A longtime local favorite brewpub in Berkeley, Triple Rock Brewery and Alehouse will permanently close its doors after four decades of operation. It is one of the oldest continuously operating brewpubs in the United States. The brewery will officially shut down by the end of 2026.
Berkeley’s Historic Triple Rock Brewery to Close
The brewpub began its journey as a neighborhood tavern in March 1986 and was initially named Roaring Rock Brewery. Founded by two brothers, John Martin and Reid Martin, it was one of the first five brewpubs established in the United States after Prohibition.
Triple Rock Brewery is well known for its classic, relaxed, and lively brewpub experience. It serves craft house brews and uses traditional copper vessels. Triple Rock also features a full-service kitchen, and the menu includes signature pub fare, from burgers and sandwiches to loaded fries.
On September 17, 2026, the owners shared an official closure announcement. They announced that, after 40 years, Triple Rock Brewery in downtown Berkeley will be serving its last pint at the end of 2026.
Reflecting on its journey in the Berkeley community, John said, “Triple Rock was never just the two of us. It was built by generations of incredible employees who gave so much of themselves to this place, and it was supported by our community that kept showing up year after year.”
The brewery will continue to operate as usual and will “remain open through the end of the Cal fall semester.”
The brewery will also host its regular Thursday Monkey Head Nights. It also plans to celebrate the brewery journey with a special throwback event and will feature 1980s pricing.
Along with that, the farewell celebrations will offer the “return of favorite seasonal and specialty beers from Triple Rock’s brewing archives, and other events celebrating the brewery’s long Berkeley history.”
Reason Behind the Closure
According to the official closure announcement, the decision to close was made because the owners of the brewpub plan to retire.
John stated, “After 40 years, we are ready to spend less time navigating the day-to-day and more time exploring some of the other things we have put off along the way.”
In the announcement, the owners also mentioned that the brewery’s Berkeley building will be offered for sale or lease.
The owners encouraged the customers and community members to visit the brewery before it permanently closes. They said, “We would love to see the community stop in to enjoy a few pints with friends, tell stories, and take in the old-school atmosphere while it remains.”
The closure of Triple Rock Brewery will mark the end of the landmark journey. With the closure of the brewpub, Berkeley will be losing an integral part of its community.
