Let me tell you why I keep coming back here…read more
It's not just the beer, although Bootleggers has plenty of that. It's the patio.
There's something about the outdoor space here that makes Bootleggers feel like a little beer oasis tucked just far enough away from the hustle of downtown Fullerton. There are plenty of covered tables, lots of shade, and a large, permanently covered section with a giant TV showing sports and other important television events. When they have live music, it's usually the kind that actually improves the atmosphere rather than taking it over, you know, good musicians, good music, but still chill enough that you can have a conversation.
And, of course, there's the beer. They have a really solid and diverse selection, with several IPAs, stouts, seltzers, and other options usually available, plus a selection of beers from other local breweries. It's hard to imagine coming here and not finding something you like. If you can't you're just an openly hostile person. Consider meditation.
There's a food truck parked along the side that has basically become part of the Bootleggers landscape. And while outside food is no longer allowed, that's not really a hardship because the food is actually pretty damn good. The sandwiches, salads, and other offerings are all solid, but the fried pickles are the real reason I keep coming back. They're cut lengthwise, breaded just right, and fried until they're perfectly crunchy. Basically big, tart, crunchy submarines of fair food fun. I have a difficult time going to Bootleggers without ordering them. Every. Single.
It's close enough to downtown Fullerton to walk to, but just far enough off the beaten path that the patio feels removed from the usual bar scene chaos. The street is nearby, but you barely notice it. It's just a nice place to sit outside, drink a good beer, listen to some music, watch a game, and hang out for a while.
Sometimes you don't need another crowded bar with loud music and a $16 cocktail. Sometimes you just want a good beer, some shade, and a plate of ridiculously good fried pickles.
Bootleggers does that really well.