Fans of San Diego's Stone Brewing Co. should be very happy to learn that they'll soon be saving themselves a 2-hour drive south. Greg Koch's popular brewery, which has grown over its 16-year history to become 11th largest craft brewery in America, is planning on opening a new bottle shop in Pasadena, possibly as early as late summer.

Located in the Del Mar Metro Station complex on Raymond Ave., the space will function a bit like Bruery Provisions in Orange, a hangout spot where no beer is actually brewed — but where hopheads can stop by to pick up a newly released bottles, fill up growler jugs with draft beer, enjoy a pint, or opt for a beer tasting menu. Home brewing gear and Stone merchandise will be available too.

The move is being hailed as further validation of Los Angeles' rapid rise to prominence in Southern California's beer scene. Stone's new store will certainly be in good company: located down the street is Pasadena's Craftsman Brewing, and Eagle Rock Brewery — whose beer which is actually distributed by Stone — is only a few minutes away by freeway.

Stone Brewing Co.: 220 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena. Coming soon.

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