San Diego's Amplified Ale Works Announces Closure Date For Original Pacific Beach Brewery

After 12 years of serving up unique craft beers and Mediterranean-inspired eats, Amplified Ale Works is set to close its last remaining location in San Diego's Pacific Beach later this month.

Founded by Alex Pierson and JC Hill in 2012, the brewery began as a small, second-story brewpub above California Kebab in Pacific Beach, spurred by licensing requirements that required on-site brewing. What started as a necessity quickly evolved into a passion project for Pierson and Hill, who brought in experienced brewer Cy Henley to establish Amplified's house brews. This small venture has since grown into a beloved local brand, with notable achievements, expansions, and collaborations throughout its journey.

Over the years, Amplified Ale Works expanded its presence across San Diego, opening additional locations in Miramar and East Village. However, the pandemic severely impacted the business, halting planned growth and forcing a shift toward consolidation. Amplified eventually had to close all its other locations, including the production facility in Miramar and the large brewpub in East Village, which closed earlier this year. With two young children at home, Pierson's priorities have shifted, contributing to his choice to close Amplified and focus on his family.

Despite the challenges, Amplified Ale Works achieved numerous milestones over the years. Notable accomplishments include winning a gold medal at the World Beer Cup in 2016 for their Whammy Bar Wheat and another gold medal at the 2021 San Diego International Beer Competition for their hazy IPA, Stratacaster.

Following the closure of Amplified, Pierson plans to stay connected to the San Diego craft beer scene, spending more time at Morley Field managing his family's disc golf course and organizing events like the annual San Diego Beer Week Fling. The final day of operation for Amplified Ale Works is planned for Saturday, November 23, at its Pacific Beach location sited at 4150 Mission Boulevard, Suite 208, within the Promenade Plaza. 

We reported in October that Amplified Kitchen + Beer Garden was listed for sale through Next Wave Commercial for $175,000, but the space has yet to be purchased. For fans and locals, this marks the end of an era for one of Pacific Beach’s iconic craft beer destinations, leaving a legacy of memorable brews, community contributions, and unique collaborations.

 

For more information about Amplified Ale Works, visit amplifiedales.com.

Originally published on November 16, 2024.