After nearly a year of slogging through permits, inspections and renovations, the beloved Papermill Creek Saloon in Forest Knolls is finally on the verge of pouring drinks again under new ownership. The plan is to have beer flowing by New Year’s Eve, with live music following soon after and a full-blown grand reopening targeted for January or February.
The last major hurdle fell on Dec. 18, when senior county health inspector Loni Ward signed off on the saloon after confirming that the dishwater hits 120 degrees and the walk-in fridge holds steady at or below 41 degrees, according to Point Reyes Light. The outlet also reports that a brand-new septic system cleared inspection, even with the back of the building sitting close to San Geronimo Creek, a detail that had triggered extra scrutiny during the permitting process.
New owner Bryan Hendon, 63, a retired firefighter and paramedic from San Anselmo, told Point Reyes Light he ran into conflicting planning guidance but refused to back off. Longtime manager and chief bartender Jared Litwin is expected to reclaim his spot behind the bar, and the Wilson family, which operated the place for 54 years, has completed the sale.
Renovations That Kept The Saloon’s Grit
Hendon opted for strategic fixes instead of a full makeover, focusing on stripping and resealing the bar, replacing tiles behind the counter and refinishing the bathroom. Much of the tavern’s rough-edged charm remains intact. The building dates to 1907, according to the saloon’s own history page (Papermill Creek Saloon), and local guides highlight its long-running music scene and central role in valley life (Marin Dish).
Why San Geronimo Creek Was Such A Big Deal
Regulators were especially cautious because San Geronimo Creek feeds into the Lagunitas watershed, home to a remnant population of Central California Coast coho salmon. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s North Coast Salmon Project identifies the Lagunitas system and its tributaries as crucial habitat, which helps explain the tight focus on septic systems and building setbacks in the area (California Department of Fish and Wildlife).
When The Music Comes Back
The saloon’s events page is already teasing the return of live music, with a lineup of local acts organizers hope to welcome back once doors officially reopen. Specific show dates will solidify after final preparations are complete. For current listings and hours, check the Papermill Creek Saloon events page on the venue’s website (Papermill Creek Saloon events)…