The long-empty corner near 20 W. Cochran Street is about to wake up—with hoppy aromas, barbecue smoke, and the clink of pint glasses.
(CLAIR – Simi Valley, CA) — Come early 2026, Simi Valley Brewing Company will open its doors, promising more than just a cold beer. It’s being built as a true community space, a family-friendly destination, and—finally—a real hometown brewery.
The location once housed a Marie Callender’s, but it’s sat quiet for years. And for nearly as long, residents waited for the opening of MAD ERA Brewing, which promised big things but never poured a single pint. Now, there’s a new team with real experience, strong local ties, and a plan that’s already in motion.
“The community has had its eye on this location for quite a while, and we’re excited to see it come back to life with a concept that’s fresh, local, and centered around community,” said Mayor Dee Dee Cavanaugh in a statement provided by Deputy City Manager Heather Sumagaysay.
“Simi Valley Brewing Company is a great example of the growing opportunities to shop local, support homegrown businesses, and enjoy new dining and entertainment experiences that reflect the energy and vibrancy of our city.”
Meet the Team Brewing the Buzz
Simi Valley Brewing Company is the vision of three seasoned pros:
- Ali Zia, co-founder of Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. and Bottle & Pint
- Phil Adler, the restaurateur behind Freda’s Pizza & Woodfired Kitchen
- Daniel Price, a respected head brewer who made his mark at Beachwood Brewing and Riip Beer Company
“It’s not just a restaurant or a taproom,” said Ali Witwit, co-founder and COO. “We’re building something Simi Valley can claim as its own.” (We’d drink to that.)
What’s on Tap (Literally and Figuratively)
The new brewery will operate out of an 8,400-square-foot space with on-site beer production and a full kitchen centered on barbecue. The menu will also feature vegetarian-friendly plates, kid meals, craft cocktails, local wine, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Think smoked brisket, IPAs brewed on-site, a shaded outdoor patio, and live music from local artists. It’s the weekend plan Simi Valley didn’t know it needed—until now.
As Conejo Valley Guide recently noted, this team brings “a rare combination of brewing skill, restaurant know-how, and community vision.”
A Community Thirst Finally Answered
In a post on Reddit’s r/SimiValley, one resident summed up the local sentiment: “We’ve been waiting for a legit brewery here forever. Finally!”
That sense of relief is real. The city is full of chain restaurants and generic tap lists. But Simi Valley Brewing Company is designed to be more than another option—it’s meant to be a gathering space, a hometown hangout with heart.
“We want this to be a place where neighbors can hang out, not just drink,” said Zia in a press release.
Construction is expected to begin later this year. The team is already active on Instagram (@SimiValleyBC) and Facebook, with updates and sneak peeks to come. A full website will launch soon at simivalleybc.com.
So when that first pint is poured in 2026, it won’t just be beer. It’ll be a milestone. A sign that Simi Valley finally has the kind of brewery it’s been promised for years—only this time, it’s real.
Keep your fingers crossed, Simi Valley. This one just might work.
