Tapped for Greatness: Curating the Perfect Pour at Treehouse Silicon Valley's Beer Garden

Treehouse Silicon Valley’s Beer Garden is more than a place to grab a pint—it’s a celebration of flavor, connection, and the creativity of Northern California’s craft breweries. With over 30 beers on tap from local legends like Russian River Brewing Co., seasonal specials, and a lineup of standout drinks, this vibrant gathering spot invites everyone from casual sippers to craft beer connoisseurs to come together. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite brew, savoring a Sakura Spritz, or diving into a dessert float with an Imperial Stout, the Beer Garden promises a one-of-a-kind experience rooted in community and curiosity. 

To get the inside scoop on how this stellar selection came together, we sat down with Beverage Director Steven Minor to chat about his curation process and the inspiration behind the lineup at our Beer Garden. Steven’s passion for Northern California’s craft beer scene shines through every detail, from the range of beer styles on offer to the innovative twists like dessert floats and non-alcoholic options.
 

Behind the Taps: A Conversation with Steven Minor

Treehouse Silicon Valley’s Beer Garden is as much about community as it is about flavor. What inspired the vision behind this vibrant gathering space?

We wanted to celebrate the wealth of exceptional Northern California craft breweries that are constantly innovating and releasing creative, progressive beers. Our goal was to create a unique neighborhood gathering space that reflects the vibrant energy of Silicon Valley while bringing people together over a shared love of great beer.

Curating a menu with over 30 beers on tap isn’t an easy feat. How did you approach creating such a unique and diverse beverage selection?

We approached this with a lot of research and a deep appreciation for the craft beer community. Unfortunately, the pandemic took a toll on some of the smaller breweries in the region, but we’ve worked hard to identify standout local breweries and include a wide range of beer styles. From crisp lagers to high-ABV barrel-aged options, our menu is designed to cater to diverse tastes. Seasonal, limited-release beers will also keep the selection fresh and exciting, and we’re even exploring the idea of creating our own custom brew.

Are there any local breweries or standout drinks that you’re particularly excited about featuring? 

We’re excited about our lineup from Russian River Brewing Co. and are hoping to secure an allocation of their legendary “Pliny the Elder” Pale Ale. It’s one of the most sought-after beers in the country, with a loyal, almost cult-like following. Offering it at the Beer Garden would be a true highlight for our guests.

Sometimes, it’s the unexpected flavors that leave the biggest impression. What’s the most surprising beer or beverage on the menu, and why did you include it?

One standout is the Off the Rails “OTIS” Imperial Stout, a bold brew with a 9.2% ABV, infused with molasses and chocolate malt. It’s a unique option that we think will surprise and delight guests, especially when served as a dessert float. On the lighter side, our Sakura Spritz offers delicate floral notes from Japanese Sakura Vermouth and Sakura Blossom Syrup—a refreshing and intriguing option for those looking for something different.

Will the Beer Garden feature non-alcoholic beers? If so, how were they chosen or what makes them unique?

Yes, we’re proud to offer a selection of non-alcoholic beers, including the Bravus Raspberry Gose, Best Day Brewing Hazy IPA, and Best Day Electro Lime Cerveza. All are crafted in California and selected to provide a variety of flavors, from crushable and refreshing to fruit-forward and hoppy. These options ensure that everyone can enjoy the experience, regardless of their preference for alcohol.

From casual sippers to craft beer connoisseurs, the Beer Garden has something for everyone. What kind of experience do you hope guests will have when they visit?

We want guests to feel completely at ease—whether they’re stopping by for a casual drink with friends or diving into the nuances of our curated craft beer selection. The Beer Garden is designed to foster connection and discovery, creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their beer expertise, can enjoy great beverages, delicious food, and a vibrant sense of community.