Hillside Tap Room & Eatery — Restaurant in Martinez

Love that this place is now open! Really happy for the owners and I hope this place thrives. A few pieces of constructive feedback from my most recent visit. I wish they served beer in real glassware (or something closer to). I realize it’s a breaking hazard, but at these prices I feel like it’s necessary. Froze plastic cup was great! The dogs are varied and fun! I wish the buns were toasted to add some additional texture, (would love to see poppy seeds on the Chicago dog) and the toppings are an interesting mix of classy (guac) and trashy (sleazy nacho cheese). Also, I thought the seasoning on the fries was super good (mixture of sugar and spices) but maybe have it as an option instead of the default? Anyways I have nothing but great things to say about this place and...

Let me start this off by saying that I hope this place does really well. I want Downtown Martinez to thrive and I think another eatery/taproom is a great idea. You can tell how much thought went in to the planning and renovation of this building. It’s really nice! Somehow feels brand new and like it’s been there forever at the same time. A perfect spot to have a drink and watch the trains.

Now— the food leaves much to be desired. From a business perspective— I get it. Upscale a cheap food and make a profit! This is not upscale enough though to make me feel good about dropping $40 on two hot dogs and two sides. It’s hot dogs. Also, I personally think it should be a crime to add that much sugar to a fry seasoning. But that...

The good:cute place, lots of atmosphere. The bad: we ordered 2 lunches, me a regular dog add mayo, tomatoes, guacamole and jalapeños. Hubby ordered a sausage sandwich. We shared fries, he had a soda, I had water. My guac had processed avocado that was like green paste, totally flavorless, and it was an up charge! The salty/sweet fries were weird! Hubby asked for ice, they apologized and said that they don’t have ice in the restaurant! A restaurant that doesn’t have ice!?!?!? The kicker? BOTH hot dog and sausage ere cold! Mine didn’t seem to have seen any heat! So $40.00 for cold sausage sandwiches, weird fries and a warm soda seemed a little excessive! We laughed after we left, definitely a “one and done”...