Marin County Staple Is Closing Its Doors For Good

NOVATO, CA — Moylan’s Brewing Company, a Novato-staple for over 30 years, announced it will close its doors permanently on May 4, the owner said.

“This decision has been a difficult one, and it comes after much reflection on the legacy we’ve built together. Our brewery and restaurant have been more than just places of business — they have been home to countless memories, friendships, and shared experiences,” said owner Brendan Moylan on Facebook.

Moylan said there were many factors that led to closing.

“The business model has kind of changed. Craft beers are kind of an oversaturated market at this point. Generation Z is different in their drinking habits, and it's kind of a bad combination. We have a lot of overhead there. Keeps a lot to make that engine work," he said.

Moylan also announced they will hold a silent auction. Just ask for the binder behind the bar where there is a list of items to bid on ranging from anything you can imagine whether it be barstools, chalkboards or posters. All proceeds will go to employees to help them in this transition time.

Moylan’s Brewing Company opened at Rowland Plaza in Novato in 1995. It featured a 57-foot long bar, a dart room with a fireplace and a reading library full of brewing books and magazines.

Moylan and brewmaster Arne Johnson found success receiving a multitude of awards for their beers including their Kiltlifter Scotch Ale, Northern California IPA, Ryan O’Sullivan’s Imperial Stout, Haze Craze IPA and Danny’s Irish Red.

Moylan also owned Marin Brewing Company, which closed in 2022.

“Thank you once again for being part of the Moylan’s family. This chapter may be coming to a close, but the spirit of craft beer and good food will remain with us always,” Moylan said.

Moylan said the name will live on in Moylan’s Distilling Co. where they’ve produced award-winning whisky, brandy and other spirits since 2004 out of Petaluma.