Courtesy of Lou’s Beer Garden

Tucked away in the New Hotel, many North Beach residents find haven in an oasis, which isn’t made up of water…This oasis, or Lou’s Beer Garden, is known for its micro beers and distinctive craft drink selections. Executive chef and owner Luis “Lou” Ramirez says his handpicked selection of microbrews are among the most unique in town.

“We are the place for micro beers and craft cocktails,” said Ramirez. “We have an excellent drink program that my wife, Ann, helps curate that we make sure to compliment with our menu. During the summertime we will serve a lot more fish and during the winter we will have more duck, venison and even ostrich burgers on the menu.”

Courtesy of Lou’s Beer Garden

On yelp.com, the establishment receives four out of five stars with many guests raving about the atmosphere, food and variety in drink options.

“Lou’s Beer Garden by now is an established institution in North Beach,” said resident Megan Fitzpatrick. “Lou is the best host around… The best reason for going, other than the beer, is the food they offer”

Open since April 2009, the North Beach hotspot was featured in Esquire’s seventh annual Best Bars in America for 2012. Ramirez has become an advocate for the area and can be found at a variety of public hearings advocating for the area and its preservation.

“It’s [North Beach] fresh and upcoming,” he said. “The area has so much potential and it won’t turn into another South Beach because it’s more family oriented with more small businesses that operate in the area.”

The building is completely renovated and was built under the preservation board’s guidelines when it opened. This was before any talks about making North Beach a historical area.

“I thought this was a good opportunity for us to protect the historic significance of the building,” he said.

Courtesy of Lou’s Beer Garden

Lou’s participates each month with the programming at the North Beach Bandshell. Starting on May 17, the venue will host a “Brazilian Invasion Sundays” that promises brunch, beer, caipirihnas and vintage Brazilian underground sounds from 12 to 8 pm.

The restaurant is located at 7337 Harding Ave and for more information, visit www.lousbeergarden.com