A Family-Run Distillery Shaking Up the Scene

Artisanal Spirits and a Unique Atmosphere

October 18, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

This week, we’re taking you to Webb’s Distillery and Brewery in Aliso Viejo—a spot that’s turning grain into gold, one handcrafted spirit at a time. What started as a grainy passion project has grown into a full-blown operation that’s all about grain-to-glass goodness 🍻 - voted “Best New Restaurant of 2023” by Orange Coast Magazine! They’ve mastered the art of blending old-school techniques with a fresh twist, creating smooth whiskey 🥃 and craft brews 🍺 that are packed with personality. Think industrial park chic with drinks so good, you’ll forget you’re sipping next to office buildings 🏢. Ready for a taste of tradition with a modern edge? We’ve got all the details, plus a few budget-friendly night-out ideas 💸 to keep your plans rolling!

🎉 Let’s GET OUT in the O.C.! 🎉

Everything in this Issue

Webb’s Distillery Brings a Family Passion for Cars and Artisanal Distilling to Aliso Viejo

Imagine sipping on a smooth whiskey or craft beer while a vintage Model T car hovers above you. Sounds wild, right? But that’s exactly what you’ll find at Webb’s Distillery and Brewery in Aliso Viejo. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill distillery—before it became a hotspot for handcrafted spirits and brews, this very space was home to the Webb family’s classic car museum.

The distillery still pays tribute to its history, with the pièce de résistance being the Model T suspended above the dining area. It’s a nod to the past and a reminder that craftsmanship—whether it’s in cars or spirits—runs deep in Webb’s DNA.

When you walk in, you get a sense of stepping into something that’s been carefully curated over time, where every detail matters. It’s not just the drinks that are crafted with precision—the space itself feels like a blend of old-school cool and modern, laid-back vibes. The grain-to-glass spirits, made with the same attention to detail that the Webb family put into their classic cars, are the perfect complement to the space.

We arrived at Webb’s Distillery and Brewery around 9:30 PM, just as the cozy, laid-back evening vibe was settling in. The atmosphere was perfect for unwinding after a long day, and the industrial-chic setting, with that suspended Model T hanging above, definitely made the space feel unique. We grabbed a couple of drinks— I went for the Double Blueberry Squishee, while my friend opted for the Seven Journey IPA. The blueberry beer was a pleasant surprise—refreshingly fruity without being overly sweet, and balanced perfectly with the slight tang of the hops. Meanwhile, the IPA was a solid pick, with its bold, hoppy profile that IPA lovers can always count on.

The whole experience felt like a hidden gem, mixing great drinks with an environment that’s part distillery, part classic car museum. We didn’t eat during our visit, but but their elevated pub food also is a huge draw. Whether you’re into craft beer or just love a spot that’s got character, Webb’s definitely checks all the boxes. It was the perfect way to cap off the night, and we’ll definitely be back to explore more of their beer and spirit selections!

Where to Follow Webb’s on Social

Follow Webb’s Grainworks on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at their grain-to-glass magic! From sneak peeks of their latest craft beers 🍺 and spirits 🥃 to cool shots of their one-of-a-kind distillery space (complete with a vintage Model T!), their feed is packed with updates, special events, and a taste of what makes this family-run distillery so unique. Don’t miss out—join the Webb’s community for all the latest drops and deals!

Everything You Need to Know About Webb’s

  • 📍 Location: 7 Journey, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

  • ⏱️ Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 11 AM – 10 PM (kitchen closes at 9 PM)
    Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM (kitchen closes at 10 PM)

  • 🍻 Menu: A lineup of handcrafted spirits like Nauti Vodka, Portola Whiskey, and Butterball Whiskey, plus a variety of craft beers brewed on-site. Don’t miss the Blueberry Beer or their popular IPA. Hungry? They’ve got a menu packed with global comfort food—think shareables, handhelds, and bowls to pair with your drinks.

  • 👪 Ok for Kids? The family-friendly atmosphere makes it a nice stop during the day, but after dark, the vibe shifts more toward adults. It’s great for a relaxed evening out but probably not the spot for kids after sunset.

  • 👯‍♀️ Best For: Perfect for a casual date night, catching up with friends, or chilling out over craft brews in a laid-back, cozy setting.

  • 📒 Reservations? No reservations needed, but it can get busy during peak hours. Head in a little early if you want to secure a spot by the bar or near that suspended Model T for a cool conversation starter!

Our Favorite Budget-Friendly Nights 💸

Top 3 Restaurants to Try for 🌹Date Night

🇫🇷 Marché Moderne – Newport Beach
Known for its upscale French cuisine, Marché Moderne offers a romantic and elegant setting. The food is carefully crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it perfect for a sophisticated night out. Their outdoor terrace has a cozy ambiance with a view of the coast​. [WEBSITE] [INSTA]

🫒 Bei Restaurant - Costa Mesa
Bei Restaurant brings the rich flavors of Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine to the heart of Orange County. Known for its inviting atmosphere and beautifully prepared dishes, Bei offers an array of traditional favorites like hummus, shawarma, falafel, and tabbouleh. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create authentic flavors that transport you to the Middle East. Whether you're in the mood for a light mezze platter or a hearty grilled meat dish, Bei’s menu has something for everyone, all served in a warm and welcoming environment. [WEBSITE] [INSTA]

🦐 The Deck on Laguna Beach - Laguna Beach
For oceanfront dining, The Deck offers seafood and creative cocktails with stunning views of the Pacific. It’s an ideal place for a relaxed, scenic dinner, especially if you want to catch the sunset while enjoying fresh seafood. Last seating is at 9:30pm so be sure to make your reservations for earlier in the night if you want to take full advantage of that view. [WEBSITE] [INSTA]