Murphys’ New Beer Tap Room: The Watering Hole

Locals know him as an inspired chef (who created Alchemy’s gold nugget bread, OMG) and visionary beer aficionado. And now, this former owner of the Alchemy Market and Café has finally manifested his vision for a Murphys tap room. Opened last Friday, The Watering Hole is Jason Wright’s brainchild for a locals favorite hangout away from Main Street, while still also welcoming craft beer-loving visitors.

Every aspect of the premises has been thoughtfully designed. From the architecture by Murphys architect, Michelle Plotnik, and hand-hewn local craftsman woodwork and metalwork features, to the compostable tableware, and creekside location,  it’s all in line with Jason’s vision to feature the Murphys community culture.  

The menu is chef-driven, modern American pub food: seasonal and locally sourced, changing as often as necessary to incorporate fresh, local ingredients. Check out the digital displays above the bar to see what’s on offer. You’ll find 40 rotating taps (yes, forty) and 8 retail doors of bottled beer, with an emphasis on hard to find beers, Belgian styles, and the best of American craft beer.

Since the business is located on Big Trees Road (named for the giant sequoias just 15 minutes away at Calaveras Big Trees State Park in Arnold), Jason incorporated giant sequoias into the branding for the business from the bar itself to the logo. Additional features of The Watering Hole include: fireplace, creek side patio with a fire pit, and a temperature controlled beer cellar room for proper ageing of certain beers that is also available for small, private functions.

We expect this perfectly on-brand, locally sensitive business to delight, and invite you to check out The Watering Hole on Facebook, on their website at MurphysWateringHole.com (where you can also find their changing beer and food menus) and in person 6 days a week (closed Wednesdays). Let us know what you think!