Tapped out.

The Local Taphouse (above) has been my microbeer-besotted home-away-from-home the past 5 weekends. I resigned earlier this week after my independent, self-employed mindset collided with a manager whose penchant for talking out of her a** soured my enthusiasm. Regardless, it was a wonderful experience that resulted in new friends and a behind-the-bar feel for Melbourne's nightlife. I wish the owners -- Steve, Justin & Guy -- the success they deserve.

If you're ever near the corner of Carlisle and Chapel, stop in for a pint of The Beast IPA. It'll make your knees quiver.

CORRECTION: Steve -- documentary filmmaker, international connoisseur of microbrewed beer and chief visionary of The Local's jaw-dropping reincarnation -- informs me that Justin is not, in fact, an owner. [Let me point out that Justin IS an even-tempered, subversively hilarious bloke who put in herculian hours during the pub's opening weeks.] Steve also points out that 'Son of A Beast Double IPA' will be on tap next week ... <spinal shudder>. Hopheads, rejoice!