SIPS

We had such a great experience at Mare Island Brewing! The historic building has so much character…read moreand such a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The big booths were perfect for bringing our toddlers along and made it so easy for everyone to settle in and enjoy themselves. The beer was terrific, the food was delicious, and the service was wonderful from start to finish. They also have a fun children's menu. It's not always easy finding a place where the adults can enjoy great beer and food while still feeling comfortable bringing little ones, and this checked all the boxes for us. We'll definitely be back!

Decided to go to Benicia for some salmon fishing over the Labor Day weekend. Everyone else had the…read moresame idea it seems because the fishing was overcrowded. So our party of 4 decided to call that a day and went to check out downtown Benicia, First St is lovely, full of small pubs, restaurants and shops. This taphouse looked interesting and there were a few people seated outside so we decided to check it out. It was a hot day and the server told us that the inside had AC so we decided to sit inside but there are several tables outside in the front of the taphouse and a separate area to the side of the restaurant with plenty of seating. There is a large bar to the left which leads into the kitchen area. There are several booths to the right and tables for seating in the middle of the space as well as bar seating. It was about 4:30 in the afternoon and the place was not full but there a few tables were occupied. The bar itself is very old, I was told almost 100years old and original and it is a standout feature. Beautiful. The decorations are pictures of how the place and Benicia used to look a 100 years or so back. i wanted to have a beer but don't like dark beers and when I asked the server for a suggestion, she got me a couple of samples. I liked the light beer and ordered that. We also ordered a Roy Rogers and a hop water which I was told was interesting. There is plenty of street parking but this was on holiday. I can see the parking getting tough on a weekend. I thought the prices for the food were expensive, especially for Benicia. We ordered 2 slider kid meals which were $11 each, came with kettle chips and an order of cheesesteak. It was good sized and also came with chips. Service was quick and they checked in on us to make sure that were doing fine. The only blip was when we needed the check and no one was coming around and I walked up to the bar to ask for the check and the server told me to go back to my seat and she will get it for me, it was unexpectedly abrupt. It was a nice place and I would recommend the restaurant.

Inside

Creamy chocolate stout dessert pudding with peanuts alongside our Chicken & Bacon Jam Panini.

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Crab and artichoke dip!

The Chill

4.4(125 reviews)

0.3 mi

The menu selections were broad enough to be interesting, but not so deep that it felt overwhelming…read more I created a tasting, taking it slow, and enjoyed each of my selections. Starting with the Mt. Beautiful Estate Sauvignon Blanc, found this good. It's good, but not great. It's a decent wine but I think there are other more interesting Australian wines out there. The Rabble Rosé from Paso Robles was crisp with just an edge of tart. Like roasted strawberries, if that makes sense. And the Seaglass Riesling from the central coast is now a fave. It's a sweeter wine and a good end to a tasting, for sure. Glad I explored that one. It far exceeded my expectations. The vibe is good. The team is wonderful, caring and attentive, even if their internet went down and they weren't able to process cards quickly. They kept their frustrations focused on the tech and their attention on their customers. And the people who come in - there for a good time. This was our first experience here. We'll be back, for sure!

Really disappointed with my experience today. I'm a local in Benicia and have been here before, but…read morethis visit completely changed my perception. I was not allowed with my 5 month old baby to have a glass of wine in the patio. I was told there's a "no under 21" rule that apparently includes babies. That honestly didn't make sense to me. this is an infant, not even eating solid food yet. I've been to wineries in Napa with my baby and never had an issue, so this felt unwelcoming. This felt like a made up rule to protect non-mother customers, and Benicia is known for that. Horrible. What made it worse was how it was handled. The waitress(blonde, short hair mid-aged lady) came off rude and said, "no under 21, sorry--unless it's a dog haha," and then told me I could go to the taphouse on the corner. It felt dismissive and unprofessional. I even tried calling afterward to speak with a manager, but no one answered. Overall, it left a really bad impression, and I don't feel comfortable coming back after this.

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Cullen's Tannery Pub & Saloon

4.6(74 reviews)

0.3 mi

Nice hole in the wall bar. Good vibes. The bartenders a good guy. I forget his name but I would…read moredefinitely come back and visit.

I have been popping in here for years. It is a small bar with lots of regulars. They also have…read moreoutdoor seating and you can buy food from Char's hot dogs and they will deliver to you. There is a room in back that feels like a speakeasy. They do alcohol tasting and education. There are a lot of bars on First St but their business model makes them stand out from the rest

Tasting events in Cullen's Saloon

Inside the bar

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Lagunitas IPA

Brix & Craft

4.6(290 reviews)

2.6 mi

We were in Martinez for a short stay and hopped in here. First thing to know: it's much more a bar…read morethan a restaurant. We sat at the bar. The happy hour margarita was just plain excellent. A cab of red lager: very good. Dinner was a house salad with very fresh greens and the pear flatbread. Honestly both were great. Much better than normal bar food. Great bartender.

All stars Went to Brix & Craft on a Friday night and had…read moregreat drinks. The bartender was very friendly and even made a bartender's choice special for my friend, which was delicious. The place was busy, but she handled it well and kept checking on everyone. I always enjoy coming here for good wine, drinks, and conversation. Great spot to meet up with friends or coworkers!

Napoleon + caramelized onion and tomato. Excellent! Crispy bottom

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Tom Collins with mint

Benicia Veteran's Memorial Hall

4.3(18 reviews)

0.3 mi

I can only think of nice things to say about this venue. It was perfect for my daughter's party and…read morewas just the right size. Matthew was incredibly helpful and kind throughout the entire process. Communication is so important when planning an event and he always responded promptly with clarity and understanding. The only thing I'd note is that if you're hosting a summer event, it can get pretty warm inside even with the AC running. We had a full house so I'm sure that played a big part. The AC just couldn't quite keep up! Overall, I would absolutely book this venue again for another event. You can't beat the location and I always felt that my guests and I were in a safe area. Highly recommend!

Great place for military retires,, all active duty are very welcome,, lots of on the moment…read morecelebrations and games and parking is close by. Nice to chill out and meet the best people in Benicia

Cakes by Jennifercakes

Cake Cart front right corner Prop table

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Superbowl Party

One Stop Liquor and Food 2

4.0(21 reviews)

0.6 mi

Workers are very nice and amazing drink selection compared to other stores in the area. Best store…read morein the city by far.

The best liquor/corner store in Benicia My friend and i hit up 5 different stores looking for a…read morecertain type of soda (Faygo) When we walked in, the associates offered us assistance and we asked them if they carried it They assisted us and thoroughly checked their inventory and we ended up finding what we were looking for They even offered to pour it up in cup with ice for us and I was surprised by the low price I paid for 4 drinks Overall a great shop with great service and great selections

Faygo

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Weller Bourbon Whiskey available here.

Five Suns Brewing

4.4(197 reviews)

2.6 mi

After spending time exploring downtown Martinez's antique shops and farmers market, we headed over…read moreto Five Suns Brewing Company for lunch and refreshments. It was a beautiful day, perfect for sitting outside and listening to live music. The staff was extremely helpful, answering all of our questions and even offering tastes of their beers and sours. I'm not usually a fan of sours, so I went with the Ernst Amber Ale, while my friends ordered the Cosmo Sour and the P-Wing Sour. For sours, they were surprisingly tasty. I may have to give them another chance. Street Steam Bunz was the food truck of the day, and we ordered rice bowls with bulgogi beef and chicken katsu. Both were served with fried rice, ginger, and pickled cucumbers, and everything was delicious. A great way to spend a Sunday. Five Suns and Street Steam Bunz both earn five stars from me.

Love this place, good beer and rotating food truck options. Please update outdoor tables.read more

Where the magic happens

GHOST MOON PILSNER 5.0%

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The Dram Shop

4.8(4 reviews)

1.4 mi

•$$$

First time, and won't be the last. This place is truly a hidden gem. We got there before the crowd,…read morethey started rolling in around 7. Great selection of mixed drinks, wine and beer. Very cool decor and the staff was amazing. Oh and the food! The food was absolutely delicious. No one wanted to share at my table because everything was so good ha perfectly cooked and flavorful.

We had the best drinks and dinner at Dram Shop tonight! The…read morechicory salad was outstanding, followed by the pork shoulder stew for my husband and the chili cheese fries for me. Husband loved the spicy stew. I know chili cheese fries bring a picture to your mind, but refine that! The most delicious cranberry beans on the most crispy fries with crusty cheese, cilantro and lime sour cream! As a vegetarian, I rarely get served something so perfectly full of flavor!

Different food every Wednesday

Last Rites pop-up preview shot

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Logo and blinds

Hillside Tap Room & Eatery

4.0(103 reviews)

2.4 mi

This place is a hidden gem. This place has some of the best beer around my with lots of good…read morechoices. My favorite is the Red Trolly which is a Red Ale. If you're looking for a cool place to hang out, close by the waterfront here in Martinez, look no further and choose hillside taproom.

P's Way is the only way…read more That's literally what I'd tell someone if they were confused about what kind of wings to get. You look at the description and you almost wonder if all of that is a little...too much. I'm here to tell you that it's not. It's the only way. There's just something about the zing and tang of combining both the Lemon Pepper with the Buffalo sauce that takes the flavors to a whole new level. On top of that you get a hint of sweetness with the hot honey. These are some of my favorite wings in town. Possibly actual favorite. I need to come back and have them again really soon. But just know that if you are wings fan, you gotta try P's Way. The Fish and Chips and Mac were also good. The Fish seemed a little less flavorful than I thought it was gonna be. The fries made it up for them though. I couldn't stop munching on those. The Mac was solid. Nothing out of the ordinary, but a just really good dish that was straight to the point. I just obviously was super obsessed with these wings when I went. The inside is very homey. Has a more publike vibe. I walk in and almost imagine that I'm on the water or at a pier or something. The people working here are usually very nice. The very last time I came here a guy took my order and forgot one of our items but I think he was new. Luckily this girl with a long blonde ponytail who had served us before asked us if we got everything. When we told her about our missing item she apologized a whole bunch and made everything better. Oh and of course they have amazing beers. Our favorites are the rotation of Dark Beers, Mexican Lagers and Ciders that they have. We have yet to ever have a bad pour. Im pretty sure if you like beer there should be something for everyone. Even Wine slushies if you don't care for beer. Hillside was one of me and my wife's places we would go to when we shortly lived in Martinez. Even though we are a bridge away, we can't wait to come back sometime soon.

Inside

The chile bowl

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Interior

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Rochelle D.

Elite 23

125

261

295

3 years ago

If you're a whiskey aficionado like me, then Sendsips in Benicia is an absolute paradise! I recently visited this specialty liquor retailer and was blown away by their impressive selection and knowledgeable staff. It was a true delight to find coveted bottles like Blanton's and Angel's Envy in their inventory. From the moment I stepped into Sendsips, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The store has a charming layout, with neatly organized shelves showcasing a wide variety of spirits. The whiskey section is particularly impressive, with an extensive range of options that would satisfy any connoisseur's palate. I had my sights set on acquiring a bottle of Blanton's and Angel's Envy, and Sendsips did not disappoint. They had both in stock, and the staff was incredibly helpful in assisting me with my selection. Their expertise and passion for whiskey were evident as they provided detailed information about each bottle, including tasting notes and recommendations for food pairings. The customer service at Sendsips is truly exceptional. The staff members were friendly, approachable, and genuinely interested in helping me find the perfect whiskey. They patiently answered all my questions and even shared their personal experiences with different brands. It's evident that they take pride in their craft and strive to provide an exceptional shopping experience. In addition to their outstanding selection and service, Sendsips also offers competitive prices. I found their prices to be reasonable and in line with other specialty liquor retailers. It's refreshing to know that I can indulge in my passion without breaking the bank. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of spirits, Sendsips is a must-visit destination. They cater to all tastes and budgets, making it a haven for whiskey enthusiasts. The combination of their impressive selection, knowledgeable staff, and welcoming atmosphere creates an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend Sendsips to anyone looking for specialty liquors in Benicia. Whether you're seeking popular labels or rare finds, you'll find it all under one roof. I'm already planning my next visit to discover more hidden gems at Sendsips. Cheers to this remarkable establishment! read more

Kam K.

7 months ago

We absolutely love SIPS Bottle Emporium! The store is always clean, organized, and easy to access with their own convenient parking lot. The customer service is consistently friendly and knowledgeable and they're especially great at making recommendations for parties and large events. They offer bulk (6) mix and match discounts on their already competitive pricing, which makes ordering for weddings, corporate events, stocking up and celebrations so much easier. They even create custom cocktail kits, which are such a fun and unique touch for gifts or event favors. SIPS carries so much more than just alcohol. Their large non-alcoholic section is impressive, and they have candy and unique treats that feel like a trip down memory lane. During the holidays, it's stocking stuffer galore! We also love their "Benicia - Where $1 Goes Back" program, where $1 from every bottle supports the local community in Benicia. Plus, being open 365 days a year makes them incredibly convenient. If you're looking for hard-to-find bottles, great prices (plenty of delicious options around $10), custom cocktail kits, and a business that truly gives back -- SIPS is the place to go. Support SMALL! read more

Shayan S.

3 years ago

I recently visited Sendsips, a liquor shop that left me utterly impressed and thoroughly satisfied. The moment I entered, I was greeted by a knowledgeable and friendly staff who guided me through their vast collection of spirits with genuine passion and expertise. Sendsips boasts an impeccably organized layout, making it effortless to navigate and discover their wide-ranging selection. From beloved classics to rare gems, their diverse product offering catered to every taste. The meticulous attention to detail in both their displays and the quality of each bottle showcased their unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether you're an experienced connoisseur or a curious novice, Sendsips is the ultimate destination for an exceptional shopping experience, offering an extraordinary variety, impeccable service, and a true haven for liquor enthusiasts. read more

Kammy H.

1 year ago

SIPS is hands down one of the best shops in Benicia! Whether you're looking for a great bottle of wine, craft beer, premium spirits, or a unique gift, this place has it all. The store is beautifully organized and always spotless. You can tell a lot of care goes into the selection--they even offer custom cocktail kits, nostalgic snacks, cigars, and gift items that make it easy to grab something special on the go. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and never pushy. They're genuinely happy to help and make great recommendations based on your taste or occasion. I also love the local vibe and the fact that celebrities like Steph Curry, 50 Cent, Paul Wall, Guy Fieri, have all visited!! This is my go-to spot for thoughtful gifts and celebratory drinks! read more

Katherine C.

3 years ago

Sendsips is just perfect for downtown Benicia. I often go in for a bottle of wine for the weekend. And they have a great selection of craft beers as well as liquor. The service is always excellent. The shop keeper always takes time to go over any questions I have and seems to have a thorough knowledge of all of his stock. It's a cute little shop down one of Benicia's adorable alleyways. read more

Jessica B.

2 years ago

Just scored some rare German beers at Sips, including Weihenstephaner and Schneider Weisse! Great selection at a reasonable price, and the staff was super helpful, and the staff even helped me carry everything out. Ended up buying them all - highly recommend checking them out! read more

Surjeet S.

2 years ago

Sips has this super hard-to-find ube cream liqueur, and it's seriously so good! Smooth, creamy, and just the right amount of ube flavor. I've been adding it to drinks and it's a game changer. If you spot it, definitely grab a bottle--you won't regret it! read more

Annabelle S.

4 years ago

Exactly what Benicia needed!! Came in to check it out and ended up leaving with a fine bottle of red & even got my hubby and I names put onto the bottle!! read more

Sterling F.

200

1 year ago

Now both green and yellow are almost $60 over retail. Wtf? Pass. Once again, if you want to be a nice store and not some secondary scalper, act like it. read more

D H.

3 years ago

Excellent prices and selection. Wine, beers, cigars, craft sodas. Easy to park. Fun to shop. Trackman golf simulator in the back for rent.

SIPS - beer_and_wine - Updated September 2026

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