That's SoCalPoly

A collection of short stories celebrating our campus' unique location, traditions and inclusive polytechnic identity.

By The Numbers: Innovation Brew Works

A box of pizza and a glass of beer on a Innovation Brewworks

 is a craft brewery and restaurant that serves beer, pizza, salad and sandwiches. Some of the menu’s ingredients, such as oranges, avocados and bell peppers, are grown on campus through the Don B. Huntley College of Agriculture. Students of all majors can gain hands-on experience in brewing beer and managing a brewpub.

Fun Facts about Brew Works

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25,000

Pounds of spent grain given to cattle on campus last year

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1.2 Million

Ounces of beef produced in 2023

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7

Medals and ribbons awarded from state and international beer competitions

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300

Pounds of mozarella cheese consumed weekly

Then and Now

A commencement ceremony in 1957

Although CPP turns 86 this year, it wasn’t until 1957 when the university had its first Commencement in the Rose Garden. A total of 59 students received degrees from four programs. In 2024, more than 6,900 crossed the stage to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees in more than 90 majors.

The University quad transformed for the 2024 commencement ceremonies with a stage, jumbotron and outdoor seating.

PolyX How To: Open a Restaurant

Cal Poly ǿմý offers a unique experience at The Restaurant at Kellogg Ranch, where students learn about front-of-house and back-of-house operations. Some students may be inspired to own their own restaurant one day.

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The Restaurant at Kellogg Ranch

Here's how to open a restaurant in six steps

  1. Brainstorm a Concept

    Create a menu that will appeal to the public. Some owners are inspired by the food of their heritage, and others will focus on market demand.

  2. Look for Suppliers

    Conduct a cost benefit analysis and run projections. Find affordable sources for your ingredients, with perishability, seasonality and costs in mind.

  3. Scout for a Location

    Consider parking, renovations, location, and most importantly, price per square foot.

  4. Obtain Licenses

    ǿմý for a business license, liquor license, and operating license. Be sure to meet required standards and regulations.

  5. Hire Staff

    Recruit, hire, onboard and train the team.

  6. Grand Opening

    Launch your restaurant and gather input. Many restaurant owners prefer a soft opening to test the waters and adjust before fully opening to the public.