Praising the Bar: Culture Brewing

Good beer is only one important factor when it comes to winning the love of regulars and members of the communities you call home, enough to make it a whopping 13 years in a brewery-saturated county. The other vital component is a highly qualified, hospitable and invested front-of-house staff to help guarantee positive, memorable tasting room experiences. That’s just what Culture Brewing has going at all three of its public venues, spanning Solana Beach to Los Angeles’ Manhattan Beach community. Today we celebrate key members of that team via our Praising the Bar feature.

Larry Solimon
North County General Manager

Where did you grow up? 
San Diego native! Paradise Hills, represent! I was born at Navy Balboa Hospital. My father served in the U.S. Navy and was lucky enough to get orders to stay here until he retired.

When and how did you get into craft beer – was there an a-ha moment – and did it happen before or after you started working in the industry? 
I was working a 100% commission sales job at Nordstrom in 2016, selling womens shoes. Shout out to Al Bundy! I had the biggest burnout-slash-crash of my life, and decided that retail wasn’t for me. I loved the customer service aspect, though, and told my wife I wanted to do something fun. I fell in love with craft beer and frequented Stone Brewing’s taproom in South Park. I thought, “Wow, being a beertender looks fun.” Luckily I had friends in the industry, and was able to bring my customer service experience over. Thank you Chris and Whitney for giving me an opportunity. I am so grateful!

What do you love most about your job? 
What I love most is developing our beertenders. There is no better praise than customers and regulars saying how much they love our staff. They set the tone, they are the first point of contact, and it’s my job to make sure they are equipped and ready with every opportunity to provide a reason for people to come back.

Truth time, what is the part of your job that you like the least? 
Putting everything into hyping up events when outside vendors come out and spend their time here at the brewery just for no one to show up. Genuinely, I hate wasting people’s time and energy. I feel for small business owners and vendors. It’s hard work trying to get a business started and maintained. It’s a double-edged sword having the best weather in the world. 

What accomplishments are you most proud of from your time in the craft-beer industry? 
How we always put our communities first. We’ve been able to host many dog-’adoption events, as well as fundraisers for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, lifeguards and schools. We rely on our community to keep us in business. Also, I am proud of our brewers. We’ve won some medals, and I know taste is subjective, but they really work their ass off day in and day out. They take as much ownership in the business. It’s all collaborative.

What do you love most about the company you work for? 
This company has allowed me to grow personally and professionally. Almost everything we decide is a collaborative effort, and having ownership that values our ideas is important. It allows us to really take stock in what is working and not working. 

What is your favorite beer that your brewery produces? 
Right now, our American Pilsner is so refreshing. Not too sweet, pretty crisp and very clean. 

What are some of your favorite San Diego craft beers, in general? 
Eenny Meenny Decisions from Hopnonymous Brewing is slapping. It’s a super sneaky 7% (alcohol-by-volume) New Zealand-hopped IPA. Really impressive. North Park Beer Co.’s (NPBC) Art is Hard hazy IPA is a go-to, and Societe Brewing’s Light Beer is so crushable.

What are some local brewery venues other than your own that you like to refer customers to or patronize when you’re off the clock? 
I always ask patrons where they are staying to give them some references for their neighborhood. These are can’t-misses, though, and places I frequent: Societe, Pizza Port, Modern Times Beer’s Encinitas Pub, NPBC and Green Cheek Beer Co. in Oceanside. 

Who are some of your favorite regulars and why? 
Banjo Willy usually takes walks from our Encinitas location to the Solana beach location. He has seen a lot of change in our neighborhoods and fully accepted us as a part of his community. He’s always positive and is a very interesting person to talk to. He is an amazing banjo player. Catch his band at North County street fairs!

Everybody has funny work stories. Would you mind sharing one with us? 
I still don’t get keg couplers on correctly sometimes. We all know what happens when you push down and it’s not locked in.

What music genre and artists are playing in the tasting room when you’re in control? 
Goth Babe, Interpol and Strokes Radio during business hours; Hot Snakes and Pig Destroyer at last call and cleaning hours. 

What do you consider cornerstones when it comes to customer service, particularly at a brewery tasting room? 
Asking our customer enough questions? Everyone loves to talk about themselves, and when you lean into that and get to know a customer you create a second place for them. We need genuine connection in this world more than ever, and when you capture that you create a customer – and maybe even a friend – for life. 

What advice would you give to customers looking to have the best possible experience when visiting a brewery taproom? 
Ask your beertender about their favorite beer on tap. Our beertenders know our beer inside-out and we like what we like for a reason. 

What are your career aspirations either in or beyond the craft-beer industry? 
I can’t even imagine going anywhere else, but if I had to, I would be interested in a business or team development consulting, specifically in craft beer.

What are some of your favorite beer events, whether at your brewery or elsewhere? 
I really enjoy the Great American Beer Festival (GABF). Camaraderie couldn’t be higher, since we all have the same goals. And it’s nice to see how other breweries are operating.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work? 
Hanging with my six-year-old. She’s in a ton of dance classes at the moment, and I enjoy watching the pureness of just play and focus. I also stream and play a ton of Warzone, battlenet: sbstnce#1694, if you are trying to squad up/catch these hands.

Who do you think you are (a purposely broad question requiring a succinct 10-words-or-less answer)? 
I care deeply and wear my heart on my sleeve.

Amanda Severson
Solana Beach Tasting Room Manager

Where did you grow up? 
Bakersfield, California

What brought you to San Diego? 
I moved to San Diego almost 17 years ago. Growing up in a small town was fun and made me who I am today, but was also a little tough for me. I always knew I wanted to be in a bigger city. 

When and how did you get into craft beer – was there an a-ha moment – and did it happen before or after you started working in the industry? 
I feel really lucky to have been part of the craft beer scene from the beginning. All of my closest friends were musicians that became brewers. I’ve been a craft beer drinker from the start, and it was really neat being able to go to local dive bars and order my first IPA. Just to name a few of my favorites: Toronado, Monkey Paw Pub & Brewery, Blind Lady Ale House, O’Brien’s Pub, Hamilton’s Tavern, Sunshine Company, Small Bar and, of course, Live Wire.

What do you love most about your job? 
I know it sounds cheesy, but I really do love my job! But what I value most is the sense of community. I love connecting with the locals and regulars who come in. It’s so rad to see how long a lot of these customers have been coming to Culture. I also love giving new customers a welcoming experience. I taught classes in customer service, so hospitality is essential.

Truth time, what is the part of your job that you like the least? 
I don’t enjoy being the bad guy. Like any job there are tough decisions to be made from time to time, but I always try to use my best judgment. 

What accomplishments are you most proud of from your time in the craft-beer industry? 
I’m proud to be part of an award-winning brewery that’s been standing for almost 13 years and is still going. 

What do you love most about the company you work for? 
I love that it’s a family-owned-and-operated establishment with a welcoming atmosphere! 

What is your favorite beer that your brewery produces? 
I would say it’s a tie between our award-winning Brown Ale and our Black IPA. 

What are some of your favorite San Diego craft beers, in general? 
Fall Brewing’s Plenty For All Pilsner and Jazz Hands Berliner weisse, Societe Brewing’s The Pupil IPA and Topa Topa Brewing’s Chief Peak IPA.

What are some local brewery venues other than your own that you like to refer customers to or patronize when you’re off the clock? 
Fall, Societe, Pure Project Brewing and The Original 40 Brewing

Who are some of your favorite regulars and why? 
This is an extremely hard question. I have so many favorite regulars. I would have to say Sue and Wayne, Erin and Kristy, Michael Dunford, Mike Stell and Stephen Handley. Most of these regulars are now some of my closest friends! 

Everybody has funny work stories. Would you mind sharing one with us? 
I’m grateful that our staff gets along so well and is super close! The other day, my co-worker played a trick on me and took my belongings. I couldn’t find my things for almost 30 minutes and was trying not to lose my mind. Finally, they decide to bring my stuff out. I totally got punked! It’s fun to be able to joke around and laugh together at work, and not take everything so seriously. 

What music genre and artists are playing in the tasting room when you’re in control? 
I’m such a music-lover, so what we play is super important to me. I want everyone to enjoy the atmosphere and the music we play. A lot of my regulars tell me they love the tunes on my days. I usually play 80’s new wave, (The Cure, The Smiths, Devo), rock and roll (The Rolling Stones, David Bowie) and a lot of indie (The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, MGMT).

What do you consider cornerstones when it comes to customer service, particularly at a brewery tasting room?
Being able to help someone or solve a problem. I often enjoy it when there is an issue I can assist with, because I know I will be able to make that customer happy! I really enjoy being able to fix things. 

What advice would you give to customers looking to have the best possible experience when visiting a brewery taproom? 
Go into a new brewery with an open mind. Ask questions, feel the atmosphere and don’t be afraid to ask the beertender for a splash or ask questions about a beer. I think a lot of people get afraid to ask simple questions even though they want to learn.

What are your career aspirations either in or beyond the craft-beer industry? 
I would love to have my own business one day! It’s always been a dream of mine.

What are some of your favorite beer events, whether at your brewery or elsewhere? 
I really enjoy local music and beer festivals. I’m also really excited to go to GABF this year! I have a feeling that will be on my list of favorites.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work? 
When I’m not at work I’m usually spending time with my fiance, Mike, and our pets, Juniper, Daffodil and Mikey. I also DJ at local bars, record stores and clubs in my free time. I’m a big vinyl and film nerd.

Who do you think you are (a purposely broad question requiring a succinct 10-words-or-less answer)?
Leader, confident, compassionate, kind, caring, selfless, sensitive, old soul 

Katie Speaks
Encinitas Tasting Room Manager

Where did you grow up?
Flint, Michigan

What brought you to San Diego?
I came to San Diego to visit my cousin and instantly fell in love with everything. I moved here three weeks later.

When and how did you get into craft beer – was there an a-ha moment – and did it happen before or after you started working in the industry?
I had just moved to San Diego. My cousin Morgan was working at Culture at the time, so I started coming in and hanging out. I was looking for a job and kept asking if there was a spot open. I remember trying all the beers and studying them so I could be a better hire. Before moving here I didn’t know much about craft beer, but I instantly fell in love with beer and the beer community, and here I am two-and-a-half years later!

What do you love most about your job?
What I love most about working here is connecting with the community. I’ve never worked at a place that cares so much about the people. The customers and regulars are amazing, and getting to create those relationships with them has made this the best job ever! Having been here a couple of years it’s crazy to see the impact we can have on the community and what the community does for us. 

Truth time, what is the part of your job that you like the least?
Honestly…cleaning the bathrooms. I don’t think that’s fun for anyone!

What accomplishments are you most proud of from your time in the craft-beer industry?
What I’m most proud of is having helped organize and plan our Encinitas eight-year anniversary weekend this year. Having a three-day event was a lot of work but some of the most fun I’ve had. Getting to give back to our community with great deals and prizes was so cool.

What do you love most about the company you work for?
This company has done so much for me. When I first started, I didn’t know a ton about the industry. They took me in and have helped me grow and learn so much. I couldn’t be more grateful for Culture taking a chance on me, and providing me with new learning opportunities and such a unique, special work environment.

What is your favorite beer that your brewery produces?
The Cold IPL! It’s a little hoppy but not too strong. Crisp, refreshing and, in my opinion, the perfect beer.

What are some of your favorite San Diego craft beers, in general?
Tora! Japanese lager from Fall Brewing is delicious. It’s been my go-to beer latel.! I also love The Pupil from Societe.

What are some local brewery venues other than your own that you like to refer customers to or patronize when you’re off the clock?
I’ll always refer people to Modern Times’ Encinitas spot. They have a rad team, and a great selection of beers and seltzers.

Who are some of your favorite regulars and why?
Ryan Daly is one of my all time regulars. I met him when I first started working and he is always making sure us beertenders are taken care of. He usually comes in after a good surf with good energy and conversation, introducing himself to people and new workers. I’m thankful to have him a part of our Culture community. Another is Mike Sutton. He usually likes to grab a burrito or taco from the Taco Stand across the street and make his way here for our La Cerveza Mexican lager. He is one of the sweetest people I’ve met, and always asks if we want a taco. He is a friend to all. I could sit and chat with him for hours!

Everybody has funny work stories. Would you mind sharing one with us?
Probably when I messed up putting a keg coupler on. Not only did it spray my face but my entire outfit. I had to call a friend to bring me extra clothes. 

What music genre and artists are playing in the tasting room when you’re in control?
When I’m opening I like to keep it chill with the Charmed Radio station, and then I go to Neil Frances Radio. When doors are closed, Charli xcx helps me get through my cleaning tasks!

What do you consider cornerstones when it comes to customer service, particularly at a brewery tasting room?
Creating moments with patrons that make them want to come back. Having genuine conversations with them, asking about their recent trips or bringing beers to their table. The little things can go a long way.

What advice would you give to customers looking to have the best possible experience when visiting a brewery taproom?
Let us know what beers or styles you like and ask for a rundown of the menu. That  way we can lead you in the right direction. I think our team has great knowledge of our beers, so don’t be shy.

What are your career aspirations either in or beyond the craft-beer industry?
To manage a brewery, hopefully here at Culture one day. I look up to my GM, Larry, in so many ways. He has pushed me to be a better lead for my team and has taught me great management skills. 

What are some of your favorite beer events, whether at your brewery or elsewhere?
I love the Encinitas Street Fair. They have a local biergarten and live music playing. It keeps us busy in the tasting room and it’s so much fun getting to explore all the local beer tents after work!

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
I love to dive into a good book. I read a ton of fantasy and dystopian books. It’s so fun to escape into another world. I also love to play pool at my local dive bar, The Shanty. There’s nothing better than me and my gals running the table!

Who do you think you are (a purposely broad question requiring a succinct 10-words-or-less answer)?
I’m a positive, enthusiastic person and loyal friend. 

Kelly Oelschlager
Manhattan Beach General Manager

Where did you grow up? 
Irvine, California

What brought you to San Diego? 
SDSU…go Aztecs!

When and how did you get into craft beer – was there an a-ha moment – and did it happen before or after you started working in the industry? 
I’ve worked in the service industry in some capacity my whole life. After college, I got a job at a craft beer bar downtown. It was hard to ignore the burgeoning craft beer scene with a new brewery seemingly popping up on every other block. The major shift for me was the sense of community and collaboration shared amongst breweries, which was wildly different from the cutthroat competitive nature of restaurants. I dove in. 

Have you worked for other breweries, and if so, which ones and in what capacity? 
I worked at Mike Hess Brewing in North Park for six-and-a-half years.

What do you love most about your job? 
Cultivating community and forging relationships.

Truth time, what is the part of your job that you like the least? 
My least favorite part of my job is occasionally having to be the bad guy.

What accomplishments are you most proud of from your time in the craft-beer industry? 
Winning Best New Business in Manhattan Beach in 2021 was a thrill, and taking home gold for our Contemporary Gose at the 2024 GABF was unforgettable.

What do you love most about the company you work for? 
I love that Culture is independent and family-owned.

What is your favorite beer that your brewery produces? 
3 Citrus Gose

What are some of your favorite San Diego craft beers, in general? 
Fall’s Plenty for all and Pizza Port’s Ponto session IPA.

What are some local brewery venues other than your own that you like to refer customers to or patronize when you’re off the clock? 
In San Diego, it’s Fall and Pizza Port. In L.A., it’s Monkish Brewing, Common Space Brewery and Los Angeles Ale Works.

Who are some of your favorite regulars and why? 
Greg and Patty Lonergan, Steve and Lynn Kleiner, and Kim Cybulski. They’re more than regulars. They’ve become family.

Everybody has funny work stories. Would you mind sharing one with us? 
The other night, Evan Handler (the actor who played Harry from “Sex and the City”) was here. It happened to also be our art show opening and it was packed. At one point, he set his beer down, walked outside and was sipping on it from the sidewalk. I approached him quietly, covering my mouth and said “Hey, big fan.” He was flattered until I proceeded to ask him kindly to not drink on the sidewalk…ha!

What music genre and artists are playing in the tasting room when you’re in control? 
I like to keep the chill, beachy vibes. Think Poolside, Polo y Pan and Tame Impala.

What do you consider cornerstones when it comes to customer service, particularly at a brewery tasting room? 
I like to surprise and delight. Our business model is counter service, but I’m always circulating the tasting room, talking to guests and offering to grab their next round. It’s a small gesture on my end and they’re always blown away. 

What advice would you give to customers looking to have the best possible experience when visiting a brewery taproom? 
Come as you are! Be willing to talk to your neighbors and make new friends. It’s all about community and connection over good beer.

What are your career aspirations either in or beyond the craft-beer industry? 
I hope to own and operate my own business one day.

What are some of your favorite beer events, whether at your brewery or elsewhere? 
I love our workout events, book club and singles mixers, basically anything you wouldn’t expect at a brewery is something I’m all about.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?  
On my days off you can find me adventuring with my dog. I also love live music and will travel to see my favorite artists.

Who do you think you are (a purposely broad question requiring a succinct 10-words-or-less answer)?
Creative leader, community builder, brand-and-business grower and dog mom. 

Culture Brewing is located at 111 South Cedros Avenue in Solana Beach, and its satellite tasting rooms are located at 629 South Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas and 327 Manhattan Beach Boulevard in Los Angeles’ Manhattan Beach community