Bristlecone Brewing Company

A new brewery on East Second Street

Bristlecone Brewing Company opened in Reno in late May 2025, taking over the former IMBIB space at 785 East Second Street. Owners Martin Barman and Matt Garcia came to the project with professional brewing experience from Alibi Ale Works.

Their opening approach emphasized an even mix of lagers and ales, with both lighter and darker beers intended to be approachable. That range gives visitors a reason to examine the current tap selection rather than expect a brewery organized around only one style.

Part of Reno’s creative community

The brewery’s collaborations extend beyond its own bar. For the 2026 TRILAB project involving the Reno Bike Project, The Holland Project and Craft Wine and Beer, Bristlecone contributed a rice lager. The project brought beer into a wider local gathering around art, bicycles and community organizations.

Bristlecone also hosted the launch celebration for Nevada’s 2026 Craft Beverage Passport. The Nevada Department of Agriculture reported attendance of more than 100 people, connecting the new brewery with a statewide program introducing visitors to Nevada beverage makers.

Beer and records

Vinyl records have a place in the taproom’s personality: the business describes a record-for-beer barter, with acceptance at the bartender’s discretion. Its published hours include afternoon and evening service throughout the week, with earlier weekend opening. The brewery’s own site is the direct source for the current schedule before a visit to the East Second Street taproom.

Contact Bristlecone Brewing Company

785 E. Second Street, Reno, NV 89502
Visit the business website

Researched October 8, 2026. Source 1 · Source 2 · Source 3 · Source 4 · Source 5. Independent researched listing; not an owner interview. For corrections or removal, email cody@702alliance.com.