By: Ryan Guitare
Located in the heart of Old Town Torrance, Red Car Brewery & Restaurant has been a vital part of the local community since its opening in August 2000. Founded by Bob and Laurie Brandt, this establishment holds the honor of being Torrance’s first brewery, marking the beginning of what would become a thriving craft beer scene in the area. After years of Bob building his career in the craft beer industry, the couple envisioned opening their own brewery. They were particularly inspired by the idea of creating a place in their hometown of Torrance, where they could combine their love of brewing with their commitment to the community. Over the years, Red Car has evolved into more than just a brewery; it has become a gathering place where history, community, and quality craftsmanship converge.
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Community
Bob Brandt’s journey into brewing began during his college years when a friend gifted him a home brewing kit. This simple gesture ignited a passion that led Bob to gain experience at several breweries in Southern California before he and Laurie decided to open their own place in Torrance. Reflecting on their motivations, Laurie stated, “We wanted to do this, open a business in the town we live in, and we live in Torrance,” highlighting their commitment to creating a community-centered establishment.
Laurie played a crucial role in finding the perfect location in Old Town Torrance, where they envisioned creating a gathering place that reflected the spirit of their community. Their goal was not just to serve beer but to create a welcoming environment that would become a cornerstone of local life.
The Challenges and Triumphs
Opening a business is never easy, and Red Car Brewery was no exception. The Brandts faced numerous challenges, including the complexities of securing a location in Old Town Torrance. Laurie recalled the difficulty of acquiring their historic building, which required navigating through city regulations and working with the Downtown Torrance Association. Their perseverance paid off, and the brewery quickly became a beloved part of the community.
Over the years, Red Car Brewery has become known for its commitment to quality. Bob and Laurie’s dedication to using traditional English brewing techniques sets their beers apart. As Bob noted, “Our beers are super fresh, and we can get a little creative because our batches are so small.” This commitment to quality and innovation has made Red Car a standout in Torrance’s craft beer scene.
Support for the Young Professionals Group (YPG)
While Red Car Brewery is deeply rooted in the past, it also looks toward the future, particularly in its support of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and the Young Professionals Group (YPG). On September 19th at 5:00 PM, Red Car will host YPG, providing a venue for young professionals to connect, share experiences, and build valuable relationships.
Laurie Brandt emphasizes the value of YPG for those starting their careers, noting that the group offers a unique opportunity for younger professionals to learn from the experiences of others. “It’s fun to hear from the young professionals as to what their challenges are too because I feel like that… can make us more relatable here at the business,” Laurie shared. She also pointed out how these interactions foster quality connections among young professionals themselves. By engaging with like-minded peers, members of the YPG can exchange ideas, share resources, and build a supportive network that is crucial for personal and professional growth. These connections not only provide a sense of community but also empower young professionals to navigate their careers with greater confidence and collaboration
The YPG offers young professionals in Torrance a platform for networking and mentorship, essential for growth in today’s business environment. Laurie’s advice to these emerging leaders is straightforward yet profound: “Be open to opportunities and listen… relationships are super important.” This philosophy has not only guided the Brandts in their business journey but continues to resonate with the young professionals they support through events like those hosted at Red Car.
Bridging Generations Through Community
Red Car Brewery & Restaurant stands as a testament to the importance of community, both in preserving history and in fostering the next generation of business leaders. As the Brandts continue to support groups like YPG, they ensure that Red Car remains a place where the past and future meet, creating a vibrant community hub in Torrance.
For those attending the YPG event on September 19th, it will be more than just a networking opportunity; it will be an experience in a place that embodies the spirit of Torrance. Red Car Brewery is not just about beer; it’s about building connections, sharing knowledge, and contributing to the ongoing story of a community that values both its history and its future.