In a visit to Barley & Hops Olde World Family Tavern, visitors will be transported back to a cozy day of European yesteryear. The sounds of clinking beer mugs, taking bites into northern Irish comfort food, and conversing with new and old friends will make patrons want to return time and again.

Coupled with dark wood interiors, a natural-hue ambience, friendly bartenders and more, genuine smiles will dawn welcomed guests as they’re given their cold beer pints. Those with a true appreciation for beer will find that the Barley & Hops watering hole in a league of its own.

"We have a very large selection of different styles of beers from different countries," said Scott Salmonsen, owner. "We serve over 250 types of beer with over 40 of them on tap." Barley & Hops particularly highlights beers from Germany, England and Belgium. These countries, Salmonsen said, are famous for their own diverse styles.

Other notable frosty beers served at Barley & Hops come from Ireland, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Scotland, Denmark and the United States. Salmonsen wants people to know that they will be tasting beers they have never heard of – it’s like taking a European beer journey.

"What really sets us apart is our beer selection," Salmonsen said. "Most Americans don’t realize how big of a role beer plays in Europe and that Belgium has more different kinds of beers per capita than anywhere else in the world."

Barley & Hops also offers potential beer aficionados "Club Cards." They include the Century Card, Buck Fifty Card, and this year, the Bicentennial Card. For every 25 beers checked off the list, Advertisement

AMCR Institute. Inc prizes like a free dinner and t-shirt are received.

And for wine drinkers, diners will find Temecula wineries on their list of choices.

Along with its beer menu, its cuisine may bring families back for more. The aromas wafting from Chef Eric Moore’s kitchen consist of homemade soups, stews, pot pies and shepherd’s pies, casseroles, and gourmet pizzas.

"We also have a few signature dishes like a Fisherman’s Stew which has clams, lobster, shrimp and scallops," Salmonsen said. Known by many to be another delicious menu item, is its certified Angus beef Whiskey Burger, drizzled with whisky peppercorn gravy, topped with crumbled blue cheese and deep-fried crispy onions.

The children’s menu has 12 choices, including mini pizzas, fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.

For sports enthusiasts, the tavern boasts five big flat screen televisions running major league football, basketball, baseball, soccer games and more.

And The Draft Room at Barley & Hops can be used for private functions and holds up to 80 guests. From private business meetings to birthday parties, this room, is equipped with electronic darts, foosball, and jukebox.

Russian River Week is marked for February.

"We’ll be featuring Pliny the Younger, one of the most exclusive and sought after beers in the United States," said Salmonsen, noting that this special event will last from Feb. 15 to 20.

"In Europe, people have their own hometown pub where families spend time together," he said. "I wanted to do the same here in Temecula."

Barley & Hops is at 31045 Temecula Parkway, Ste. 101 in Temecula. For more information, visit www.barleyandhopheads.com or call (951) 303-0333.