Docent Brewing, an award-winning craft brewery known for its artisan beers and elevated pub fare, is getting ready to open a new location in Laguna Hills at 23301-C Avenida de la Carlota.
The company’s fourth location is set to move into the former home of GameCraft Brewery, according to 926OC. While an exact opening date has not yet been announced, the Laguna Hills outpost is listed as coming soon on the company’s website. Docent Brewing currently operates locations in San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, and Carlsbad. Customers can expect a lineup of medal-winning beers, a full food menu, and the brand’s neighborhood-focused atmosphere.
Founded in San Juan Capistrano, Docent Brewing has earned national recognition for its flavor-forward beers. Its pale ale, Double Nickels, earned Gold at the 2024 World Beer Cup and has also received honors at the Great American Beer Festival. Super Tonic, the brewery’s coffee stout, has collected multiple gold medals across major competitions. Over the years, Docent has continued to add to its list of awards in categories ranging from pale ales to imperial stouts.
The brewery describes a docent as a guide, and that philosophy carries into its approach to beer and hospitality. The team focuses on craftsmanship, community, and independence, with an emphasis on educating customers about craft beer culture. Each location operates as both a brewery and public house, offering daily service beginning at 11 a.m. Kitchens close at 8 p.m. across all existing locations.
The beer program spans traditional and experimental styles, including lagers, IPAs, imperial stouts, and barrel-aged releases. Core selections such as Double Nickels, Gimme IPA, and Grandpappy Imperial Stout are joined by rotating options and limited releases. Crowlers are available to-go, poured fresh, and canned at the time of order.
Food menus at existing locations feature items such as the Korean Reuben, smash burgers, tacos, quesadillas, salads, and bowls. The Laguna Hills location will give Docent the opportunity to bring its established food-and-beer-pairing approach to a new part of Orange County. This will be an excellent landing space for Docent Brewing as it expands its footprint in Southern California.
