Something exciting is brewing in Tam Junction. This fall,  Bill Higgins (the restaurant legend behind Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 and Corner Bar) is transforming Floodwater into Tam Tavern by East Brother Beer Co.— a lively new gathering place offering nourishing bites, classic-style beers and plenty of good cheer.

At the heart of the project is a homegrown partnership. Longtime Mill Valley friends and neighbors Chris Coomber and Rob Lightner, who founded East Brother Beer Company in Richmond 12 years ago were tapped by Higgins to join forces for a beer-forward collaboration. Together they have created a quintessential Marin destination that celebrates and showcases both well-made craft beers alongside the elevated cuisine that is a given at any Higgins restaurant.

“We are thrilled to partner with Chris and Rob whose consistently high-quality craft beer aligns perfectly with what we do,” says owner Bill Higgins, who notes the classic-style beer has graced his menus for years. While East Brother has operated out of Richmond, Chris began homebrewing in his Sycamore Park neighborhood where both Rob and Chris lived and raised their families.

They still live in Mill Valley, and their tagline that describes East Brother Beer Co. says it best: Born in Mill Valley. Brewed in Richmond. Built for the Bay.

Tam Tavern isn’t just another beer hall—it’s designed as a gathering space for everyone. It embodies all the elements that draw us together—a fun and lively indoor space with multiple television screens for sports lovers and a dedicated game room with shuffleboard and darts. An upgraded and greatly expanded outdoor beer garden complete with fire pits and heat lamps has also been added to the mix—providing even more options for families, date night, and outdoor enthusiasts just back from running the Dipsea, hiking Bootjack Trail or mountain biking in Tennessee Valley. Floodwater’s Leather Lounge, a handsomely appointed room designed for private events and intimate gatherings was too good to lose to history and remains an ideal space for special get-togethers.

Fresh off a Bib Gourmand win for his role at Playa, along with a Best New Restaurant accolade from Marin Magazine for Corner Bar, consulting chef Michael Siegel couldn’t be a better choice to develop Tam Tavern’s beer-friendly menu. Thoughtful items like a house made Bavarian Pretzel, Beer Battered Fish & Chips (featuring Bo Pils, of course), and a Double Smashburger and Pork Schnitzel are offered along with lighter salad options. A Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie will please those looking for less hearty fare, and a handful of house made pizzas that pair perfectly with a pint or two are also on the something-for-everyone menu.

Much like the eclectic menu, East Brother crafts beer that appeals to a broad variety of tastes. Look for 10-15 different options (mostly German and English) of brews ranging from the lighter Bo Pils and Mexican Lager to an Oatmeal Stout, and of course a selection of hoppy IPAs. Darker Bavarian style lagers and even a malty Belgian Tripel are all on tap. Rob and Chris clearly take their beer seriously—they are self-professed fanatics about quality and balance and sum up their philosophy as one of passion, precision, and pride. Suffice it to say Marin diners are in for a big treat when they discover these no-nonsense, award-winning brews that hit all the right notes.

Along with these next level beers, the expansive 30-seat bar will offer up inventive and deliciously unexpected beer-infused cocktails. Shandies are sure to be on the menu along with a nuanced Old Fashioned featuring the dark and malty flavor profiles of the heartier brews. The full bar will serve a standard roster of classic cocktails, but beer will now have a starring role at this reimagined tavern. It’s alchemy at its spirited best.

This union at the foot of Mount Tamalpais in Mill Valley offers not only exceptionally well-crafted beer paired with thoughtfully prepared food—but a perfect place to relax and enjoy a home-style meal and beverages with friends and family. Tam Tavern welcomes guests from near and far and encourages them to discover the magic that happens when pros at the top of their game join forces and create an experience affectionately referred to as Only in Marin…