The Local With Craft Beer Guru Renee Navarro

The Local: a tête-à-tête with some of the scene's hardest working heroes.

Renee Navarro is all about tattoos, hugs, and craft beer. She's a full time sales gal at Woodhouse Brewing, and one of five co-organizers of the Society of Beer Drinking LadiesIn her spare time, she takes photos of beer, cats, and the odd human. You can follow her on Twitter and IG @35mmMonkey.

Where do you live?

I live in Toronto, though my friends claim that I don't since I live north of Bloor, up in Mount Pleasant Village. 

Favourite breakfast spot?

Lipstick and Dynamite. I'm not a vegetarian or vegan but hot damn! These folks have some tasty eats. And who doesn't love being surrounded by velvet paintings while you eat?

Favourite late-night eats?

Tequila Bookworm - late at night, their small plates/dips are perfect to soak up some of the alcohol you've been ingesting for hours. Wvrst - the danger dog (a hot dog wrapped in bacon) is my jam. Both places have fantastic staff and once you're done eating, a great craft beer/cider listing to get into.

What are some of your favourite things to do in the city?

If I had more time I'd definitely hit up the island a lot more. It's great sitting by the water checking out the alternate view of the CN Tower. Take your bike with you and a small picnic and pretend you've gone further away than 20 minutes from downtown Toronto. 

Where is your go-to place for clothes shopping?

I'm horrible at shopping! If I'm not doing online shopping, I seem to be buying my shirts at beer festivals and breweries. Because I am obviously a teenaged boy trapped in the body of a beer loving lady. 

Drink of choice?

Total no brainer, beer. But I've been known to get into the whiskey on more than one occasion. 

Favourite local gallery or artist?

ANSER: Mysterious Date.

What you love about your neighbourhood?

Granite Brewery is just a short stagger from my front door. They're a great local spot and they produce some fantastic beer. Also, when I need to clear my mind, wandering through Mount Pleasant cemetery is perfect. 

What is a spot that no longer exists that you really miss?

Gypsy Co-op! Man, that place was our hang out. Fantastic food and drink and if you stayed late enough (which we always did), great music and a killer dance floor. I've been missing that place for decades now! 

Conversely, what’s a new place that you’ve discovered?

I discovered these guys through working as a beer sales rep, but The Gaslight. Such a chill place to hang out . The owners, Tim and Megan, are fantastic. It's a small spot, but they have a killer patio space in the back. 

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