What started as a hobby for Misty Birchall has quickly risen into a dream job. After serving six years in the US Navy, Birchall moved back home to San Diego, started at a desk job, and went to school. During summer break of 2009, she came across a chocolate stout cake recipe, which begged the question: “Can cakes be made with other types of beer, and more importantly, with San Diego’s amazing beer?” The locals at beer bar Toronado were the first to find out. Monday nights became PubCakes’ first testing ground — they were immediately a hit.
PubCakes artfully combines two of the greatest foods on the planet, beer and cupcakes. Currently, six different PubCakes cover a wide variety of beer styles — everything from stout to hefeweizen. Birchall suggests enjoying one by pairing it with its complementary beer, which highlights the more subtle notes and flavors in both the cupcake and the beer.
“I am partnering up with Treehouse Coffee Company to open a combined storefront,” Birchall explains. Set to open at the beginning of February, “the storefront will be located on El Cajon Blvd and 72nd Street and will finally give customers the ability to order a mixed batch of PubCakes.” Stay tuned for details of a grand opening celebration. Customers can also purchase PubCakes by the dozen online or by phone. (858/952-8523, www.pubcakes.com) MIA STEFANKO
