ビール醸造のプロも愛読！ホップの魅力がわかる『THE NEW IPA』
歴史好き必見！『ビール大全』で深掘り
『ビールのつくりかた大事典』で醸造プロセスを学ぼう
“Amazingly aromatic hops, yet surprisingly drinkable!” That’s the experience awaiting you at Green Cheek Beer Co. in Costa Mesa, California. Known as a master of both West Coast and Hazy IPAs, this brewery has been collecting awards since its founding in 2017. In this article, I’ll share my experience from my February 2025 visit and guide you through everything Green Cheek has to offer!
What You’ll Learn in This Article
- Green Cheek Beer Co.’s basic information and brewing philosophy
- Detailed tasting notes for 5 recommended beers
- Taproom atmosphere and ordering tips
- Nearby brewery recommendations
- Costa Mesa accommodation and transportation info
- 【Basic Info】About Green Cheek Beer Co.
- 【Location Info】Finding Green Cheek Beer Co.
- 【Visitor Experience】What’s the Taproom Like?
- Green Cheek Beer Co. Ordering Guide
- 【Tasting Notes】My Green Cheek Beer Recommendations
- 【2025 Update】Over 20 Different Beers on Tap!
- 【Beer Enthusiast’s Corner】What Do Green Cheek’s Beers Taste Like?
- 【Behind the Beer】Green Cheek’s History and Brewers’ Story
- 【For Beer Lovers】Other Great Breweries Nearby!
- 【Local Info】What’s Costa Mesa Like?
- American Craft Beer Adventures
- 【Conclusion】Green Cheek Beer Co.: A Modern WCIPA Paradise!
【Basic Info】About Green Cheek Beer Co.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Brewery Name | Green Cheek Beer Co. |
| Location | 2957 Randolph Av unit B, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 |
| Hours | Mon-Thu: 12:00-8:00 PM Fri-Sat: 12:00-10:00 PM Sun: 12:00-6:00 PM (Hours may vary, please check before visiting) |
| Official Website | https://www.greencheekbeer.com |
| Established | 2017 |
| Founders | Evan Price, Brian Rauso |
| Signature Styles | West Coast IPA, Hazy IPA |
| Brewing Philosophy | Emphasis on aroma over bitterness, quality-first approach, innovation and experimentation, commitment to fresh beer |
| Flagship Beers | West Coast is Dead, Pet the Tiger ’25, Don’t Pet the Tiger ’25 |
| Amenities | Taproom, food menu, merchandise |
| Special Notes | Area safety varies; Uber recommended for late night travel |
【Beginner’s Guide: West Coast IPA】
West Coast IPA is an IPA style that developed on America’s west coast, characterized by its clear appearance and powerful hop bitterness and aroma. Traditional versions tend to be quite bitter, but modern breweries like Green Cheek have evolved the style to reduce bitterness while emphasizing hop aroma and drinkability. These beers typically have higher alcohol content (6-7%+ ABV) than standard beers, but Green Cheek’s versions are remarkably approachable despite their strength.
【Location Info】Finding Green Cheek Beer Co.
【Visitor Experience】What’s the Taproom Like?
Green Cheek’s taproom feels like you’re hanging out at a friend’s place! It’s casual and welcoming, with plenty of families with children making it a relaxed environment for everyone. While Saturday evenings get busy, the staff is incredibly efficient, so you won’t spend much time waiting for your beer.
The walls are decorated with Green Cheek’s cute characters, and there’s even a message saying “Smile while you drink!” that warms your heart. These little touches really show the personality behind this brewery!
Their food menu is excellent and pairs perfectly with the beers. Many customers were enjoying delicious meals alongside their drinks. Of course, they also offer a wide selection of souvenirs like t-shirts, hoodies, and glassware. You might find yourself thinking, “I should get a t-shirt to remember this place!”
How to Order
Green Cheek Beer Co. Ordering Guide
At Green Cheek Beer Co., you order directly at the counter. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make ordering easy, even if English isn’t your first language:
Beer names can be unique and hard to pronounce, so taking a photo of the tap list and pointing to what you want is a safe strategy!
| Step 1: | Order by saying “Can I have a pint of [beer name]?” |
| Step 2: | When asked “Tab, Open? Close?” choose open tab for paying later or closed for paying immediately |
| Step 3: | Show ID if asked for age verification (passport or driver’s license) |
| Step 4: | Pay with cash, Apple Pay, or credit card |
| Step 5: | Select tip amount on the tablet and sign |
| Step 6: | Pick up your beer from the counter |
Beers are typically served in 16oz (about 470ml) glasses, but for beginners who want to try various styles, a flight (a set of smaller glasses to sample different beers) is highly recommended! If you’re not sure what to order, don’t hesitate to ask the staff about their preferences. Something like “I’d like to try a juicy Hazy IPA. Any recommendations?” will usually get you great suggestions about seasonal specialties or popular options.
【Beginner’s Guide: Beer Flight】
A flight is a tasting set that offers multiple beer varieties in smaller portions. Typically featuring 4-6 beers in small glasses (about 5oz or 150ml each), flights let you compare different styles side by side. They’re perfect for first-time visitors to a brewery or anyone wanting to sample a variety of beers without committing to full pours. At Green Cheek, you can select your own beers or ask the staff to create a curated flight of their recommendations.
【Tasting Notes】My Green Cheek Beer Recommendations
Now for the main event! Let me introduce you to the beers I tried—each with its own unique character and all absolutely delicious!
Pet the Tiger ’25 (California IPA, 7.2% ABV)
This super-popular IPA uses Citra and Mosaic hops! It’s a perfect choice even for craft beer beginners.
| Flavor Profile | Intensity (1-5) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Bitterness | 3/5 | Restrained but present, enhances hop flavors |
| Sweetness | 2/5 | Light malt sweetness with tropical fruit notes |
| Acidity | 1/5 | Almost none, subtle citrus freshness |
| Body | 3/5 | Medium mouthfeel with excellent balance |
| Aroma Intensity | 5/5 | Rich citrus and tropical aromas from Citra and Mosaic hops |
ルネちゃん
What was your first impression?
りほ
I was amazed by how clear and light it was while still being so “dank” – the modernity and cleanliness work together perfectly! The combination of Citra and Mosaic hops creates this incredible citrus and tropical fruit aroma that’s just delightful!
Don’t Pet the Tiger ’25 (California TIPA, 10.3% ABV)
This is the high-alcohol version of Pet the Tiger! “TIPA” stands for Triple IPA, meaning it has a higher alcohol content than regular IPAs. It’s malty and substantial, yet somehow slides down your throat with surprising ease! It has the seemingly contradictory qualities of being “light yet heavy” – quite the brewing achievement.
| Flavor Profile | Intensity (1-5) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Bitterness | 3.5/5 | Not overpowering, balanced and pleasant |
| Sweetness | 3/5 | Substantial malt sweetness with caramel notes |
| Acidity | 1/5 | Almost none |
| Body | 4/5 | Full-bodied yet still drinkable |
| Aroma Intensity | 4.5/5 | Complex harmony of hop and malt aromas |
ルネちゃん
Was it easy to drink despite being a TIPA?
りほ
This was my favorite! You’d never guess it’s 10% alcohol from how drinkable it is. The high ABV is completely hidden, which really showcases Green Cheek’s technical brewing skill.
【Beginner’s Guide: TIPA】
TIPA (Triple IPA) is a powerful IPA style with an even higher alcohol content (typically 10%+) than standard IPAs. Brewed with more malt, they usually have a rich, intense flavor profile, though Green Cheek manages to create versions that don’t overwhelm with their alcohol strength. TIPAs are often considered “warming” beers, particularly suited for winter or colder climates, and are typically enjoyed in smaller servings.
Flying South (Mexican-style Lager, 5.0% ABV)
This refreshing Mexican lager is perfect for hot days! While this is a simple beer style, it actually tests a brewery’s skill—and Green Cheek excels at it! The beer has a crisp, clean character that showcases the brewery’s attention to detail.
| Flavor Profile | Intensity (1-5) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Bitterness | 1.5/5 | Mild bitterness, clean finish |
| Sweetness | 1/5 | Subtle grain sweetness |
| Acidity | 1/5 | Very low, clean profile |
| Body | 2/5 | Light, crisp mouthfeel |
| Aroma Intensity | 2/5 | Delicate grain aromatics with subtle hop notes |
ルネちゃん
How does this compare to other Mexican lagers?
りほ
Green Cheek’s clean brewing style really shines in this Mexican lager! It’s exceptionally crisp and refreshing with perfect balance. Their technical precision creates a more refined version than many others I’ve tried – it’s the ultimate refreshment on a hot day.
【2025 Update】Over 20 Different Beers on Tap!
The tap list during my February 15, 2025 visit was incredible! With categories including SELTZER, LIGHT, HOPPY, IPA/DIPA, HAZY, and SOUR, you’ll have a hard time choosing what to drink. They also offer wine and non-alcoholic beers, so everyone in your group can enjoy something, even those who don’t drink alcohol.
Recommended Beers by Category
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find, organized by category:
LIGHT (Lighter Beers)
- More Special – Czech-style pilsner with refreshing Saaz hops (4.6% ABV)
- Flying South – Mexican-style lager, perfect for summer! (5.0% ABV)
- Oh Yeah, No… Totally! – Authentic German-style pilsner with a uniquely playful name (5.2% ABV)
- Vienna Lager – Austrian-style amber lager with a beautiful amber color (5.2% ABV)
HOPPY (Hop-Forward Beers)
- Pallyfornia – West Coast-style pilsner with Mosaic, Rakau, and NZ Cascade hops (4.6% ABV)
- You Can’t Be Fancy All the Time – A collaboration with Breakside, this unique Rice IPA features Cryo hops, Mosaic, Rakau, and pineapple (6.8% ABV)
- DDH Birds Are Real – Uses three different forms of Citra hops, a must-try for Citra fans! (6.8% ABV)
IPA / DIPA (India Pale Ales and Double IPAs)
- Pet the Tiger ’25 – Their flagship beer! A golden combination of Citra and Mosaic hops (7.2% ABV)
- I Knew That Years Ago – A playfully named Double IPA (9.2% ABV)
- Don’t Pet the Tiger ’25 – Named “Don’t Pet the Tiger,” this stronger Triple IPA is surprisingly drinkable! (10.3% ABV)
【Beer Enthusiast’s Corner】What Do Green Cheek’s Beers Taste Like?
If I had to describe Green Cheek’s beers in one phrase, it would be “aromatic yet drinkable!” Their IPAs aren’t excessively bitter; instead, they highlight the aromatic qualities of hops like Citra and Mosaic. The perfect balance of fruity aromas and clean flavors is their true strength!
ルネちゃん
What makes Green Cheek unique?
りほ
They’re amazingly clean while still being hop-forward! It feels like they’re making a statement about what a modern WCIPA should be. Their ability to balance hop aroma with freshness is truly remarkable.
Their West Coast IPA Focus is Impressive
Green Cheek puts special emphasis on West Coast IPAs. While traditional WCIPAs are known for being “clear and bitter,” Green Cheek has updated the style for modern palates—reducing bitterness while emphasizing aroma and delivering a clean finish. Their beers have depth that appeals even to those who aren’t beer connoisseurs; anyone can take a sip and think, “Wow, this is good!”
【Behind the Beer】Green Cheek’s History and Brewers’ Story
A Brewery Born from Friendship
Green Cheek Beer Co. was founded in 2017 by two friends, Evan Price and Brian Rauso. When they opened their first brewery in Orange on June 20, 2017, they had just one staff member! Their vision was beautiful: “to create an environment like hanging out on a friend’s porch, enjoying good beer and conversation.”
Evan Price was previously the head brewer at Noble Ale Works, establishing his credentials as a talented brewer. He met Brian Rauso, who came from the IT industry, at another brewery in Orange County. They shared a vision: “We want to make beer that’s true to ourselves! We want to contribute more to the beer community!” Their friendship and passion gave birth to Green Cheek!
Their Three Brewing Principles
Green Cheek’s brewing is guided by these three core principles:
- Commitment to Quality: A craftsman’s attention to detail in everything from ingredient selection to brewing process. Their “no compromise” attitude is evident in every sip.
- Playful Innovation: They actively incorporate new hop varieties and brewing techniques, constantly pushing boundaries. They turn “wouldn’t it be cool if…” ideas into reality.
- Freshness First!: They firmly believe beer should be enjoyed fresh! That’s why they regularly release new creations and ensure they’re serving the freshest beer possible.
Impressive Award History!
What’s really impressive about Green Cheek is their consistent recognition at major beer competitions! They’ve won numerous medals at the World Beer Cup and Great American Beer Festival—essentially the Olympics of beer competitions. Their performance in 2023 and 2024 was particularly outstanding!
| Competition | Year | Beer Name | Category | Medal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| World Beer Cup | 2024 | Chance Favors The Prepared Mind | Imperial India Pale Ale | Gold |
| Great American Beer Festival | 2024 | Jeff’s Baltic Porter | Strong Porter | Gold |
| World Beer Cup | 2023 | Shhhhhh…This Is Ryan’s Award Winning Brown Ale | English-Style Brown Ale | Gold |
| World Beer Cup | 2023 | Wherever You Go | Juicy or Hazy India Pale Ale | Gold |
| World Beer Cup | 2024 | False Memories | West Coast IPA | Silver |
| Great American Beer Festival | 2024 | Josh’s New Tiny Shoes | Session India Pale Ale | Silver |
| World Beer Cup | 2023 | Guava In Berlin! | Specialty Berliner-Style Weisse | Silver |
| World Beer Cup | 2024 | It Just Works | Cold IPA | Bronze |
【For Beer Lovers】Other Great Breweries Nearby!
While you’re visiting Green Cheek, why not check out other nearby breweries? Costa Mesa is a beer paradise!
- Everywhere Beer Co. (1501 W Orangewood Ave Ste. 101, Orange, CA 92868)
Opened in 2022, this rising star brewery was founded by former members of The Bruery. “They really experiment with different styles!” Their varied lineup is a major draw. - Bottle Logic Brewing (1072 N Armando St, Anaheim, CA 92806)
Established in 2013, this veteran brewery is known particularly for their barrel-aged imperial stouts—so good that releases draw long lines! They’re also adventurous with experimental brewing, so you might discover flavor combinations you never imagined possible. - Salty Bear Brewing Co. (2948 Randolph Ave., Unit C, Costa Mesa, CA 92626)
Just steps away from Green Cheek! This community-focused brewery offers a cozy tasting room with a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for “just dropping in for a quick pint!” - Gunwhale Ales (2960 Randolph Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626)
Also right nearby! While they make good IPAs, they also specialize in Belgian-style beers like saisons and farmhouse ales. A great option for those thinking “I want to try something besides IPA.”
【Local Info】What’s Costa Mesa Like?
Costa Mesa is a craft beer mecca in Orange County, California! This area has become a haven for beer enthusiasts with its concentration of quality breweries. However, it’s worth noting that some areas have safety concerns. Compared to the national average, certain neighborhoods have slightly higher crime rates, so using rideshare services like Uber for late-night travel is recommended. That said, daytime visits are completely fine and safe to enjoy!
Recommended Accommodation
I recommend the “Travelodge by Wyndham Orange County Airport/Costa Mesa,” about a 20-minute walk from Green Cheek! It offers reasonable prices for clean rooms with good amenities. The biggest advantage is its location—perfect as a home base for brewery hopping! Even if you have a few too many, it’s just a quick Uber ride back.
American Craft Beer Adventures
As a current Seattle resident, I’m documenting my journey through the craft beer scenes of America and Canada. From popular breweries in Los Angeles to hidden gems in Portland and unique taprooms in Vancouver, I’m sharing reports from brewery visits across North America. Check out my content exploring limited local releases, conversations with brewers, and deep dives into North American beer culture on my category page:
Frequently Asked Questions
| Q: Can you tour Green Cheek Beer Co.’s brewery? |
| A: While they don’t typically offer formal brewery tours, the taproom is positioned so you can see the brewing equipment while enjoying your beer. Special events sometimes include brewery tours, so check their official website and social media for announcements. |
| Q: Can I take beer to go? |
| A: Yes! They offer cans and bottles for takeaway, plus growler fills (in special containers designed for taking draft beer home). Popular limited releases can sell out quickly, so arriving early is recommended if you’re planning to take some home. |
| Q: Is it comfortable for a solo Japanese visitor? |
| A: Absolutely! The staff is very friendly and accommodating, even if your English isn’t fluent. You can easily order by pointing to items on the tap list, and the local regulars are often happy to chat. It’s an ideal place to experience American craft beer culture. |
【Conclusion】Green Cheek Beer Co.: A Modern WCIPA Paradise!
Green Cheek Beer Co. has rapidly gained recognition in the craft beer world for beers that are less bitter but deeply aromatic—”approachable yet complex!” Their Pet the Tiger and Don’t Pet the Tiger series exemplify this approach: clear, dry, aromatic, and truly representative of modern West Coast IPAs.
According to their website, “IPAs are a big part of our identity,” and their dedication to the craft is evident. No wonder they’ve swept so many medals at international beer competitions!
The relationship between Evan and Brian as “longtime friends with a love for beer and community” is reflected in the warm atmosphere of their brewery. Starting with just one staff member and a dream to create “a place like enjoying good beer and conversation on a friend’s porch,” they’ve grown into a popular brewery with four locations—truly inspiring!
Green Cheek’s beers, which embody both quality and innovation, captivate everyone from craft beer novices to experts. If you have a chance to visit Orange County, California, be sure to stop by one of Green Cheek’s four locations. Spending time in their friendly taproom enjoying world-class craft beer will surely become a wonderful memory of your trip!
Have you tried Green Cheek’s beer before? If you have any thoughts or favorite beers, please share in the comments!
Learn more about IPAs here | American Brewery Visit Reports
コメント