Madera's new Tap House showcases local brews

MADERA, Calif. (KFSN) -- At The Tap House in Madera, craft brew takes center stage.

"Madera hasn't really had the craft beer scene here yet," co-owner Traci Franklin said. "I know a lot of young people and all ages like craft beer. We've seen the niche grow, so we wanted to open up something everyone can enjoy."

Traci and Dustin Franklin are owners of Madera's newest hot spot. The restaurant was a dream of the Navy veteran and Madera native.

"I fell in love with the restaurant industry," Dustin said. "I've been in the service industry my whole life, so that's pretty much what sparked the passion."

Dustin has brought his love of brews and good food together.

"We have 15 taps, and so we're going to have 12 beer handles and three wines, and we also have wood-fired pizza and appetizers and salads," Traci said.

The restaurant has popular craft beers as well as local breweries like Riley's and Tioga Sequoia on tap. They plan to sell beer by the glass or by the case, and they also want to showcase local wineries.

"In the beer scene, everybody is rotating right now," Dustin said. "So, every time you walk in there is something new, so we thought we'd do that with the wine too. So every four months we will have a new winery, so we're starting with San Joaquin Winery right down the street from us."

Dustin says he spent four years in the Navy and is using his military experience in this new chapter in his life.

"Leadership skills are what the military teaches you, with employees, it's helped us guide people," Dustin said.

The Tap House was able to hire more than a dozen employees to run the business. The Franklins look forward to giving Madera something they haven't had before. The Tap House is open Wednesday through Monday.