly, I sampled the tempura beer-battered chicken tenders, because the name intrigued me. Tempura or beer batter—which one was it? Since it tasted good, I guess who really cares, right? Hand-breaded and served alongside tangy BBQ sauce, fries and coleslaw, it was one finger lickin’ good—and filling—plate of fare.

Rocklin’s shiny new craft beer bar is cozy, cool and tapped into what people want. Swing by soon to take a sip and see for yourself.    

by Lorn Randall   //  photos by Dante Fontana