50 S.W. Division St., Bend

cruxfermentation.com, 541-385-3333

Details: Sundowner happy hour is 30 minutes before and after sunset

Deals: $1 off half-liters and snifters, $.50 off .35 liters, $2 off appetizers

When Crux Fermentation Project opened last June, it was a pretty safe bet that the new brewery’s beers would be highly drinkable. Co-founded by former Deschutes Brewery brewmaster Larry Sidor, it’s no surprise that almost a year later the brewery is turning out some of Bend’s most adventurous beers. (See: Bert Scotch Ale or the Impasse Saison.)

Arguably Crux’s best feature, though, is the warm and inviting atmosphere it has created in a former AAMCO transmission shop, which takes full advantage of its stellar view of the Cascades with a rolling garage door that can be opened or closed depending on the weather. Upcycled wood makes up most of the interior; a stained cement floor and skylights add to the upscale urban-industrial theme.

The bar plays up its glorious view, smartly dubbing its happy hour “the Sundowner,” with food and drink specials timed to the setting sun.

Happy hour beers are $4 and snifters are $6. No, it’s not cheap, but that’s part of Crux’s allure. Everything from their drinks to their view is top shelf.

— Beau Eastes