USA, CA: Laughing Monk Brewing to open its fifth location in Campbell

A new watering hole is moving into The Pruneyard six months after Rock Bottom Brewery closed, San Jose Spotlight reported on January 22.

Laughing Monk Brewing will open its fifth location in Campbell, where Rock Bottom Brewery was housed for 30 years. Unlike its national chain predecessor, Laughing Monk is a local brewery with four locations in the Bay Area — Sunnyvale, Scotts Valley and two in San Francisco, one being a separate taproom. The brewery is known for its variety of craft beers and drinks, as well as its welcoming ambiance.

A spokesperson for Regency Centers, which owns The Pruneyard, confirmed a deal has been signed with the brewmaster. They could not say when the brewery will open.

The owner of Laughing Monk Brewing did not respond to requests for comment.

Campbell Economic Development Manager Nathan Donato-Weinstein said Laughing Monk will be a good addition to the retail center, citing its history in the Bay Area and diverse menu.

“They have been really successful in other communities with both a really strong craft beer program and food, and they’ve created these social spaces that draw a wide variety of people and families,” Donato-Weinstein told San José Spotlight. “That kind of offering fits really well at Pruneyard.”

Ken Johnson, executive director of the Campbell Chamber of Commerce, said he’s excited for the new Laughing Monk. Spaces in Campbell aren’t left vacant for long, he said, noting the city’s reputation and key entertainment areas.

He expects the incoming brewery to fit in among the eatery options at The Pruneyard.

“There’s room in this market for a restaurant like that,” Johnson told San José Spotlight. “There’s plenty of room for that, particularly in the Pruneyard.”

The Pruneyard has received encouraging attention from interested businesses, according to Donato-Weinstein. Multiple new businesses have opened or announced openings over the past few months, including Dough Zone, a popular Chinese restaurant known for its dumplings, and Pennyland Toys.

The momentum has supported new businesses and anchor tenants such as the Pruneyard Cinemas, which was close to shuttering at the end of January. The theater reached a last-minute leasing agreement with Regency Centers, enabling it to stay open.

Customers familiar with Laughing Monk are excited about the expansion. Jordan Moreno, a Santa Clara resident who used to live near The Pruneyard with her family, often enjoys dinner and drinks at the Sunnyvale location. Moreno said the new location be good for visitors.

“We love Laughing Monk, we love the food and the beer,” Moreno told San José Spotlight. “Good for them.”

22 January, 2026