The Shaky Brick

Nothing but 5 star reviews? I have no idea where the previous reviewers were, but they were not at the same Shaky Brick I was. Shaky Brick … more like the Broken Dick. I was appalled by this place.
After listening to some good music at the local hot spot, someone in our party suggested going to the Shaky Brick. Having read several favorable Unilocal reviews about the «Brick,» I thought, yeah let’s go check it out.
Upon our arrival, we were shown to our table and ordered drinks, a beer for me and soda for my date. My first beer was a moderately strong Pale Ale with assertive hop bitterness, toasty malt mouth-​feel and a grassy, dry finish. Nice beer, but it was poured by a rookie, the glass was half beer and half foam.
My date’s soda was a hand crafted, all natural root beer, sweetened with organic cane sugar, agave nectar & local California honey. She liked it, but who orders root beer at a bar, not my cup of tea. Note — I’m not sure it was the root beer that caused my date’s excessive bloating and embarrassing «noises» for the duration of our date, but there may be a correlation.
Now bring on the food! The lobster was ok, but a slightly over cooked. Other courses — oysters, tuna, froi gras wrapped in bacon (poorly done) and cheese (moldy) — were not executed to the price point. I didn’t think the food was horrible; but, you can do much better than this place, i.e., the Slanted Door or French Laundry.
For an after dinner drink I thought a nice sipping whiskey would hit the spot. Asked the server to bring a shot of the «good stuff». Didn’t get the make or model number of what they served, but this stuff was bad. This whiskey tasted «smooth». Not sure it was whiskey at all, no bite, no fire in my mouth, no paint thinner after taste, was I duped? I’m skeptical that what they served was really whiskey. Someone please show me the evidence.
This place is overrated, my advice — don’t waste your time; however, if you do go be sure to visit the bowling alley; this bowling alley’s got big lanes!

I grew up in this area and have been hearing about the Shaky Brick since I was a kid, back when my brother and his friends used to try and find it. They never did, and since I’ve been old enough to drink I’ve been on a hunt for this place; aside from its legendary acclaim, it’s always fun to one-​up the older brother.
You can imagine my excitement when the years of inquiry seemed to pay off; returning to my house one day I discovered a note on my door. «been lookin for somethin?» it said. I opened it up to find a crudely drawn map, with no particular labels other than a star in the middle with the letters «SB». I was amazed; instead of me finding the brick, had it finally found me?
It took me a while to match up the sketch to any actual map; I knew to look in Redwood, but the diagram seemed to be full of windy roads. I finally made what I assumed to be the correct match, and on Saturday night set out on my adventure. The route took me to a secluded spot deep in the woodside hills. I was a little spooked, but figured I’d be alright; I did, after all, bring a towel. As I stepped out of my car I heard a strange howling and saw light flickering up over the hill ahead of me. I climbed up, eagerly anticipating the moment of discovery…
You can’t even imagine how disappointed I was when I came out to… a bum encampment! Oh there was a party in full swing alright, but the denizens did not seem pleased at my arrival. It was as if all movement stopped, all eyes fixated on me. But still, I held on to my last shred of hope, and mumbled ‘.Is this the shaky brick?’ Laughter erupted all around me at this query, then all went silent again.
One of the grizzlier bums, wearing what appeared to have at one time been a Soviet military hat, stepped forward. «what, the FUCK, is this?» he growled. I was truly scared now and threw out the first thing that came to mind. «…obviously, you’re not a golfer?» I whimpered. At this you could feel the tension dissipate; the bums began to laugh once more, and the one standing in front of me began to dig in the pockets of his grubby coat. He pulled out a surprisingly crisp stack of papers, and handed me and ID card. It read ‘the shaky brick.’ «Well done,» he said, and instructed me on how to get to the real location.
I was slightly shaken, but it was more of an adrenalin rush, knowing I was finally this close. Plus, I was rather amused. The proprietors of this place sure are some tricksters! Pulling up to the ‘real’ address I was a bit scared there’d be another red herring waiting for me. But no! Once inside the doors I was greeted with all the wonders I’d heard about and more. The host (maybe owner?) is a wonderful, generous man… almost, ruggedly handsome one may say. His stories alone were worth the visit, but the craft beers on tap (Devil’s Canyon! mmm), amazing camaraderie, and phenomenal outdoor beer garden setup sealed the deal.
Oh man, I almost forgot, there’s an effing petting zoo! I can’t imagine how any other drinking establishment on the Peninsula could compare with the Shaky Brick. I truly hope I’ll be invited back again.

So, it’s the end of a really long winter, and me and the special lady are all going a little stir crazy. Before I know it, a road trip is called and were heading off to Reno. We took my Rodeo (pronounced Rho-​Day-​Oh!) since it’s got the muscle and the 4 wheel drive, because as the Scouts say, «Be Prepared», but I can’t say what happened on our way home could ever be truly prepared for.
I’ll summarize, you can fill in the blanks in your heads, and some of it I just can’t put to words.
Driving home over some crazy winding roads and all of a sudden my car freaks out and I have to slam on the brakes to keep from flying off the highway. I take a count of my and the little ladies appendages, check. Try to comfort the freaked out girlfriend, and pry hands off the steering wheel. It’s late, dark, quiet. I get out to check the tires. Yup, blow out, and [kick ass!] my spare is flat (Gonna talk to my mechanic about that tomorrow). I briefly survey the road, what little I can see from the single street light is not much. How do these lights get power anyways? We’re literally out in the middle of nowhere. It looks kind of like Blue Mountain Pass where all the bay area news reporters go to talk about the first snowfalls of winter. Well there’s no reporters around, but there’s still snow… In the middle of May, but whatever.
Headlights on the horizon. A semi truck on a long drive. I know because he didn’t bother to slow. Diving out of the way, cursing California for breeding the drivers it does, I come out of the snow bank and dust myself off. «What’s that?» breaks the silence. «What’s what?» I respond.
Glancing beyond the lone street lamp is what looks like an outhouse that could probably hold no more than 4 grown men. Red Neon over the door in true 40s Noire blinking out a most reassuring, «SHAKY BRICK».
«I have no idea… But I hear music, and we need a tow. Maybe it’s a phone?» With mild trepidation we venture to the Brick and open the door. This is getting long, but lets just say, it was like the TARDIS, if you don’t know what that is look it up. Actually upon closer inspection the room descended so it was plausible that the place was just below ground level. If you’ve ever been to the Mystery Spot in the Santa Cruz Mountains you might know what I mean by optical illusion.
The Brick was amazing, there was darts, and music, and a full bar lining the back. The back door lead to a beautiful outdoor sitting area complete with some of those clay fire pits, plenty of blankets, and all manner of denzens from your a-​typical frat guys to new age hippies and any other stereotype you can think of.
I spied a phone and we were able to raise a local tow company. Our 20 minute wait at the Brick was great. Good people talking of the days events, and just enough warmth to take the edge off. I got a second call from our tow truck driver that he was at my car and had it loaded. As we thanked our host and paid our tab I made a GPS note in the trusty iPhone and we headed back out the way we came.
As we were riding off with our tow truck driver we turned for one last photo… That damned outhouse was gone. I kid you not. Even now I struggle to recall all the events of the evening, and I checked my iPhone only to discover that my GPS location pointed me to Redwood City?! I know I was at least 3 hours from home, if not more. I chalked up the GPS problem to the iPhones terrible system of using cell phone towers to triangulate your position.
I was shocked when browsing my daily Unilocal I found this entry for The Shaky Brick in Redwood City! I honestly thought that I had imagined the whole thing, but after reading a few pages I am not so certain.
It took me hours to write what I remember, but even as I proof read this I feel like I left out a lot of details. It seems like The Brick is there when you need it, which is reassuring. Maybe i’ll go 4 wheeling this weekend. Maybe I’ll get lucky, my left front tire is looking a little bald.
–A.

I am in such a strange state of mind right now. I finally made it to the Shaky Brick. It leaves me speechless, but I must write this review.
I am hungover. I partied my pants off last night. We ended up closing the place down, and it was well worth it! It took me 6 months to finally get in this place! 6 months! The saddest part is that I am moving to Lake Arrowhead in 2 weeks! I can’t believe I finally found the Shaky Brick, and now I will be separated from it once again.
The Shaky Brick is the most amazing establishment on the peninsula. They have Devil’s Canyon on tap, which is awesome because the beer is fantastic and it is locally brewed in Belmont. The music is amazing. The DJ literally has anything you could possible imagine.
This place even has bowling. And, an outdoor area. They even let you bring your pets! Yes! Non-​service animals are allowed.
The ambience and general vibe of the place can’t be beat. I’ve only been living in the Bay Area for a short while, but I must say, finding this place and actually getting in was the highest achievement during my stint in NorCal.
Everybody there was hilarious and down to earth. I can’t say I’ve met so many rad patrons at any other bar. I may be moving away, but I will be back! You will know where to find me, THE SHAKY BRICK!

THIS PLACE ROCKS _​Since my last review — have not had the opportunity to visit again… alas — I sure hope for another invite!

So I’m flying home and thumbing through the coolest book of stuff you will never need … «Sky Mall» and I run across this hand written card that is stuck in the pages that urges the reader to follow the directions. I kind of chuckle, but realize it is giving me directions to a church in Redwood City that I know of and has a specific «code word» I’m supposed to tell «Father Dan.»
So, I go through life. a few months later… Not really thinking anything special about it… And my girlfriend drags me to a wedding at the same church. Who is doing the wedding??? Why it’s «Father Dan.»
So… After all the «I do» tomfoolery is over with, I start to chat it up with Father Dan. I tell him the code word, and straight out of the De Vinci Code, he gets all weird on me, starts mumbling something I assume was Latin and quickly leaves.
I’m thinking this is some practical joke that isn’t very funny to him. and kind of fee like an @ss H07e for even bringing it up… but a few minutes later, Father Dan returns and hands me an envelope with directions to the Shaky Brick. and even gives me a «ID card» of sorts to present to the owner.
So, in the car I tell my girlfriend this story and she thinks I’m some wacko myself… But… The next weekend, I get her to come with me to the Shaky Brick…
What a nice hidden surprise right here in Redwood City. Easily the best bar I have ever been to… Friendly people… Great Local beers… awesome.
So, the next time you are stuck in coach, I suggest you thumb through the Sky Mall to see if you can get your special invite!

What an amazing find! May be you’re like me, you work hard 50 + hours a week to keep the boss off your butt and a roof over your head. Or maybe you’re the type that plays hard throwing cabers around for the fun of it. Whatever group you fall into, when it’s all said and done, you just want a place where you can relax around good people and great beer without any hassles… The Shaky Brick is it.
Whether you’re into kickin’ it in the outdoor garden, listening to live music or getting involved in a W-​ii tournament, this place you can’t afford to miss.

Unbelievably this is not the mirage one might think. It’s reality turned from fantastical urban legend to an invite with the sly flash of a business card. A few weeks later during a break in the winter weather a non-​descript van pulled up outside my house and the driver handed me a blind fold. Ok there was no blindfold. But the approach to the Shaky Brick is dark and lacks signage like most unincorporated areas. My guide knew where we were going and happily enough the pedestrian welcome is easily overcome by the warmth and camaraderie once greeted by the proprietors and raucous crowd inside. Good friends, good drink and much fun was had. What more can one ask for? Written down directions next time. =) Looking forward to another invite!

It might seem strange to leave SF, with all it’s great variety of bars, to travel so far in order to visit a little watering hole like this, but there’s something about a true neighborhood bar. Maybe it’s that it always seems like i know half the people there from somewhere else. Maybe it’s that live music could break out at any time. Or maybe it’s that it seems like everybody drinks for free there. I seriously haven’t ever even heard a price for a beer, and i have my own glass with my name on it there.
It’s obvious that the owners have put their heart into this place. They must be there every single night. It’s so comfortable, and they’re so friendly, that they might as well be welcoming you into their own living room. Occasionally the house band is just a little pathetic, but you know those guys will always always get into a groove at some point in the night.
The first time i walked into ‘the brick’, Bob was on the other side of the bar. At first glance, he appears to be just your regular aging roundish guy with his hair falling out — not even that notable. But keep an eye on this character. He’s subtle and sly. He doesn’t move too fast, but he knows his way around the place and always manages to work the whole bar. By the end of the night it’s not out of the ordinary to find him surrounded by women trying to corner him. It’s hard to get a word out of the guy, but if you can manage to, I’m certain there would be some enlightening stories to be told.

So, I was with a friend and we were deciding what to do when he suggested The Shaky Brick. I tried not to seem too excited but little did he know I was dying to figure out how to get an invite to this place after reading reviews on Unilocal.In addition, over the past year three people knowing I live in Redwood City have asked me if I know a way in to this exclusive spot. I believe everyone in RWC is looking for a hot spot in town, myself included.
I am looking no further. The Shaky Brick is the best place in Redwood City to grab a drink and chilax with friends. I even made a few new friends!
What makes a good bar — staff, selection, entertainment, crowd
Staff — I think I met the bar owner. He was really friendly and knowledgeable about the beers on tap and the collection of fine scotch. He was a little busy but you can expect that.
Selection — This is why they get a «Woohoo! As good as it gets!» rating. It is hard to find good beer and if you read my reviews, I kinda like good beer. I usually give a place high rating if they have Devil’s Canyon on tap. I am a big fan! i just think it says a lot about the establishment if they take the risk of putting a lesser known handle on tap.
Entertainment — I walked around a little, there was a lot to do. I was happiest with the music selection. It was right up my alley.
Crowd — Not too often do I meet new people at a bar. Usually it is just so clicky. Not here. It was a little crowded so I hope the word is not spreading too fast about this place. Let us hope they put some type of restraints on the invites.
I feel so special to finally be in the know. I am hoping to be invited back very soon. I am tired of having to travel outside of Deadwood for a good time.

Only one of the best places to hang out. Whenever I am in the area I try to stop by. Amazing beer, friendly staff (if you like sarcasm as sharp as a razor blade, which luckily is mandatory for any place i visit), and fantastic food. Their breakfast is amazing! It’s a rare treat, but fantastic.
I highly recommend this place to anyone who likes great local beer, great conversation, and fantastic company.

The mystique about this place is probably starting to wear down as more and more people go and get invites. In fact, I’ve been twice now and couldn’t make it for a third invitation, but I haven’t risen to the ranks of being able to hand them out yet, so don’t bother asking.
They have done a great job of keeping their location off the internet though, so I’ll pay them the respect of not releasing it here.
It is a really solid bar. The invite-​only crowd adds to the camaraderie. It feels like you know everyone through a couple of degrees of separation at most, which makes it extra easy to start talking to anyone. It’s a cross between a great house party and your favorite bar.
Two things you must try if you go are the Devil’s Canyon beer and — absolutely, positively — the cojonito. It’s a «mojito with nuts», literally and figuratively. Not only unique, but absolutely delicious. I’m still daydreaming about it. I’ve had one from the regular bartender (owner?) and Earl. Both were awesome.
Also, per the one star review below, I don’t remember anyone smoking there. Perhaps it was outside only or they stopped allowing it?

There is a coolness and exclusivity about the Shaky Brick, mostly because of its private hidden vibe-​but the best part is you don’t have to be a VIP! You know the deal– all those clubs that you have to have some sort of reserved table, special pass or whatever, not here folks. This is down to earth realness at its best. You get the word about it from someone you know (or someone like me –lol), you walk in and there is no cover charge, no rope and no bouncer, you just walk in, take a seat and enjoy.
Upon walking in, it’s really cool– it’s a bit dark and has an air of intimacy. That was my favorite part. In this off the beaten path bar you feel like you are just hanging with your best buddies, even if you’ve just met. Then after you’ve got the intial impression-​the hospitable owner will proudly show you his bar and the vast amount of liquor he has– beer, regular booze, wine, pretty much anything you want– this man has it! And he’s a load of fun to boot! You will enjoy just chilling with the owner :)
After settling in and relaxing with your libation, you will find a number of things to do– there is a very large projector screen in the back part of the bar (which is located outside) and you can either watch movies, play video games or have a psychedelic light show. The sky is the limit!
And get this– they have an eclectic music collection at the Shaky Brick. Relax, kick back, sip on your fave drink and socialize while listening to great tunes. You will feel at home here, no pressure and no pretense. Just you, your drink and your buddies (whom you haven’t met yet!)
Trust me– check this place out– it’s way unique and a blast!

Talk about «where everybody knows your name!»
This bar is somewhat exlusive but worth kissing some hiney to get the in
(not that I had to lol)
Large, accomodating bar, great entertainment, great beer selection (with an impressive selection from local brewery Devil’s Canyon) and the hospitality can’t be beat. The beautfiul scenery doesn’t do anything but add to the experience so I would put it on the «must see» list for sure.

The Shaky Brick is one of those local hidden gems that if you’re lucky enough to know the right people, you just may get a special invite. It is tucked away on a dark, quiet street where you would never expect to find such a place, but once you go in you’ll see it beats all other local bar scenes. A fantastic beer selection (courtesy of Devil’s Canyon Brewery) plus whatever happens to wet your whistle, they will provide you with the best. They know their stuff and will gladly share their brewing knowledge. The bartender will treat you right, keep you entertained, and hey… easy on the eyes as well! ;) It’s all about good times here and the owners make sure to provide that with great entertainment including music (either from their state-​of-​the-​art sound system or you may get treated to a personal live session) or even a movie on their large projection screen. Most of the action takes place in an outdoor garden setting, which they supply with heating lamps so it’s always comfortable no matter what time of year it is. They also stay open a bit later than most, so no worries about that 2am last call! In fact they usually encourage another round!
Looking forward to another special event!

When I was headed to the Bay area on business, I received a text that I was invited to the Shaky Brick. I had always heard rumors of its existence and wanted to make the most of my three-​day opportunity to visit such a legendary establishment. I was not sure what to expect since it was rainy and dreary my whole drive down to the bar. Once inside, I did not care what the weather was outside because the inside was inviting and pleasant. A true breath of fresh air. It lived up to hype and every expectation was met or exceeded; from the quality of the beverages to the overall ambiance. They just introduced a new beer on tap from the Devils Canyon brewery that was made with habaneras. I never tasted such a brew and only wish something of that magnitude was available in the New York area. There was a hint of the peppers presence but was not overpowering — a great blend if I do say so myself.
The walls are filled with memorabilia and every corner offers an eye opening experience. I think the owner is Irish but was not sure. I am hoping to get an invite on my next visit and if I am lucky I can schedule to have my band play there in the near future.

The Shaky Brick offers local high end beers like Devil’s Canyon. The people I had to go thru, to get an invite, was well worth it! The outdoor bar and orchard add a nice elegant touch to the place. The owners are helpful, and knowledgeable about its history. They have an excellent sound system, darts, and live music. — A fun time will be had by all.

If I could put a sixth star I would. i received a special invitation to the shaky brick for a movie and beer tasting night last week. WHAT A BLAST. The owner is the greatest, offering locally brewed beer, including Devils Canyon and Anchor Steam, and fun times filled with lots of laughs. I hope to receive a special invite again soon, I hear the christmas in July party is alot of fun!
Cheers, and if you get a special invite for the shaky brick, I suggest you take advantage and go to the best bar in Redwood City.

Am I really the first person to review this? I hope to God I’m not breaking the code of conduct and am invited back!
What an amazing discovery! I’ve done my share of bar-​hopping around the world but I have never come across a gem as bright as the Shaky Brick!
Phenomenal!