Why Locals Love Hillside Tap Room & Eatery
Nestled in the heart of Martinez, CA, Hillside Tap Room & Eatery offers a vibrant and inviting dining experience that’s perfect for casual get-togethers and spirited game-day gatherings. This lively restaurant shines with its focus on hearty American fare, elevated by thoughtful, fresh ingredients and bold flavors that keep guests coming back for more.
From the moment you step inside this charming, refurbished corner spot at 400 Ferry St, you’ll notice an atmosphere that effortlessly balances fun and comfort. The intimate space buzzes with friendly chatter and upbeat service, creating an ideal setting to relax with friends while savoring some seriously satisfying food.
The menu is a celebration of classic favorites with a modern twist, featuring a curated list of appetizers and specialties that deliver both creativity and comfort. Start your meal with the vibrant Beets & Goat Cheese salad, where peppery microgreens and a luscious balsamic reduction set a refreshing tone. Or delight in the addictive Blistered Shishito Peppers paired with sweet cherry tomatoes and creamy aioli—each bite bursting with umami and texture.
For those craving indulgence, the Fish & Chips is a highlight, boasting perfectly crispy battered fish accompanied by cool, tangy coleslaw and house-made tartar sauce that elevates every mouthful. Fans of comfort food will appreciate the rich and creamy Hickory Gouda Mac, a dreamy blend of white cheddar and smoked gouda, topped with crispy bacon and optional shrimp for an extra layer of decadence. The Sweet Chili Chicken or Shrimp Lettuce Wraps bring a refreshing Asian-inspired flair, combining romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, and a zesty soy-lime drizzle over rice—a delicious balance of heat and coolness that dances on your palate.
Salads at Hillside Tap Room & Eatery are far from ordinary. The House Salad features dark greens, ripe avocado, berries, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a house-made olive oil vinaigrette that’s light yet deeply flavorful. Alternatively, the Cobb Salad packs a satisfying punch with bacon, hard-boiled egg, bleu cheese, and fresh cucumbers, perfect for a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
One of the most talked-about aspects of Hillside is its extraordinary selection of hot dogs and sausages. According to delighted patrons like Rae Zachary and Scott Lane, the sausages are generously topped and bursting with bold flavors, while the fries come seasoned with an intriguing spice blend that keeps you reaching for one more bite. The vibe here is casual yet vibrant, making it an excellent spot to kick back with friends and enjoy a cold local beer—from hoppy flights to well-paired pours like the popular Red Trolley—that perfectly complement the robust flavors on your plate.
Despite occasional waits during busy weekends, guests consistently praise the attentive and upbeat service, making every visit feel welcoming and warm. Whether you're stopping by after a breezy stroll along the Martinez marina or looking for a lively spot to catch Sunday football, Hillside Tap Room & Eatery promises a memorable dining experience filled with local charm and unmistakable flavor.
For anyone seeking a spot that combines a fun atmosphere, thoughtful cuisine, and a truly friendly vibe, Hillside Tap Room & Eatery is a standout destination worth every bite and sip.
See the Space & Food
What Makes This Place Friendly
- Outdoor seating
- Kerbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Serves local specialty
- Sport
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Seating
- Bar on site
- Toilet
- Casual
- Cosy
- Family friendly
- Groups
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Good for kids
- Free of charge street parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Real Reviews from the Community
- Feb 8, 2026
What a cool place to watch Sunday football. Had the best polish dog with pastrami and cheese. So delicious, every last bite. Service was very upbeat and friendly. Recommended a great beer.
- Feb 5, 2026
Awesome hotdogs! Loaded with so many toppings! French fries were delicious with a spice I couldn’t quite put my finger on. Couldn’t stop eating them!! Generous portions! Service was outstanding!! Can’t wait to come back.
- Jan 25, 2026
We stopped in for some fish and chips after a walk around the marina. Would HIGHLY recommend. Every single thing we saw leave the kitchen looked delicious and the fish and chips were flavorful, crispy, and fresh. The service was friendly and attentive. The only reason I gave 4 stars is because it took 20-30 min for the food to come out. (However, it's a small place and 5 parties all came in at the same time. So I don't hold it against them).
- Jan 23, 2026
Looking for a fun and casual place, Hillside fits the bill! They have a big list of fantastic dogs and sausages on the menu! The refurbished building is an intimate fun place, the friendly staff are super helpful and you will enjoy the fun options on the menu. We had the Bacon, which is a smoked brat with cheese, bacon and onions. The fries have a delicious seasoning with a touch of sweet. My friend had one of the many micro brews in tap and I had a frozen sangria - delicious! They also have rotating flavors of frozen Froses. Check them out!
- Dec 16, 2025
My friend and I rode over to enjoy a beer flight. What a great place on the corner. Hillside provided great hospitality to us and our horses making us feel welcomed and comfortable. A fabulous selection of local beer. We loved our selection, Red Trolley was one of them. Next time we will stay longer and also buy lunch. For obvious reasons we enjoyed the tables provided outside.
- Dec 12, 2025
LOOK AT THIS MAC! LOOK AT IT! STOP READING AND LOOK SOME MORE!!! The gouda bacon mac was amazing and I would order it every day if I could. Staff was friendly, and the beer was solid for a smaller tap selection.
- Dec 8, 2025
Food was great! Amazing hot dogs and friends, but I can't justify the price. Staff were friendly! We didn't know if someone was suppose to take our order at the table or ordering at the counter when we came in. (It was ordering at the counter) The building has this old timey ambience. It's right next to a railroad, so you can see the trains passing by. Overall, it was a great resturant! I love how it's a chill place to train watch.
- Nov 26, 2025
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 will be back!