David Keene - Toronado, San Francisco, CA - Remembering Michael Jackson
This time it is our pleasure to talk to David Keene, owner of the Toronado, the “punk club with a good selection of beer” in the lower Haight neighborhood of San Francisco, CA. Affectionately known as “Big Daddy”, he has done an amazing job of creating a community around great beer in the Bay Area. Opening 20 years ago when the beer availability wasn’t what it is today, David did whatever it took to get the best beers on tap at the Toronado. In those 20 years, he has created quite a legacy, had at least 3 beers named after him, had countless brewed for him, and started the now world famous Barleywine Festival (starts Feb. 16th).
The best description of the Toronado ever written comes from the label of Cable Car, a beer created by The Lost Abbey in San Marcos, CA to commemorate Toronado’s 20th anniversary. It reads:
You’ve made it to 547 Haight Street. This destination is more San Francisco than Rice A Roni, Chinatown, and Lombard Street combined. Welcome to Broadway for brewers everywhere. Everyone who is anyone has poured their kegs here. For the last 20 years, this place has launched careers, confirmed legacies, and since 1987 the only name you need to know is David Keene.
Take a seat. Tip Strong. Nod appreciatively and don’t ask stupid questions. Welcome to Big Daddy’s House known to most simply as “The T-Room.” Here the bartenders are fluent in English, German, Flemish, French, Waloon and Czech. But they’re most know for their American Lip Service. Watch it. The lady with the jet black hair behind the bar eats idiots for lunch.
Many think that Toronado is the best beer bar in the country. I couldn’t agree more. One thing is for sure, Toronado is a truly great place. It is that way because of David Keene and his endless devotion to truly great beer.
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
- Standard Def MP4
- Standard Def MP4
