In 2023, El Cid Brewing’s monthly numbers were on a steady upward trajectory toward sustainable profitability. Those figures inspired owners Eric Bridges and Terry Kellar to expand their 2,000-square-foot base of operations in North Park (the former site of dual business entity, The Homebrewer and Home Brewing Co.) by taking over the 1,000-square-foot unit next door. With a supportive landlord, the duo moved forward with plans based on sales data from the previous 14 months that in no way matched the far lower numbers the business would generate in 2024.
“The growth just didn’t happen as we had thought it would,” says Bridges. That alone has had El Cid on a downward trajectory for roughly a year-and-a-half, but there was more to it than that or even the worsening economy and bevy of challenges facing brewing companies at every level.
“There was also a feeling we needed to keep up with the Joneses by hosting typical events, such as trivia, comedy shows, paint-and-sip sessions and game nights. It always seemed like there was someone with their hands in our pockets, over-promising and under-delivering on a service,” says Bridges. “Coupled in with taxes, insurance, payroll, and fee after fee after this bill and that bill, it just sucked us dry.”
With revenue down and the idea of profitability seeming like little more than a pipe dream, Bridges and Kellar have decided to close El Cid after a final service on Saturday, June 14. Despite loving to brew and serve their beer, they are exhausted and out of money.
Bridges says operating his own brewery is the most challenging thing he’s ever done. That’s saying something for a U.S. Navy veteran who ascended to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer (CPO), directing scores of military personnel aboard multiple seafaring vessels. That background was celebrated at El Cid along with CPO culture and camaraderie. As a result, much of the business’ regular customers were active-duty Navy and veterans who appreciated what was far more than an aesthetic, but rather a soulful salute to service.
The best thing to come out of this was being able to give a space to veterans that don’t always feel comfortable at traditional veteran’s clubs. We built a family of regulars that became close friends of ours. I think that will be the part I miss most, but we also plan to keep in touch with everyone.”
Eric Bridges, Co-owner & Head Brewer, El Cid Brewing
As unique and heartfelt as El Cid’s concept was, Bridges and Kellar acknowledge that it likely impaired the business’ ability to appeal to a broader audience. In January, the owners shared that they were considering rebranding the business, feeling their niche Naval concept wasn’t well suited for North Park. In the end, Bridges says moving forward with such an overhaul likely would have equated to them going out of business twice in a year.
Before El Cid’s last day, its tasting room will serve as the host site of the Beer Belly Society Awards on Friday, June 6. The following day, there will be a watch party for WWE Money in the Bank and UFC 316. And on Sunday, June 15, Bridges and Kellar will sell off items as part of an “estate sale”.
“I enjoyed my time as a pro brewer. It helped Terry and I expand our skills and knowledge when it comes to making beer, especially being able to use the knowledge we gained from MiraCosta College and UCSD’s professional certificate programs,” says Bridges. “It was nice to make a dream reality and see it to its conclusion. Not a lot of people can say they’ve done that. And although El Cid’s chapter may be over, I am not going to stop brewing, be it commercially or in my garage.”
El Cid Brewing is located at 2911 El Cajon Boulevard in North Park