Originally launched by owner Alex Pierson as California Kebab in San Diego’s College Heights in 2009, the company relocated to its current beachside location in Pacific Beach in 2012, eventually transitioning into Amplified Ale Works. To increase craft beer production, Amplified opened a tasting room and brewing facility at HG Fenton's Brewery Igniter in Miramar in 2016.
In April 2018, Amplified expanded again, opening the Backstage Beer Lounge, a rock-themed tasting room and private event space, below its Pacific Beach location. That same year, the company opened a massive, second brewpub, restaurant, and full-service bar in East Village atop Fault Line Park. They had even planned a 5,000 square-foot brewery in Lemon Grove for 2020, but those plans were scrapped when the pandemic hit.
Over time, all Amplified locations except the original Pacific Beach venue have closed. Last year, the East Village branch transformed into Modbom Cocktails x Papalo Kitchen, which operated for only seven months before shuttering. The space now houses Izola Bakery.
Amplified's primary PB location, now dubbed Amplified Kitchen + Beer Garden, is listed for sale through Next Wave Commercial for $250,000. The fully-fixturized restaurant and brewing facility includes a 2,281 square-foot interior with a 1,000 square-foot outdoor patio with views of the Pacific Ocean.
"As with so many small businesses, Covid really decimated our daily operations and growth plans," explained Amplified founder Alexi Pierson. "While I wish the last 4 years were as good as the previous 8 before them, operating Amplified/Cali Kebab has truly been one of the great joys of my life. The family we created and community we fostered has been incredible, but it's time for someone else to come in and reinvigorate the space for the next generation of guests. We intend to operate as normal until we find the right folks to move forward, so come grab a pint of Electrocution and some doner fries while you still can. We truly appreciate the support and being a part of the PB community."
Amplified Kitchen + Beer Garden will continue operating under normal hours at 4150 Mission Boulevard, Suite 208, within Promenade Plaza in San Diego's Pacific Beach. For more information, visit amplifiedales.com.
Originally published on October 1, 2024.
