On the southern fringe of the Wine Country, Moylan's for many locals is the beginning of Beer Country. Nationally known in beer circles, the microbrewery is renowned for its big, robust and flavorful ales. Brendan Moylan, founder of Marin Brewing Co. a few miles south in Larkspur, decided in the early 1990s that he wanted a build a second brewery from scratch closer to his home. It debuted in 1995 following a knock-down, drag-out battle with community and civic leaders who were worried about having a brewery in town. Today, with more than a dozen beers on tap created by ace brewer Denise Jones and her staff, this 15-year-old brewpub delivers a perfect compliment for any meal. The menu features items such as grilled steaks, wood-fired pizza and fresh seafood, providing food that's a notch above the traditional bar fare. In Novato, Moylan's is one of a select few certified meeting places where friends or families will congregate.