Beer Dog

Someone tells me recently that there are no new ideas, just ideas that recycle, improve and grow popular again. I suppose.

But, honestly: bikes, beer and dogs. I’m overjoyed.

We fight our way to the bar to place our orders after browsing a decent menu of choices. IPAs and a light blonde lead the way to a chewy black stout. I’m distracted from my beer by a dog bellied up to the bar next to its owner. A yipping erupts from two small bodies underneath a stool further down.

We are no exception. Our weekend guest is a curly goldendoodle and she accompanies us, thoroughly entertained by the action around her.

It’s the idea of it more than the place itself. Bike Dog Brewing Company in West Sacramento is small, crowded and loud. Bikes are part of the equation in that the microbrewery owners love bicycling in their spare time. Bikes are prominent in the décor.

Bike Dog occupies a nondescript space in a light industrial area. Once through the front door, however, the atmosphere improves greatly with a regular bar and tables that are open to the brewery’s vats.

In the back, a large metal roll-up door leads to an alley where a food truck provides burgers, tacos or other bar food.

It’s a winning combination. This place has joined the rapidly growing microbrewery fad that threatens to overbuild and fade.

To me, this is part of the charm too. Hopping in and out of crazes is fun. Don’t tell me that history has already provided this intersection of beer, dogs and bikes.

I’m just enjoying the moment.