The Hoppy Monk: 5 Secrets Behind Texas' Gastropub With 99 Beer Taps And A Scratch Kitchen

The Hoppy Monk stands as a true institution in the Texas craft beer and dining scene, a rare gastropub that has successfully balanced an encyclopedic beer list with a sophisticated, scratch-made food menu. As of today, December 10, 2025, the locations in both San Antonio and El Paso continue to draw massive crowds, not just for the sheer volume of their beverage selection, but for the quality and creativity of their kitchen.

Far more than a typical bar, The Hoppy Monk operates on a philosophy of culinary excellence and genuine passion for independent brewing. This deep dive explores the core principles, the iconic menu items, and the commitment to quality that has made this establishment a decade-long staple for beer nerds and foodies alike across the Lone Star State.

The Hoppy Monk: A Profile of Excellence and Dedication

The Hoppy Monk is an independently owned and operated pub with two highly-regarded locations in Texas. It is renowned for its commitment to the craft beer community and its elevated, globally inspired pub fare. The establishment's success is deeply tied to its dedication to quality ingredients and a rotating selection of rare and unique brews.

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• Concept: Elevated Gastropub and Craft Beer Bar
• Primary Locations: San Antonio, TX (1010 N Loop 1604 E) and El Paso, TX (4141 N Mesa St).
• Owner/Co-owner: Joseph Valenzuela
• Opening History: The El Paso location first opened in December 2010, initially focusing on over 100 craft beers, scotch, and cigars.
• Signature Feature: Up to 99 Independent Beer Taps, served in the correct glassware.
• Cuisine Style: Scratch Kitchen, Elevated Pub Food, Globally Inspired Dishes.
• Other Offerings: Extensive Spirits Selection, Craft Cocktails, Ciders, and Meads.

The 99 Taps: A Temple to Independent Craft Beer

The most immediate draw for any visitor is the staggering number of taps—a commitment to keeping 99 independent beers flowing at any given time. This is not a gimmick; it is a core mission that solidifies The Hoppy Monk's topical authority in the craft beer world.

The selection is meticulously curated, often featuring rare and limited-release beers that cannot be found anywhere else in the state.

The Beer Nerd's Paradise

The Hoppy Monk prides itself on providing an experience that thrills the most dedicated "beer nerds." This attention to detail extends beyond the tap list to the service itself. Every beer is served in the correct glassware, a subtle but crucial element that enhances the aroma, flavor, and overall drinking experience.

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The San Antonio location, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary with an epic bash featuring limited-release beers from giants like Deschutes Brewery, Real Ale Brewing Co., and Jester King Brewery, proves its deep connections within the national and local brewing community.

Meanwhile, the El Paso location often highlights local brews, such as the DDH Imperial Hazy IPA and Aurellia's Mandarin Restored, a Hazy IPA with Green Tea and Mandarin Orange, showcasing the regional flavor of the Texas borderland.

Beyond the Brew: The Scratch Kitchen's Elevated Menu

What truly elevates The Hoppy Monk from a great beer bar to a premier gastropub is its "Scratch Kitchen" philosophy. The food is not an afterthought; it is a carefully developed menu of globally inspired pub food designed to pair perfectly with the extensive beer selection.

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The menu is packed with unique and memorable entities that have become local legends. This commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every dish, from appetizers to mains.

Must-Try Menu Entities for Foodies

The Hoppy Monk’s menu is a testament to culinary creativity, blending classic pub comfort with upscale ingredients. Here are some of the standout dishes and key ingredients that define their scratch kitchen:

• The Duchesse Burger: A signature item featuring Akaushi TX beef, a premium Japanese-style cattle, topped with sour ale onion jam, aged Cheddar, and organic tomato & arugula.
• Bacon Jam & Egg Burger: A rich and savory option that has become a patron favorite.
• Gochu Cauliflower Wings: A creative and popular vegetarian appetizer, often served with a Brewhouse Brown Ale batter, proving the kitchen's ability to cater to diverse palates.
• Beer Braised Rabbit Tacos Dorados: An example of the menu's elevated and unique offerings, showcasing global inspiration.
• Shrimp & Grilled Avocado Aguachile: A fresh, bright, and unexpected dish that highlights the kitchen's global reach.
• The Veggie Monk: A dedicated vegetarian option featuring a black bean-based patty.
• Monk's Cheese Board: A perfect pairing for the extensive beer and spirits selection.

The Hoppy Monk also offers a full brunch menu at its San Antonio location, available on Sundays, which further showcases its versatility and dedication to a full-service dining experience.

The Hoppy Monk's Lasting Impact on the Texas Pub Scene

Under the guidance of co-owner Joseph Valenzuela, The Hoppy Monk has cultivated a loyal following and a reputation for consistency. Its success is not just about the number of taps, but about creating a welcoming atmosphere where both families (before 7 p.m.) and serious connoisseurs feel at home.

The pub's dedication to the community was highlighted during challenging times, such as when the San Antonio location temporarily closed to partner with Community Labs for testing, prioritizing the health and safety of its staff and patrons.

The Hoppy Monk remains a vital destination for anyone seeking an authentic, high-quality gastropub experience in Texas. It is a place where the world of independent craft beer meets a sophisticated, scratch-made kitchen, setting a high bar for the entire industry.