I was recently in Napa Valley doing some “wine country” touring. Having had my wine fix and needing to chase it with a beer AND since I was heading north from there (from Calistoga) I decided to roll through Healdsburg, CA and visit Bear Republic Brewing Co.
Located right downtown they have a nice location, excellent patio, and cool staff. The beer is excellent, you can do the samplers, and the food is excellent as well. Marcin Furmankiewicz, the restaurant general manager, really takes the time to make sure you feel welcome. You can tell they like what they do!
Definitely west coast style ales! The tasters are a nice size and they will give you related flights.
Although they are in a shopping plaza (aren’t most really cool craft breweries now??) they make full use of the space. Check out the barrel room if given the opportunity … they even have some hops growing out back!
The Racer 5 IPA is their well known beer. However, drink them all and see what you think! Enjoy,
Beer Mentor
Beer Mentor 
Help me understand west coast and… east coast? Like 2PAC and Notorious B.I.G?
You’ve got it down! Like 2PAC would be very hoppy with all the bitterness forward. That’s West Coast … East Coast is more mellow hops … not as bitter … a little more malty — maybe a floral / earthy hop instead of a citrusy/resiny flavor. Notorious. I think that is the right coast for each artist? 🙂